The Lascaux Caves are a complex of caves located in southwestern France, famous for their prehistoric cave paintings. Discovered in 1940, these artworks date back to around 17,000 years ago and depict various animals, including bison, deer, and horses. The paintings are considered masterpieces of Upper Paleolithic art and provide insight into early human life. The caves are not open to the public to protect the delicate artwork from damage. Instead, a replica called Lascaux II was created nearby, allowing visitors to experience the art without harming the original site. The caves are a UNESCO World Heritage site, highlighting their cultural significance.