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Casares Cave

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Casares Cave, located in the province of Guadalajara, is a premier site for Paleolithic rock art in the interior of the Iberian Peninsula. Its scientific importance was revealed in 1933 by Juan Cabré, who identified a vast array of engravings and paintings. While most of the artwork dates to the Magdalenian period, approximately 13,000 to 15,000 years ago, the cave also holds significant evidence of Middle Paleolithic occupation by Neanderthals. Los Casares is unique for its rare depictions of fish and human-like figures shown in unconventional poses, sometimes interpreted as swimming or diving. The artists utilized sharp flint tools to carve detailed images of animals, including horses, deer, and woolly rhinoceroses, into the limestone walls. This site is particularly valuable because it proves that sophisticated prehistoric art was not limited to coastal regions. Officially declared a National Monument in 1935, the cave provides critical insights into the social and spiritual life of inland hunter-gatherer societies.

Location: Galicia, Spain
Top sights: Cueva de los Casares · Cueva de la hoz
Nearby: Medinaceli (25 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	2	3	6	10	14	19	22	22	17	12	6	3
Rain mm	31	29	41	50	45	33	14	17	25	50	44	29

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Casares Cave is only accessible on guided tours to protect the prehistoric engravings. Advance booking is required.

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Typical hours

Guided tours are usually offered on weekends and holidays, with exact times varying. More slots are available in summer months.

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Photography

Photography is generally prohibited inside the cave as flash can damage the engravings. Flash-free shots may be allowed by arrangement.

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Time needed

The guided tour lasts about 1 hour. Add extra time for travel and the walk from the parking area to the cave.

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Combine with

Combine the visit with the nearby Alto Tajo nature park or the historic village of Atienza. The region is handy for hiking.

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Getting there

The cave is in a remote location and only reachable by car. From Guadalajara, follow the CM-210 then unpaved roads.

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Insider tip

Book the tour in advance by phone or email as places are very limited. Wear sturdy shoes and warm clothing as the cave is cool.

Geography

Coordinates

40.97050, -2.31680

Facts

The prehistoric artwork was scientifically discovered in the year 1933.
The primary engravings date back roughly 13,000 to 15,000 years.
The cave shows evidence of Neanderthal presence from 50,000 years ago.
It features unique anthropomorphic figures often interpreted as divers.
The site was officially designated a National Monument in 1935.
Over 150 distinct animal and human figures have been identified in the cave.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Takwa Ruins1 km · SEExplore →

Manda Island4 km · EExplore →

Lamu9 km · SEExplore →

Lamu Port (LAPSSET)9 km · SEExplore →

Shanga Ruins19 km · NEExplore →

Pate Island Ruins19 km · NEExplore →

Siyu Fort22 km · EExplore →

Medinaceli25 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Casares Cave (2)

Cueva de los Casares🏺 historical

Archaeological site featuring Paleolithic rock engravings in Guadalajara province.

🌐 alto-tajo.com

Cueva de la hoz📍 landmark

Limestone cave with prehistoric rock paintings in the gorge of the Linares River.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What can be found in this cave?

It contains Paleolithic engravings depicting scenes of daily life, animals, and even fish.

Where is the Cueva de los Casares located?

In Riba de Saelices, in the province of Guadalajara, within the Alto Tajo Natural Park.

Is the cave open to the public?

Visits are strictly regulated and must be booked in advance at the Riba de Saelices town hall.

Which era is represented here?

Mainly the Upper Paleolithic (approx. 30,000 years ago), but there are also remains of an Arab fortress above the cave.

Are there paintings or only engravings?

The site is primarily known for its engravings, which are among the most important in inland Spain.

Casares Cave: where is it located?

Casares Cave is located in Galicia, Spain.

Casares Cave: what is there to see?

Highlights include Cueva de los Casares, Cueva de la hoz.

Casares Cave: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Casares Cave: why is it worth visiting?

The Casares Cave, located in the province of Guadalajara, is a premier site for Paleolithic rock art in the interior of the Iberian Peninsula.

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