News.Life

Vienna Archaeologists Unearth Mass Grave of Ancient Warriors from Roman Era Battle

Unknown ancient rome, archaeology, military, military history and wars, warfare

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1CatHW" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1CatHW.jpg"/>

 VIENNA (AP) — While excavation work was underway last October to refurbish a soccer field in Vienna, workers stumbled upon something extraordinary: a mass grave containing intermingled skeletons from the 1st century Roman Empire. The remains are believed to be those of combatants who were part of battles involving Germanic tribes.


 On Wednesday, following an archaeological assessment, specialists from the Vienna Museum conducted their initial public display of the burial site, which they associated with "a significant military occurrence" and presented as proof of the earliest documented combat in that area.


 One hundred twenty-nine individuals' remains have been verified at the location within the Vienna area of Simmering. Excavation crews additionally discovered numerous displaced bones and suspect that the overall victim count exceeds 150—a finding unprecedented in Central Europe.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1CajMo" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1CajMo.jpg"/>

 Regarding Roman military conflicts, there are no similar discoveries involving combatants," explained Michaela Binder, who headed the excavation project. "Large battlegrounds have been uncovered in Germany with numerous weapons. However, discovering remains of deceased soldiers is unparalleled throughout all documented periods of Roman history.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1CarbX" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1CarbX.jpg"/>

 Roman soldiers usually underwent cremation until the 200s AD.


 The burial site where the remains were placed indicates a hurried or chaotic disposal of bodies. Each skeletal specimen inspected exhibited evidence of trauma—especially to the skull, trunk, and pelvic regions.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1Carc2" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1Carc2.jpg"/>

 They exhibit numerous distinct battle injuries, making an execution unlikely. This place clearly resembles a battleground," stated Kristina Adler-Wölfl, who leads the Vienna city archaeology division. "These individuals sustained cuts from swords, lances, as well as damage from bludgeoning weapons.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1Cawba" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1Cawba.jpg"/>

 All the victims were males. The majority fell within the age range of 20 to 30 years, and they typically exhibited strong dental hygiene.


 The Carbon-14 analysis indicated that the bones were from around 80 to 130 AD. This dating was corroborated with historical records of artifacts discovered in the tomb, such as armor, cheekpieces from a helmet, and the specific nails utilized in Roman military sandals called caligae.


 The strongest hint was provided by a corroded dagger of a kind that was used exclusively from the midpoint of the first century through the beginning of the second century.


 Ongoing research has revealed that only one victim has been identified as a Roman soldier. Scientists are hopeful that DNA and strontium isotope analyses may provide more information about these combatants and their allegiances.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/video/AA1Cawbn" data-reference="video"/>

 "The current leading theory suggests that this is linked to Emperor Domitian's Danube campaigns, which took place between 86 and 96 A.D.," Adler-Wölfl stated.


 The city archaeologists stated that this find also indicates the initial indications of the establishment of a settlement that would later grow into the present-day Austrian capital.


 ___


 The Associated Press writer Jamey Keaten from Geneva provided the contribution.

Vienna Archaeologists Unearth Mass Grave of Ancient Warriors from Roman Era Battle

Unknown ancient rome, archaeology, military, military history and wars, warfare

VIENNA (AP) — While excavation work was underway last October to refurbish a soccer field in Vienna, workers stumbled upon something extraordinary: a mass grave containing intermingled skeletons fro…

Ancient Garden Unearthed Beneath Jesus' Burial Site Confirms Biblical Account

Unknown archaeologists, archaeology, christianity, christians, religion

Archaeologists
 digging under the
 Church of the Holy Tomb
 in
 Jerusalem
 have discovered indications of an olden-day garden that correspond with
 biblical descriptions
 .


 Many
 Christians
 believe
 The church is where Jesus
 was laid to rest and it remains a significant issue till this day
 pilgrimage
 site.


 Currently, the finding of 2,000-year-old olive trees and grapevines is thought to support the descriptions in the Gospel of John regarding the location of Jesus' crucifixion and burial.


