The Bédeilhac cave is located on the commune of the same name, in Ariège, 15 km south of Foix.
Its "opening" is located on the side of the mountain in the massive Soudour, nearly 700 m altitude, dug in limestone.
The cave is more than 2000 m long, with galleries. Discovered in 1773, it was the subject of many explorations that allowed the discovery of wall paintings and engraved objects, proving its occupation by hunters from 15 000 years before our era.
Classified Historical Monument in 1929, the Bédeilhac cave is used as a warehouse by a French aeronautic factory in June 1940 then by the German troops who repair planes there. As a result, the entrance to the cave was flattened and in 1972 a passenger plane landed on the site. A replica of this device is now exposed.
In addition to the vast entrance, the visit allows you to admire galleries and rooms with stalagmitic concretions, modeling and testimonies of prehistoric rock art (painted bison, clay engravings). Objects discovered during the explorations are also exposed.
The cave is owned by the town and is visited every day from April to the end of Toussaint holidays and weekends until December 24. Free visit or guided tour by reservation. Price: from 5.50 to 9 euros. Family Pass: 24 euros. Information on +33 5 61 05 10 10.
