The Loja Cave and Educational Centre

Both the cave and the educational centre are situated in the village of El Mazu, Peñamellera Baja, on the banks of the River Craes-Deva. It is not a large cave; it consists simply of a platform overlooking the river, behind which lies an antechamber leading to a long gallery – narrow in places – which disappears into the depths of the earth before re-emerging into the open air.

It contains a Magdalenian archaeological deposit and various artistic engravings on its walls, including depictions of animals, amongst them several bovids and a horse. It is recognised as one of the classic sites of Palaeolithic rock art in Asturias, a fact which has earned it international recognition.

The Educational Centre was opened in 2002 and is spread over two floors. With a simple design, it blends into the surroundings using local materials such as stone, wood, roof tiles and clay. The ground floor features a mound of riprap stone and is designed to mitigate the effects of flooding caused by the rising waters of the River Cares-Deva. The main theme of the Centre centres on the region’s rock art, particularly that found in La Loja Cave; it also offers brief introductions to archaeology and prehistory at local, regional and European levels. The main aim of this educational space is to familiarise visitors with the prehistoric art of the area, spark their interest and encourage them to explore other caves containing rock art, such as El Pindal, Tito Bustillo and El Buxu.

Visits to the Centre are guided, and after approximately thirty minutes – the usual duration of the tour of the entire centre – visitors proceed to La Loja Cave.

Visits are guided. They last around 45 minutes. 35 people per day. Children under the age of 7 are not permitted.