Catherine TASCA, Minister of Culture and Communication, and Michel DUFFOUR, Secretary of State of Patrimony and Cultural Decentralization, announce the discovery of a decorated cave at Le Buisson de Cadouin in the Dordogne region.
This cave was discovered by M. Marc Delluc, of the Spéléo Club of Périgueux, during a speleological survey of the area. The cavity contains parietal representations (engraved animal figures and finger tracings), cave bear hollows and claw marks, and human remains.
After an expert evaluation by the Direction Régionale des Affaires Culturelles d'Aquitaine and the Centre National de Préhistoire in Périgueux, the cave was declared as an historic monument on November 23, 2000.
The work of exploring, securing, and delimiting the cavity will be supervised by the Conservation Régionale de l'Archéologie d'Aquitaine.
Catherine TASCA and Michel DUFFOUR report that the first measures of protection and security were taken in full respect of the legislation concerning decorated caves. They are pleased to announce this new discovery, which will enrich the archaeological heritage of our country.

December 8 2000