Take a journey back to prehistory with Cantabria and its caves

“Open Sesame!” shouted Ali Baba. The great rock opened, and before his eyes appeared a cave filled with gold and jewels of immense value.

Whether with a large map or a GPS, caves like this can only be found in fairy tales. However, we may not be aware of the priceless caverns our country holds—treasures worth more than any diamond.

Specifically, we are talking about Cantabria: dozens of caves featuring prehistoric rock art that have survived from the Paleolithic era to the present day. A treasure for the region that, in some cases, has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

More than 30,000 years old, many of these caves still contain paintings created in prehistoric times. These artworks have been preserved because they remain underground, protected from rain, sunlight, and wind.

Nomadic peoples drew typical animals of the era on the cave walls, such as mammoths, primitive lions, and cave bears. They used the protrusions and indentations of the rock to give relief to their paintings and even painted animals on top of one another to create the impression of a moving herd.

As a prime example, we find one of the crown jewels: the Altamira Caves. Described by some as the “Sistine Chapel” of prehistoric art, they are located in the municipality of Santillana del Mar. They were discovered in 1868 by a hunter when his dog became trapped, although he did not attach much importance to the find. It was in 1876 when Marcelino Sáenz de Sautuola, an amateur paleontologist, discovered the paintings. More precisely, it was his daughter who spotted them and exclaimed: “Look, Daddy, oxen!” A masterpiece of prehistoric art that today can only be visited by 35 people per day for a limited period, in order to preserve it and prevent deterioration caused by tourism.

El Pendo. Photo:turismodecantabria.com

But it is not the only one. Within the group known as Altamira Cave and Paleolithic Cave Art of Northern Spain, a designation granted to 18 caves in 2008, is El Pendo. It boasts one of the finest prehistoric collections, including the famous ceremonial staff.

Also within this group is the Cave of Hornos de la Peña. What makes it unique is that it contains only engravings, one of the most complete collections in the Cantabrian region. Particularly noteworthy is an engraved horse on the exterior due to its great age and because it is one of the few outdoor engravings still preserved along the northern coast. A narrow corridor takes visitors back in time, where, alongside depictions of horses, goats, aurochs, and bison, a striking human figure stands out—naked and with arms raised.

Finally, between the municipalities of Valdáliga and Rionansa lies El Soplao. Although it contains no prehistoric paintings, the quality and quantity of its geological formations (speleothems) make it unique on a global scale. Its formation dates back to the Mesozoic era, and it has been open to the public since 2005.

Photo:elsoplao.es

These four caves are only a representative sample of Cantabria’s outstanding collection. We could go on endlessly listing the spectacular caverns found throughout the region: Cullalvera, Fuente del Salín, Chufín, Porquerizo, Las Aguas, Sovilla, La Meaza, Monte Castillo, La Estación, Los Marranos, and many more.

After following this prehistoric route, we need a place to rest at the end of the day. Vincci Hotels offers you the perfect accommodation. Vincci Puertochico 4* Santander will provide the relaxation you need after spending the day exploring rocks and stalactites. Located in the center of Santander, it also allows you to discover the city and make the most of your stay. You will experience both its modern urban side and its historic charm.

Overlooking the bay and facing the city’s waterfront district, Vincci Puertochico 4* Santander stands out for its exceptional location. You can enjoy tapas and sharing plates in the Lounge Bar, relax on its terrace, or simply unwind in your suite while gazing out at the sea.

Cantabria and Vincci are waiting for you.

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