Altamira and Jose Antonio Lasheras

In Memoriam

News of the death of Jose Antonio Lasheras, director of the Altamira Museum in Spain, in a traffic accident has saddened the world of rock art and archaeology, among many others.

Known as 'the man who saved the cave', Lasheras was an expert in Palaeolithic art.

Director of the Altamira Museum since 1991, he also championed the Altamira full-scale replica and Research Center in 2001. 

Widespread condolences refer to him as 'the great defender of Altamira', recognizing his ability to find a balance between preservation and enjoyment of the art.