New objects of both natural and artificial origin are annually entered into the UNESCO list. The received status of cultural heritage ensures the protection of these objects, contributes to the development of tourism in countries where unique attractions are located. This year, the UNESCO list has been replenished with 26 new sites. Among them was the oldest cave ever discovered on Earth. Its age is estimated at 32,000 years.
The Pan d'Arc cave (Grotte Chauvet-Pont d'Arc) is located in the south-central part of France in the chalk plateau along the Ardèche River. Well-preserved rock carvings have been found on the walls of this ancient monument of primitive culture. When creating them, according to experts, the techniques of painting, engraving, and three-dimensional graphics were used. Figures of bison, bears, mammoths, rhinos, snow leopards and some other animals are drawn here with amazing anatomical precision.
The mystery and uniqueness of this cave lies not only in its age (32,000 years), but also in the fact that it is the only UNESCO cultural heritage site that will never be presented to the general public. The cave was discovered about 20 years ago, access to it is prohibited to everyone except specialists.
It is believed that the preservation of the ancient drawings in their original form was ensured by a landslide that sealed the entrance of the cave about 20,000 years ago. Experts have fears that human penetration into the underground sanctuary will lead to the development of mold microorganisms that will destroy the unique rock art of ancient people.
These precautions have a practical rationale. In the forties of the last century, another ancient cave, Lascaux, was discovered on the territory of France. Numerous excursions to this monument of primitive creativity led to damage to most of the wall paintings due to the formation of fungal infections. Today, the entrance to the Lasko cave is also closed to the public.
The French authorities promise that by the end of 2014 an exact copy of the unique Pan d'Arc cave will be created. Here tourists interested in history can get acquainted with samples of primitive art.
