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Europe, as understood today, is a relatively young geographical formation. It is essentially a peninsula, framed by oceans that have influenced its development over millions of years. Geological processes have sculpted its landscapes and laid the groundwork for a complex web of cultures and peoples. The human story began during an Ice Age, with early humans migrating from Africa, mixing with Neanderthals, and gradually populating the continent.
The caves of France, particularly the Chauvet Cave, are stunning reminders of early European creativity, featuring intricate paintings made around 30,000 years ago. These early forms of art suggested movement and life, marking a significant leap in human cognitive abilities — a "cultural big bang."