Museum of the Underground World: A Journey Through Time
Saint-Remèze: A village in the Ardèche that has more to offer than you might think! Here, you will find a unique combination of nature, history, and adventure. In one single location, you can discover three top attractions: the impressive Aven Marzal Cave, the fascinating Museum of the Underground World, and the exciting Dino Zoo.
Aven Marzal: Three Prehistoric Adventures in One Location
In the heart of the scrubland of Saint-Remèze in southern France lies Aven Marzal—a unique destination where geology, early exploration, and prehistory converge seamlessly. This remarkable site brings together three distinct attractions, allowing visitors to journey from the deep interior of the Earth to the age of the dinosaurs, all within the span of a single visit.
A Descent into the Earth’s Interior
The exploration begins with an impressive underground excursion. A series of stairs leads you dozens of meters deep into a monumental limestone cavern. This subterranean realm was first systematically explored in the late 19th century by the renowned French speleologist Édouard-Alfred Martel. As you wander through the illuminated chambers, you will encounter colossal columns, as well as intricate stalactites and stalagmites—formations sculpted over millions of years by dripping water. Rich mineral deposits imbue the rock walls with warm hues of ochre and red. A true highlight of the underground route is the authentic skeleton of a prehistoric cave bear, which found its final resting place in these depths thousands of years ago.
Pioneers and Fossils at the Museum of the Underground World
Once back on the surface, the story continues at the Museum of the Underground World. This museum pays tribute to the daring explorers and scientists who, equipped with only basic tools, ventured into and mapped Europe’s darkest caverns. Through historical equipment—such as early rope ladders, carbide lamps, and surveying instruments—you can discover just how arduous and risky caving used to be. The museum also houses a valuable paleontological collection, featuring fossilized shells, rare dinosaur eggs, and the impressive skeleton of a young mammoth, offering a tangible glimpse into the fauna of ages past.
Come face-to-face with giants in the Dino Zoo
Outside, a prehistoric forest adventure awaits in the Dino Zoo. Along a shaded, 800-meter walking path—surrounded by fragrant holm oaks and junipers—stand dozens of life-sized reconstructions of prehistoric creatures. Visitors can walk right alongside fearsome predators like the Tyrannosaurus rex and encounter colossal herbivores such as the Brachiosaurus and Triceratops. Scientific information boards along the route detail the animals’ habits, diets, and the eras in which they lived, making the trail both exciting and educational for children and adults alike.
Practical information for your visit
With its diverse range of attractions, Aven Marzal is an ideal destination for families, hikers, and history enthusiasts. The park is located directly on the Route des Gorges in Saint-Remèze and pairs perfectly with an active canoeing excursion or a scenic drive along the viewpoints of the Gorges de l’Ardèche. For specific inquiries, you can reach the site by phone at +33 4 75 04 12 45. Since opening hours and guided tours vary by season, it is advisable to check the latest information and admission prices on the official website before you set off.
