Can you imagine enjoying the Altamira Caves in the middle of the Sahara Desert? This year edition of FiSahara make this possible with the projection under the stars of Altamira. This film, directed by Hugh Hudson (director of Chariots of Fire) and starring Antonio Banderas and Rupert Everett, tells how a nine year old Maria Sautuola, and her father, Marcelino (Banderas), an amateur archaeologist, discover something truly extraordinary, something that will change the history of mankind: Altamira’s paintings. one of the most important prehistoric works in history.
Since this year theme of FiSahara 2020 is #BreakingTheSilence, Altamira brings a perspective that is rarely associated with this great archaeological discovery. Far from providing honor and glory to Sanz de Sautuola, this extraordinary contribution to History ran into the indifference and derision of the scientific community at that time. Despite his efforts to prove the truth of the discovery, Sautuola was accused of forgery by the Frenchman Émile Cartailhac, one of the highest authorities in Prehistory who, years later, would recognize the work of the Spanish archaeologist.
That was not the only opposition faced by Sanz de Sautuola for discovering the considered “Sistine Chapel of rock art”: The Catholic Church sees the claim of ten thousand year old art as an attack on Biblical truth by Godless rationalists.
From April 14 to 19, during FiSahara 2020, in the Ausserd refugee camps we will enjoy the wonderful landscapes of Cantabria and its cave paintings, cradled by the melodies of the soundtrack composed by Mark Knopfler and Evelyn Glennie. Are you going to miss it? Book your place now!
