Sidrón Cave
Monument Cave site with important Neanderthal fossil discoveries
In Asturias, Sidrón Cave is an archaeological site where Neanderthal remains were found; researchers and interested visitors study exhibits in nearby museums and guided tours of the area.
Sidrón Cave (Cueva del Sidrón) is a karst cave site in Asturias, northern Spain, known for its rich Pleistocene fossil deposits and especially for a large assemblage of Neanderthal skeletal remains. Archaeological and palaeontological work at the cave has produced skeletal material and associated fauna used in studies of Neanderthal biology and behaviour.
The excavated deposits contain bones and teeth from multiple individuals along with lithic and faunal remains; researchers have used these materials to investigate diet, population structure and ancient DNA. The site is primarily of scientific and palaeoanthropological interest rather than a developed tourist attraction.
The cave is set within the karst landscape of Asturias and has been subject to controlled excavations and conservation measures led by Spanish research teams.
- Neanderthal remains: Has produced remains of multiple Neanderthal individuals and provided material used in genetic and palaeobiological studies of Neanderthals.
- Karst cave site: Located in the Asturias karst region, the site is a cave system with stratified deposits used by researchers since the late 20th century.
Tips for Visiting Sidrón Cave #
- Cueva del Sidrón is open only for supervised visits to protect the Neanderthal remains - book a guided tour well in advance as places are strictly limited.
- Start at the local interpretation/visitor centre (check with Asturias heritage authorities) to confirm tour dates, meeting points and any seasonal closures.
- Photography inside the cave is normally restricted and groups are kept small to reduce contamination - follow the guides' instructions closely.
Best Time to Visit Sidrón Cave #
Prefer late spring through early autumn for the most reliable access and services, and contact site operators ahead of time because cave visits and research access can be limited.
Weather & Climate near Sidrón Cave #
Sidrón Cave's climate is classified as Warm-Summer Mediterranean - Warm-Summer Mediterranean climate with mild summers (peaking in August) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 3°C to 23°C. Moderate rainfall (903 mm/year).
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 11°C and lows of 3°C. Regular rainfall (87 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
February
February is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 4°C. Regular rainfall (80 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
March
March is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (71 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
April
April is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 7°C. Regular rainfall (93 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
May
May is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 10°C. Regular rainfall (84 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
June
June is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 13°C. Moderate rainfall (50 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
July
July is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 15°C. Moderate rainfall (48 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
August
August is the warmest month with highs of 23°C and lows of 15°C. Moderate rainfall (49 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
September
September is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 13°C. Moderate rainfall (58 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
October
October is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 10°C. Regular rainfall (95 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
November
November is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 6°C. The wettest month with 96 mm of rain and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
December
December is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 4°C. Regular rainfall (92 mm) and mostly overcast skies.