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The Roc-aux-Sorciers, or Sorcerers' Rock, Discovery Centre was set up in 2008. The centre used two different approaches for recreating the site meaning you can learn all about the prehistoric carved frieze, which is nowadays closed to the public for conservation reasons.
The first is a full-sized replica of the entire inner wall of the natural rock shelter. Brought to life through a multimedia commentary and soundtrack experience. It highlights the thirty visible carvings and conjures an image of the daily life of a family living in a shelter like this one during the prehistoric Magdalenian period.
The visitor is then invited to experience the second replica up close. This is exhibited outside in daylight, in conditions as near as possible to those of the original site. The pinpoint accuracy of the reproduction means it is possible to make out every detail of the carvings and even touch them.
Extract from guided tour by Mathilde Lucas : "You are now in front of a frieze that is unique to Roc aux Sorciers; a sculpture of three women, the Venuses. The first, which is here, has a very rounded stomach, highlighted by this circular arc and how the surface of the rock is carved out in this particular spot. To the side, you can see a stomach that is still very rounded and an open pubis, suggesting a woman in labour. And the third woman, with a flat stomach, is perhaps a woman who is already a mother or a young girl. This therefore illustrates the circle of life.
The sculptures are very detailed and well proportioned. They have muscles, joints and even tendons that lead to the ergots and cloven hoofs with a coronet band.
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Guided tours and a host of educational activities are offered on site meaning visitors can spend the day immersed in the prehistoric Magdalenian period of the original sculptors.
