Visitors to the National Museum and Research Center of Altamira can participate in prehistoric technology workshops, offering a unique opportunity to learn about the tools and techniques used by early humans. The museum also hosts a permanent exhibition, 'Times of Altamira', which showcases objects not only from the Altamira cave but also from other palaeolithic caves in the Cantabria region.
The New Altamira Cave, also known as the Neocave, is a significant feature of the museum. This artificial replica of the original caves was constructed to protect the original caves from damage caused by a large influx of visitors. The Neocave allows visitors to experience the cave's unique features and prehistoric paintings without causing harm to the original site.
History & Anthropology Nature & Natural History Archaeology Historic house
#1 History & Anthropology in Santillana del Mar #1 History & Anthropology in Cantabria #3 Nature & Natural History in Cantabria #1 Archaeology museums in Cantabria #1 Historic houses in Cantabria #62 History & Anthropology in Spain #26 Nature & Natural History in Spain #13 Archaeology museums in Spain #36 Historic houses in Spain #107 Nature & Natural History in Europe #73 Archaeology museums in Europe
November to April:Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sundays and holidays, 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
May to October:Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Sundays and holidays, 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Open holidays:April 17 and 18; August 15; October 12; November 1; December 6.
Closing days:Every Monday throughout the year; January 1 and 6; May 1; June 27; September 16; December 24, 25, and 31.
Avenida Marcelino Sanz de Sautuola, s/n, Santillana del Mar
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National Museum and Research Center of Altamira has 1 rating.
The National Museum and Research Center of Altamira in Santillana del Mar, Spain, offers visitors a comprehensive look at prehistoric art and life. The museum's main attraction is the Neo-Cave, an exact replica of the original Altamira Cave, which houses some of the world's most significant Paleolithic cave paintings. This reproduction allows visitors to experience the ancient artwork without risking damage to the original site.
The museum does an excellent job of contextualizing the cave art through its exhibits on prehistoric life and the history of the excavations. Many visitors appreciate the interactive displays and the use of modern technology to enhance the learning experience. The museum's layout is well-organized, guiding visitors through different periods of prehistory.
While most visitors find the Neo-Cave impressive, some express disappointment at not being able to see the original cave. However, this is widely understood as a necessary measure for preservation. The museum provides clear explanations about the reasons for this decision.
The staff is generally described as knowledgeable and helpful, though some visitors mention that more English translations would be beneficial for international tourists. The museum's location in the picturesque town of Santillana del Mar adds to the overall experience, allowing visitors to combine their museum visit with exploration of the charming medieval town.
Some visitors feel that the entrance fee is a bit high, especially for families, but most agree that the experience is worth the cost. The museum can get crowded during peak seasons, so visiting during off-hours or seasons is recommended for a more relaxed experience.
Overall, the National Museum and Research Center of Altamira offers a valuable and educational experience for those interested in prehistoric art and human history. It successfully balances the preservation of an important historical site with public access to knowledge about our ancient past.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.
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