European Championship of Prehistoric Weapons Shooting

A World-Unique Championship, Between Sport and Prehistory

The European Championship of Prehistoric Weapons Shooting was born in 1990 in Mas-d'Azil, an Ariège village famous for its monumental cave which sheltered humans since the Magdalenian period, over 15,000 years ago. It was here that the Azilian culture was discovered, a transition phase between the Upper Paleolithic and the Mesolithic. In this historically rich place, the association Le Propulseur Azilien organizes a sporting competition every summer that revives the hunting techniques of our prehistoric ancestors.

Spear Thrower and Primitive Bow: The Weapons of Prehistory

The competition takes place over two days and is divided into two main disciplines. Spear thrower shooting (or atlatl) is the championship's flagship event: this hunting tool, invented over 20,000 years ago, allows a spear to be projected at high speed and over long distances, thanks to a lever effect. Primitive archery completes the program with bows made using ancestral techniques, from natural wood and without sights. Competitors, from France, Germany, Belgium, Spain, Italy, and other European countries, compete for accuracy on targets arranged in a natural course.

A Festive and Family Weekend

Beyond the sporting competition, the European Championship of Prehistoric Weapons Shooting is a true prehistory festival. The weekend opens on Friday evening with a javelin throwing class and a communal meal. Saturday afternoon features the prehistoric archery competition, while Sunday morning is dedicated to spear thrower shooting. Educational workshops allow children and families to learn prehistoric techniques: flint knapping, fire starting, and making spear throwers and ropes. The Grotte du Mas-d'Azil, crossed by the Arize river, offers a spectacular setting and a unique atmosphere.

A European Gathering of Enthusiasts

With over 35 editions to its name, the championship has established itself as the unmissable event for prehistoric shooting enthusiasts in Europe. Each year, competitors from all over Europe converge on this small village in Ariège to participate in a stage of the itinerant European championship, of which Mas-d'Azil is the historic and founding round. The event contributes to the village's tourist and cultural influence, attracting visitors curious to discover this exceptional prehistoric heritage.