Nestled along the rugged Cantabrian coastline, very close to the Basque Country, lie two remarkable natural wonders – the Covalanas and Cullalvera coves.

The Covalanas Cove was first discovered in 1903, when a local farmer stumbled upon the entrance to a hidden cave system. Further exploration revealed the presence of stunning prehistoric cave paintings, dating back over 15,000 years. These remarkable artworks, created by the region’s earliest human inhabitants, depict a variety of animals, including deer, horses, and bison, and provide a unique window into the lives and artistic expressions of our Paleolithic ancestors.

The Cullalvera Cove, located just a short distance from Covalanas, was discovered in 1952 and has since become renowned for its own impressive collection of cave paintings. The artworks found within this cove are believed to be even older than those at Covalanas, with some dating back as far as 20,000 years. The paintings here feature a diverse array of subjects, from abstract geometric designs to detailed representations of animals and human figures.

Both the Covalanas and Cullalvera coves are now protected as part of the Cueva de Covalanas Natural Monument, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site that recognizes the immense cultural and scientific value of these prehistoric treasures. Visitors to the area can explore the coves and their cave systems through guided tours, which provide an opportunity to marvel at the ancient artworks and learn about the rich history of the region.