Tucked away in northern Spain is one of the country’s most important prehistoric art sites. This Upper Palaeolithic cave complex holds paintings dating back approximately 36,000 to 13,000 years.
Today, access to the original cave is heavily restricted for conservation reasons, but visitors can still experience a detailed replica and an accompanying museum that bring this extraordinary chapter of human history into focus.
Spain's most important cave art site
Cuevas de Altamira, or the Altamira Caves, located in Santillana del Mar, are considered one of the most significant examples of prehistoric art in Spain. The complex dates to the Upper Palaeolithic period.
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the caves contain paintings and engravings that depict bison, horses, deer and human hands. The artistic quality and realism of these works set them apart within European rock art.
Discovery and early controversy
The caves were discovered in 1868 by a hunter named Modesto Cubillas. In 1879, Marcelino Sanz de Sautuola and his daughter María identified the paintings inside the cave.
At the time, many scientists accused the paintings of being falsifications. It was not until the early 20th century, after similar discoveries in other caves, that the artworks were accepted as authentic.
Preservation and restricted access
Due to deterioration caused by mass visitor numbers, the original caves were closed to the public in 2002. Access is now severely restricted, with only a limited number of visits permitted on special occasions. This decision was taken to preserve the delicate paintings.
Visiting today: the Neocueva and Museum
Opened in 2001, the Neocueva is a detailed replica located just a few metres from the original cave.
It recreates both the paintings and the atmosphere of the original interior. The visit includes information on Palaeolithic life, painting techniques and the importance of the site.
Situated next to the Neocueva, this museum offers permanent exhibitions focused on prehistoric societies. Displays include archaeological tools, decorative objects and bone remains.
How to get there
The cave complex is located in Santillana del Mar, approximately 30 kilometres from Santander.
- By car, it's around 30 minutes from Santander.
- By public transport, bus services connect Santander and Torrelavega with Santillana del Mar.
- The nearest train station is Santillana del Mar, with connections from Santander and Torrelavega.
Tickets, prices and opening hours
Tickets can be purchased at the box office or online. General entry costs €3, and reduced entry is €1.5.
Opening Hours
November to April
- Tuesday to Saturday: 9:30–18:00
- Sundays and holidays: 9:30–15:00
May to October
- Tuesday to Saturday: 9:30–20:00
- Sundays and holidays: 9:30–15:00
Living in Santillana del Mar
Beyond the cave complex, Santillana del Mar is a medieval town with an international reputation linked to both the caves and its historic centre. Its cobbled streets and stone houses regularly place it among the most beautiful towns in northern Spain, thanks to its carefully preserved historic core.
It sits in Spain’s least visited coastal region, which shapes daily life here. The pace is slower, tourism is present but not overwhelming, and the wider area remains more understated than other parts of the country’s coastline.
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