Propellant shooting

Immerse yourself in prehistory at the Grottes du Cerdon, learning an ancient hunting technique: spear throwing with an atlatl. This immersive experience reveals how prehistoric humans hunted animals with ingenuity and precision. Led by passionate instructors, this fun and educational activity invites you to handle this atlatl and understand its importance in the survival of early humans.

Iconic prehistoric weapons: spear and atlatl

Spears and atlatls are weapons that preceded the prehistoric bow and were used by the Upper Paleolithic people. During this period, these weapons allowed hunters to track large animals. These tools have been found in several caves and archaeological sites.

What is a spear and an atlatl?

Before the invention of the bow, humans used the spear, a long wooden spear usually tipped with flint or bone, to hunt large animals like reindeer. To improve the range and power of their throws, they developed the spear-thrower, a tool with a hook that allowed them to launch spears with greater force. This human invention was revolutionary at the time, notably because it completely changed hunting practices. Thanks to this ingenious extension of the body, spear-throwers were formidable weapons. Generally speaking, a spear-thrower is a stick 30 to 50 cm long, and a spear is a projectile at least 1 meter long.

Thanks to this innovation, prehistoric humans could hunt animals more effectively, find food sustainably, and thus ensure their survival. Even though it is much more difficult to master than a bow, its use is very enjoyable.

The Grottes du Cerdon Activity: Spear Throwing with an Atlatl

At the Cerdon Caves, you’ll have the unique opportunity to try spear throwing with an atlatl and relive the techniques of our ancestors, combining skill and precision!

An Immersion in Prehistoric Hunting

This activity is an immersive workshop dedicated to spear throwing. This unique experience introduces you to the art of the spear thrower, a key invention of the Upper Paleolithic period, approximately 20,000 years ago. Thanks to the prehistoric atlatl, an extension of the arm equipped with a hook allows the spear to be launched with greater force. Participants will first discover how this tool works, and then, following a demonstration, each person will practice handling this wooden weapon. The objective will be to hit a target, which will be represented by artificial animals. Through this activity, the prehistoric spear thrower becomes a true journey through time, revealing the adaptability of our ancestors to their environment. Accessible to everyone from 6 to 99 years old, the prehistoric spear thrower workshop at the cave offers a fun and educational 45-minute immersion. Located in an area sheltered from the sun and rain, this activity allows you to discover the spear thrower, regardless of the weather. An ideal experience for adventurers of all ages!

This activity with this prehistoric weapon is a perfect complement to a cave visit, combining discovery and hands-on experience. Families and history enthusiasts alike will be delighted! It’s important to arrive early to make the most of your day between visits and workshops.

Spear throwing with spear throwers at the Grottes du Cerdon is a unique opportunity to relive the techniques used by humans to hunt animals. This fascinating immersion allows you to see the daily life of Paleolithic hunters through ancestral know-how. Don’t miss this activity that combines history, archaeology and fun in the great outdoors!