Cueva del Valle | |
 Cave entrance | |
  Cave del Valle location in Cantabria, Spain | |
| Alternative name | La Viejarrona |
|---|---|
| Location | Rasines,Cantabria,Spain |
| Coordinates | 43°17′55″N3°25′10″W / 43.29861°N 3.41944°W /43.29861; -3.41944 |
| Type | Archaeological site |
| Length | 60 km (37.28 mi) |
| History | |
| Founded | c. 7000 BC |
| Periods | UpperMagdalenian |
| Associated with | Azilian |
| Site notes | |
| Discovered | 1905 |
| Excavation dates | 1905, 1996-1998 |
Cave del Valle (Spanish:Cueva del Valle,The Valley's Cave), locally also known asLa Viejarrona (Old Girl), is located nearEl Cerro Village in the municipality ofRasines inCantabria, northern Spain.[1] The cave is the source of theSilencio River, a tributary of theRio Ruahermosa, which in turn is a tributary of theAsón River. Notable for its prehistoric, but particularly for itsspeleologic significance as it is recognized as one of the longest cavities in the world. The site is very popular amongcavers, who have explored a total of over 60 km (37.28 mi) so far.[2]
Although situated in the renownFranco-Cantabrian region, the discovery of prehistoric rock paintings has never been reported. In 1905, a priest namedLorenzo Sierra discovered the first objects, tools and artifacts that account for human occupation as early as 7000 BC. Documented areAzilian harpoons and scrapers, UpperMagdalenian spear points and other bone tools. Stone tools include chisels and various types of scrapers.[3] Latest excavations were made from 1996-1998. A perforated and decorated stick of archaeological interest was found at this site, but is now lost. However, theNational Archaeological Museum retains a copy and there exists another pierced pole, preserved in theRegional Museum of Prehistory and Archaeology of Cantabria, although of less importance than the lost specimen as it is not decorated.[4]
The cave of the valley is recognized as one of the longest explored caves in the world with more than 40 mi (64.37 km) yet explored. The site is, apart from professional speleologists, also well known among sport - and hobby practitioners ofcaving.[5][6][7]
