Driving Inside the Earth: Grotte du Mas d'Azil Is the Only Road Through a Cave in France
Located in the Ariège department in southwestern France, the Grotte du Mas d'Azil is a 500-meter long tunnel dug by the Arize River in the Ariège Pyrenees. It’s one of the few roads in the world that runs through a cave.
How Long is the Grotte du Mas d'Azil?
The road running through the cave is Route Nationale 119 (RN 119). This paved road passes through a 420-meter long and 50-meter high natural tunnel, created by erosion over thousands of years. The remaining cave system is only a fraction of what once existed. Today, the Arize River still flows through the passage, and during floods, it fills much of the cave floor.
Prehistoric Significance of the Grotte du Mas d'Azil
The cave has served as a shelter for humans and animals for thousands of years. Prehistoric humans used the cave during the Magdalenian and Azilian periods, and numerous excavations have revealed weapons, tools, and painted pebbles believed to be some of the earliest forms of written communication. These rounded pebbles, painted with geometric designs using iron oxide, remain a mystery. Later, during Roman persecution, early Christians took refuge in the cave, as did the Cathars during the Albigensian Crusade and Protestants during the siege of 1625.
How Old is the Grotte du Mas d'Azil?
At the end of the 19th century, the first archaeological excavations began. The discoveries here helped define the Azilian Age, a prehistoric period named after the cave. This makes the Grotte du Mas d'Azil a type site—a location that gives its name to a specific cultural period.
Is the Road Through the Grotte du Mas d'Azil Paved?
Yes, the road is fully paved. The speed limit is 30 km/h, and vehicles over 3 meters in height are not allowed. Despite the cave being lit along the edges, headlights are required when driving through. While it’s possible to drive across, there is no parking inside the cave. A parking lot is available outside the cave entrance, and a footpath leads into the cave. The Tour de France has passed through the Grotte du Mas d'Azil.
Visiting the Grotte du Mas d'Azil
The Interpretation Center, located within the passage, offers an exhibition about the cave’s history and archaeological findings. Guided tours are available, allowing visitors to explore the show cave where prehistoric rock drawings and artifacts were discovered. It is recommended to book tickets online due to complicated opening hours. The ticket includes access to the Interpretation Center, the show cave, and the Musée de la Préhistoire, located in the nearby village. Some important findings from the excavations are displayed in this museum, while others are housed at the Musée des Antiquités Nationales near Paris.