The treasure of prehistoric art, discovered in 1985 by diver Henri Cosquer, is finally accessible to the public. We tell you the incredible story of its discovery, the three decades of study of the cave, and take you behind the scenes of the three-year reconstruction project.
The Legacy of Cosquer Immortalized
At the Villa Méditerranée in Marseille, divers and enthusiasts can now admire the decorated underwater cave. Cavities, reliefs, engravings, and drawings have been patiently reproduced by a team of enthusiasts.
Visual and Historical Immersion
Visitors venture onto a water-bordered walkway. The building offers welcome shade, with a breathtaking view of the J4 maritime esplanade, the Major Cathedral, and the MuCEM. A trawler named Cro-Magnon also participates in the journey. Henri Cosquer recovered it in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie, Vendée, and restored it to resemble his former dive boat.
« Cosquer Méditerranée » is the new must-see scientific and cultural attraction in Marseille. The Villa Méditerranée, designed in 2013 by Stefano Boeri and Ivan Di Pol, houses a faithful reconstruction of the prehistoric cave and a permanent exhibition. Geneviève Rossillon, president of Kléber Rossillon, emphasizes that this site aims to preserve a threatened prehistoric legacy, to show an inaccessible decorated cave, and to raise awareness about climate change.
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