The Caves of Lascaux are a complex of caves located in southwestern France, famous for their prehistoric cave paintings. Discovered in 1940, these artworks date back approximately 17,000 years and depict various animals, including bison, deer, and horses. The paintings are considered masterpieces of Upper Paleolithic art and provide insight into the lives of early humans. The caves are not open to the public to preserve the delicate artwork, but a replica, known as Lascaux II, was created nearby for visitors. The original caves are a UNESCO World Heritage site, highlighting their cultural and historical significance.