Nestled at the foot of the cliffs, the Thoys II shelter is a small rock shelter that served as a refuge for prehistoric human communities. This discreet site, sheltered from the elements and the passage of time, is gradually revealing its secrets thanks to archaeology.
First excavated by Robert Vilain, a researcher at the CNRS and a leading figure in regional archaeology, the site has recently been the subject of renewed interest. In 2024 and 2025, the APSR (Archaeology, Prehistory between the Saône and Rhône) association conducted two excavation campaigns, each lasting 15 days.
During this visit, you will discover the site and get a sneak preview of the latest results from the 2025 campaign, which was completed very recently. This is a unique opportunity to follow the latest developments at an archaeological site currently under study and to understand how the clues left in the soil can be used to reconstruct the lifestyles of our distant ancestors.
A wonderful journey into the past, close to the site and those who bring it to life.
Meet in front of the Arbignieu town hall to organize carpooling to the access road to the shelter.
This visit is organized by the association Archéologie Préhistorique entre Saône et Rhône as part of European Heritage Days.
During this visit, you will discover the site and get a sneak preview of the latest results from the 2025 campaign, which was completed very recently. This is a unique opportunity to follow the latest developments at an archaeological site currently under study and to understand how the clues left in the soil can be used to reconstruct the lifestyles of our distant ancestors.
A wonderful journey into the past, close to the site and those who bring it to life.
Meet in front of the Arbignieu town hall to organize carpooling to the access road to the shelter.
This visit is organized by the association Archéologie Préhistorique entre Saône et Rhône as part of European Heritage Days.
