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Roque Saint Christophe
One of the largest troglodyte cities in the world
La Roque Saint-Christophe
A magnificent place to visit with family.
Our guide Jeremy took us on a journey through time with an evident passion for this place. We will keep wonderful memories of it.
5 reasons to visit La Roque Saint-Christophe
- A journey through time:Walk the ground where our Cro-Magnon ancestors found refuge 55,000 years ago. Explore the rock shelters, wander through the ancient fort, and discover the site of the impregnable medieval settlement.
- A unique troglodyte site :La Roque Saint-Christophe is the largest troglodyte complex in the Vézère Valley and in Europe. Admire the ingenuity of the people who built their homes, workshops, and fortifications there.
- An immersion in nature : Enjoy an exceptional natural setting, with breathtaking panoramic views over the Vézère Valley. La Roque Saint-Christophe is a haven of peace and nature, ideal for a family or friends’ getaway in all weather and throughout the year.
- Activities for everyone : Admire reconstructions of medieval lifting machines and attend demonstrations. During school holidays and summer, numerous activities take place on the site and at the foot of the cliff at no extra cost.
- An impregnable refuge :La Roque Saint-Christophe played an important strategic role throughout history. Explore the fortifications, guard posts, and remains of this impregnable refuge that sheltered entire communities during times of conflict.
Our partner Gouffre de Proumeyssac has been awarded the Qualité Tourisme, NF Environnement, and Tourisme et Handicap labels (hearing and cognitive disabilities).
Suspend yourself above an aerial “Boulevard of Humanity”…
Between Montignac-Lascaux and Les Eyzies, the monumental Roque Saint-Christophe overlooks the Vézère from the height of its 80 metres, sheltering 55,000 years of human life since Prehistoric times.
The highlight of the visit is the Great Terrace, also known as the “Boulevard of Humanity”: a 300-metre-long rock shelter suspended around forty metres above the ground. It inspires both emotion and wonder. The site is open all year round and can be visited in all weather conditions, as it is protected from both heat and rain.
But these numerous cavities are not merely a mineral formation, as the cliff conceals extraordinary wildlife and birdlife within its vegetation: crag martins, western jackdaws, peregrine falcons, and kestrels glide through this wild setting, greeting visitors with a swoop or a cry.
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A cliff that bears witness to history
It was in 976 that the construction of the troglodyte fort and settlement of La Roque Saint-Christophe was ordered. It was a troubled period marked by wars, during which the strategic position of the cliff overlooking the valley was highly coveted. Today, visitors admire its exceptional panorama as a jewel of the landscape, but at the time, the elevated position of the cliff guaranteed security through observation of enemy movements.
Its troglodyte dwellings, carved into the limestone, have sheltered humanity for 28,000 years. At every turn, the remains of this occupation tell the story of mankind’s adaptation to the environment. Beware of the guarded fort entrance and the murder holes, admire the semi-troglodyte church, and see if you can identify the safe carved into the rock. Do not forget to look for the former location of the port.
Your immersive journey into the heart of this Historic Monument is self-guided, thanks to educational interpretation panels. During the season and school holidays, prehistoric or medieval reenactments, workshops several times a week, a medieval chivalry event at the foot of the cliff, guided tours, and nocturnal walks four evenings a week during summer are offered. A 3D film awaits you all year round in its dedicated space, revealing the secrets of its geology and habitat while stimulating your imagination.
A family-run and environmentally conscious site
It was after the colossal clearing work carried out by visionary Gabriel Touron that La Roque was revealed to the public in 1938, freed from the vegetation that had covered it. Saved from oblivion, this giant still belongs to the Touron family. Jean-Max Touron ensured the site met safety standards for visitors and developed the museography to make the visit engaging and accessible. His daughter Marie-Luce then took over, alongside her own daughter Sophie, continuing to enhance the “Old Rock” while placing emphasis on environmental preservation.
Such a site requires protection measures worthy of its scale. Awarded the NF Environnement Sites de Visite label since 2016, La Roque Saint-Christophe is also an LPO Bird Refuge, a member of the Vézère Valley eco-charter, and currently pursuing CSR certification to improve both internal and external management. La Roque is also recognised as a Destination of Excellence and certified Tourisme et Handicap (hearing and cognitive disabilities).
VIP Offer
Suspended breakfast at La Roque Saint-Christophe
From 8am to 10am, La Roque Saint-Christophe exceptionally opens its doors at dawn.
Alongside an ornithologist guide, discover the species living on the cliff and observe their morning habits. At daybreak, bird activity is particularly abundant.
Then, the medieval drum winch is set in motion to hoist your breakfast, to be enjoyed overlooking the still peaceful valley.
Booking and rates
Reservations available on our website. From 10 participants, €46.50 per person.
Organisation
Available for groups or private individuals from 10 participants for the experience to take place.
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An inspiring… and living heritage
This spectacular site is not only a journey into the past: it also inspires the present. Its enchanting setting, between rock and greenery, invites contemplation and reflection, offering an experience that is both educational and emotional.
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Musique Des Origines
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Tips for a successful visit
Download the children’s visitor guide:
It makes the visit fun and interactive for younger visitors, with games and information adapted to their age.
Take part in the workshops:
Learn about prehistoric music, flint knapping, or medieval cooking.
Attend the night-time show:
In summer, be amazed by the sound and light show projected onto the cliff, a magical and unforgettable experience.
Enjoy the picnic areas:
Specially designed picnic areas allow you to enjoy lunch on site in complete tranquillity.
Join the treasure hunt:
A treasure trail is available for children, with a collector’s badge to win at the end of the route.
Answers to your questions
- Are you open all year round?
Yes, La Roque Saint-Christophe is open 7 days a week, including public holidays, except on 25 December.
- Are animals allowed?
Yes, dogs are welcome provided they are kept on a lead.
- Is there a restaurant on site?
Yes, a snack restaurant offers regional dishes and refreshments from April until the end of the autumn school holidays.
- Can the site be visited with a pushchair?
No, the visit is not recommended with a pushchair due to the steps and uneven terrain. A baby carrier is recommended.
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