Discovery of engravings 1920 (≈ 1920)
By Abbé Amédée Lemozi.
1920-1935
Archaeological excavations
Archaeological excavations 1920-1935 (≈ 1928)
Lead by Abbé Lemozi.
28 juin 1993
Historical monument classification
Historical monument classification 28 juin 1993 (≈ 1993)
Protection of the site and its cavity.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
Parcel B 360 of the archaeological site for the soil, the basement and consequently all the cavities situated below the said plot: classification by order of 28 June 1993
Key figures
Abbé Amédée Lemozi - Discoverer and searcher
Found the engravings in 1920.
Origin and history
The cave of Sainte-Eulalie is a prehistoric cave in the Lot department, in the commune of Espagnac-Sainte-Eulalie. It belongs to a private owner and is not accessible to the public. This archaeological site is remarkable for its two superimposed galleries, whose superior contains 28 animal representations and 31 engraved signs, dating from the upper Solutrean or the middle Magdalenian. These works include reindeer, horses, ibex, and other animals, accompanied by signs often associated with figures.
The cave was discovered in 1920 by Abbé Amédée Lemozi, who carried out excavations until 1935. His research revealed remains of Magdalenian habitat in both galleries, as well as traces of human occupation. The larger lower gallery also served as a resurgence during heavy rains. In 1993, the site was classified as historical monuments, protecting its soil, basement and all cavities under Parcel B 360.
The parietal engravings of the cave of Sainte-Eulalie bear witness to the prehistoric art of Quercy. Among the animals represented, some such as the bear and the boar were partially erased. The 31 signs are either linked to or interceded with animals, providing an overview of the artistic and symbolic practices of Paleolithic societies. This site is a significant example of regional parietal art, studied and documented in specialized publications such as Gallia prehistory (1973).