 As stated in the Gospel of John, “At the spot where he was crucified, there was a garden, and in this garden, there was a new tomb in which no one had ever been placed.”


 "The archaeological plant remains we've discovered have proven particularly intriguing for us, especially when considering the details provided in the Gospel of John, which was penned or compiled by someone well-acquainted with Jerusalem during that era," stated Professor Francesca Romana Stasolla to The Times of Israel.


 The Gospel describes a verdant patch of land between the Calvary and the tomb, which we recognized as these farmlands.


 Excavations have subsequently taken place as the churches anticipate large numbers of pilgrims during the Easter festivities.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1C9Vz4" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1C9Vz4.jpg"/>

 The 2022 initiative marked the initial significant
 restoration
 Since the 19th century and led by a professor from Sapienza University of Rome.


 The restoration needed approval from all parties involved.
 Roman Catholic
 , Armenian and Greek Orthodox caretakers. Additionally, it required an Israel Antiquities Authority license.


 Professor Stasolla mentioned that due to the renovation work, the religious communities agreed to permit archaeological excavations beneath the flooring.


 The group discovered strata from the Iron Age beneath the basilica, which included artifacts such as ceramics, oil lamps, and soil specimens.


 The existence of artifacts predating Christianity indicates that the area evolved gradually from a quarry, then turned into farmland before becoming a burial ground.


 The Independent stands out as the globe’s premier source of unbiased journalism, offering worldwide news, insights, and examination tailored for those with an independent mindset. With a vast international audience comprising people who appreciate our reliable perspective and dedication to fostering constructive transformation, we continue to thrive. Today, fulfilling our purpose—driving meaningful progress—is more crucial than ever before.

Ancient Garden Unearthed Beneath Jesus' Burial Site Confirms Biblical Account

Unknown archaeologists, archaeology, christianity, christians, religion

Archaeologists digging under the Church of the Holy Tomb in Jerusalem have discovered indications of an olden-day garden that correspond with biblical descriptions . Many Christians believ…

Penemu Senjata Batu Kuno: Misteri Usia 50.000 Tahun dari China

Unknown archaeology, culture, history, news, science

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1pI6sJ" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1pI6sJ.jpg"/>

 
 DIWIDA
 
 - Temuan mengagetkan ditemukan di lokasi arkeologi Longtan, berada di bagian baratdaya Tiongkok, membongkar asumsi baru tentang perkembangan evolusi manusia. Arkeolog mendapatkan peralatan batu dengan menerapkan teknik Quina — suatu cara membuat alat batu unik Eropa — yang dapat ditanggal sekitar 50.000 sampai 60.000 tahun silam.


 Temuan ini menguji pandangan tradisional yang menyatakan bahwa area di Asia Timur selama Zaman Paleolitikum Tengah merupakan daerah dengan sedikit variasi dalam perkembangan kebudayaan maupun peningkatan teknologi.

<h3>
 Apa Itu Teknologi Quina?
</h3>

 Teknologi Quina merujuk pada suatu metode pembuatan peralatan batu yang telah diketahui melalui sejumlah penemuan arkeologis di Benua Eropa, khususnya dalam konteks komunitas Neanderthal. Karakteristik utamanya ialah pisau pengeruk (scraper) yang cukup tebal, kurang proporsional, bersudut tajam, dan sepertinya selalu direnovasi ulang. Peralatan semacam itu umumnya dipergunakan untuk memproses material-material seperti tulang, rambut randu, ataupun kayu.


 Hingga saat ini, teknologi Quina belum diketahui ada di luar benua Eropa. Karena alasan tersebut, kemunculan sistem Quina dalam bentuk lengkap di lokasi Longtan merupakan temuan yang amat menakjubkan dan tanpa parallel di wilayah Asia Tenggara.

