The renowned Norwegian architecture firm Snøhetta, which designed the internationally acclaimed Lascaux IV cave art center in France, has been honored with the prestigious Houen Foundation Award. The ceremony was attended by former French President François Hollande and Norway's Minister of Culture, marking a significant recognition for the firm's innovative approach to heritage preservation architecture.

The award-winning building, designed to give the impression of an incision in the ground or a horizontal fault line, represents a masterful integration of modern architecture with ancient cultural heritage. Snøhetta's landscape building concept has successfully housed the International Center for Cave Art, better known as Lascaux IV, since its inauguration on December 10, 2016, when François Hollande served as the very first visitor to the facility.

Nearly nine years after that historic opening and following visits by over three million tourists, former President Hollande returned to Montignac-Lascaux in the Dordogne region as a neighbor. The now-Deputy of Corrèze made a surprise and discreet visit to attend the presentation of this prestigious award to Snøhetta architects.

The Houen Foundation Award represents one of Norway's principal distinctions in the field of architecture and construction. Established in 1891 by businessman Anton Christian Houen (1823-1894), this historic prize recognizes exceptional contributions to architectural excellence and innovation.

By creating the Lascaux installations, Snøhetta's architects have successfully highlighted and preserved a unique cultural heritage site. Their design approach demonstrates how contemporary architecture can serve as a bridge between ancient art and modern visitor experience, allowing millions of people to connect with prehistoric cave paintings in a carefully controlled environment.

The recognition comes as tourism officials in the Black Périgord region continue to address visitor management challenges. André Barbé, Director General of Semitour, recently provided an initial assessment of the summer season during a visit by members of the Regional Economic, Social and Environmental Council (CESER) to Lascaux IV, while outlining strategic perspectives for sustainable tourism development in the area.