Aurignac and the Comminges in the Haute-Garonne NAMESAKE OF A HUMAN PERIOD Aurignac: The Beginning of studies in prehistory research and the Aurignacian melting pot In the valley so renowned for its rock shelter, the musée-forum is developing and employing new didactic prehistory research techniques at Aurignac. Along side the exhibit of extensive collections (Aurignac, Tarté, Téoulé), this ranking museum »Musée de France« has defined the beginning of prehistory research. The rock shelter at Aurignac was excavated by Edouard Lartet in the year 1860. Next to mammoth and cave bear bones he also discovered prehistoric implements made from stone and bone that substantiate the existence of ante-diluvian humans. (Illustration right: ABRI D'AURIGNAC / Split base points) Split base points Split base points THE »MUSÉE-FORUM« LETS HISTORY COME BACK TO LIFE As a center for knowledge exchange, it is the innovative concept of the musée-forum in Aurignac not only to explore and communicate the adventure and originality of Aurignacian life with its art and innovations, but also to present contemporary academic debates and their results. Museum, park, footpath and rock shelter submerge the visitor into the world of the Aurignacian. The view on the Pyrenean snow-covered summits is reminiscent of the ice age climate with which our inventive ancestors had to contend with. The greatly anticipated new opening of the musée-forum in Aurignac is planned to take place in 2008. (Illustration right: GROTTE DE TARTÉ / End scraper) Pendant