Marseille is one of the most beautiful cities in France. The port city boasts incredible views of its breathtaking coastline and delectable bouillabaisse. Besides that, it enables tourists to dive into the remote prehistoric times with an intriguing visit to the Cosquer Cave. Planning a Cosquer Cave visit?
Here's everything you need to know to book your tickets and head to this underwater treasure.
Discovering The Hidden Wonders Of Cosquer Cave
Cosquer Cave is a submerged marvel discovered thousands of meters from the sea level close to Marseille's Calanques, which illustrates human life as recent as 27,000 to 19,000 years ago. The entrance to the cave is now several meters below sea level due to millennial rises in sea level, which adds mystique and allure to this ancient site.
It was first discovered in 1985 by a diver named Henri Cosquer, but it was not until 1991 that the cave's actual importance was realized. The cavern stretches hundreds of meters inside the limestone rock, and only half remains above water. More than 500 wall paintings and engravings miraculously survive in the moist conditions within the interior and provide rich access to the artistic expressions and cultural activities engaged by Upper Palaeolithic peoples.
How To Reach Cosquer Cave
To visit Cosquer Cave, you must first travel to the exact location where the Cosquer Cave entrance is situated along the cliffs near Marseille. Guided tours safely access the specific location of the Cosquer Cave, adhering to safety measures and providing deep and rich information about the cave's history. The Cosquer Cave is located underwater, it can be seen through controlled submergence guided by professionals.
They will provide special gear and pre-dive briefings to prepare you for the cave. The adventure begins outside the cave, as they embark on a boat trip along the picturesque Marseille coast to reach the dive site. Divers at all levels find it safe and enlightening due to the careful planning and supervision, which also preserves the archaeological value of the cave, allowing visitors to explore its ancient wonders.