Paleosite

About

Located just a short drive from Saintes in rural Charente‑Maritime, the Paleosite invites visitors to step back over 39,000 years and walk in the footsteps of Neanderthal Pierrette. The site blends a state‑of‑the‑art indoor museum with an outdoor archaeological park, offering interactive exhibit spaces, daily live demonstrations and hands‑on workshops that bring prehistoric life to vivid reality. Whether you’re a curious traveler, a school group, or a history enthusiast, the Paleosite’s immersive atmosphere, expertly guided reconstructions and family‑friendly activities ensure an unforgettable journey into the deep past. Inside, the “Camp de Base” recreates the daily life of a Neanderthal community, while the large screen rooms portray the region’s climatic and environmental changes. Outside, the partially excavated “La Roche à Pierrot” site gives guests the chance to explore authentic burial sites and artifacts in an open‑air setting. After the main tour, visitors can enjoy a meal at the on‑site Archéo Bistrot, which offers a terrace with panoramic views and a menu featuring local products. The Paleosite is open seasonally from April to November, with operating hours aligned to regional school holidays. A single entry ticket grants access to all exhibits and daily animations; workshops and the restaurant can be booked separately by phone or email. An average visit lasts about three to four hours, so arriving before 3 pm will let you experience the full program without rushing.

Highlights

• Interactive Museography
• Daily Prehistoric Animations
• Family‑Friendly Workshops
• Reconstruction of Neanderthal Habitats
• Archaeological Site "La Roche à Pierrot"

Must-See Areas

Good to Know

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 3 hours 30 minutes