Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

Rochereil Cave, also spelled Rochereuil, is a major archaeological site located in Grand-Brassac, in the Périgord (New Aquitaine). Located northwest of the Dordogne, on the banks of the Dronne River and close to the eponymous mill, it bears witness to a human occupation during the Magdalenian era (circa 17 000–12 000 BC) and Azilian era (circa 12 000–10 000 BC). The excavations revealed traces of burials, including those of a child dated Magdalenian and of adults/adolescents attributed to the Azilian.

The first explorations, conducted at the beginning of the twentieth century by M. Féaux and the Marquis de Fayolle, were followed by more rigorous campaigns under the direction of P.-E. Jude, then from 1935 to 1939 by Dr. Paul-Émile Jude. This work documented the prehistoric occupation of the site, rich in artifacts and human remains. The cave was classified as historical monuments on 1 April 1952, recognizing its heritage importance.

Since 2011, a new study programme, led by Patrick Paillet, has relaunched research through thematic prospecting and a collective project. This site illustrates the transition between the Upper Paleolithic and the Mesolithic, providing valuable insight into funeral practices and the way of life of the region's prehistoric populations.

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