Les Grottes Petrifiantes
About
Les Grottes Pétrifiantes de Savonnières, located in the heart of the Indre‑et‑Loire department, offer visitors a unique underground adventure where geology and history intertwine. The attraction is comprised of two main grottoes – an older, Roman‑era cavity and a more recent addition discovered in 1947 – that have been carved through centuries of water erosion and tuffeau limestone. Inside, the walls are adorned with naturally petrified plants, taking several months to a year to form, giving the space a surreal, almost other‑worldly appearance. Artifacts ranging from Roman pottery and mills to medieval gravestones lie scattered throughout, providing a tangible link to the region’s past. Accessible from 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. year‑round, the caves are open to the public and remain a popular destination for families, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike.
Highlights
- Petrified Plants
- Roman Artifacts
- Dual Grottoes
Must-See Areas
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At a glance
- Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes