Cave of Altamira and Paleolithic Cave Art of Northern Spain
total of 17 Paleolithic Decorated Caves have been inscribed as an extension of the Altamira Caves, inscribed in 1985. The property will now be inscribed as the Altamira Caves and Paleolithic Cave Art of Northern Spain. The property represents the culmination of Paleolithic cave art, which developed throughout Europe, from the Ural Mountains to the Iberian Peninsula, from 35,000 BC to 11,000 BC. The caves are exceptionally well preserved due to their deep depths, which are protected from external climatic influences. The caves are listed as masterpieces of creative genius and the earliest artistic masterpieces of humanity. They are also listed as outstanding testimonies of a cultural tradition and outstanding examples of an important stage in human history.