<h3>
 Tantangan Terhadap Pandangan Lama
</h3>

 Sejak lama, para ilmuwan memandang Zaman Batu Lumer tengah di Asia Timur -- jeda waktu sekitar 300.000 sampai 40.000 tahun yang lampau -- sebagai era dengan kemajuan budaya dan teknologi yang terbilang perlahan. Di sisi lain, Afrika dan Eropa melihat periode tersebut sebagai fase penting bagi evolusi manusia modern serta bermacam-macam populasi prasejarah termasuk Neanderthal dan Denisovan.


 Namun, temuan studi terbaru dari University of Washington, yang dipublikasikan di jurnal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences tanggal 31 Maret, saat ini mengejutkan pandangan lama itu.


 Penemuannya sungguh mengejutkan pandangan kami terhadap daerah itu pada waktu itu," ujar Ben Marwick, seorang arkeolog dan guru besar dari Universitas Washington yang juga merupakan salah satu kontributor dalam riset ini. "Hal ini mendorong pertanyaan baru: Apa saja hal lain yang masih tertinggal untuk ditemukan? Bagaimana penemuan ini dapat merombak pemahaman kita tentang keberadaan manusia serta perkembangannya di kawasan ini?

<h3>
 Migrasi atau Mandiri?
</h3>

 Salah satu pertanyaan penting yang timbul dari hasil penelitian tersebut adalah: mengapa teknologi khas Eropa dapat berkembang di China?


 Para ilmuwan saat ini mencoba memastikan apakah hal ini merupakan akibat perpindahan penduduk dari Eropa menuju Asia yang secara bertahap membawa teknologi tersebut, ataukah ini adalah bukti kreasi independen—yang mana grup manusia di Cina mungkin telah menyempurnakan teknologi sejenis tanpa adanya interaksi langsung dengan Eropa.


 "Kami berharap mengetahui apabila teknologi ini berkembang dari metode lokal yang telah ada sebelumnya, ataukah tiba-tiba hadir tanpa adanya prekursor. Bila tak ditemukan bukti peralihan, bisa dipastikan hal tersebut memiliki asal-usul eksternal," terangkan Marwick.


 Inovasi ini pun menggambarkan perkembangan dalam metodologi riset arkeologi di Cina. Sebagaimana dikatakan oleh Marwich, salah satu faktor yang membuat teknologi Quina akhirnya ditemukan saat ini ialah karena para ahli arkeologi di Cina kian banyak mengekspos dirinya kepada publikasi serta teknik studi dari negara lain. Di samping itu, laju dan frekuensi penyelidikan arkeologi di Negeri Tirai Bambu tersebut turut melonjak naik.


 Dia menyebutkan bahwa anggapan lama yang mengasumsikan sedikit sekali perubahan budaya di Asia Timur dalam ribuan tahun akhirnya mulai diragukan. "Anggapan tersebut sudah cukup mapan, sehingga para peneliti cenderung tidak mencari bukti yang dapat membantahnya," jelas Marwick. "Namun saat ini, semakin banyak ilmiah yang berani untuk merombak pemikiran tersebut."


 Marwick juga mengakui bahwa banyak aspek dari arkeologi bergantung pada nasib baik. Akan tetapi, tahap krusial selanjutnya ialah mencari jejak-jejak orang-orang yang tinggal pada periode bersamaan dengan peralatan Quina di Longtan.


 “Hal itu dapat membantu menjawab pertanyaan besar: Apakah perkakas tersebut diciptakan oleh manusia modern layaknya kita, ataukah oleh spesies Homo Sapiens prasejarah lain?" katanya. "Sebelumnya, kami tidak pernah menggali fosil Neanderthal di kawasan Asia Tenggara. Tetapi jangan tertutup kemungkinan untuk menemui jejak Denisovan, atau bahkan spesies Homo Sapiens asli yang masih menjadi teka-teki bagi para peneliti."


 Dengan temuan ini, para ilmuwan saat ini menghadapi potensi bahwa sejarah umat manusia di Asia Tenggara ternyata jauh lebih beragam dan rumit dari apa yang telah dipikirkan sebelumnya. Apakah melalui migrasi, inovasi lokal, atau hubungan antar populasi manusia prasejarah, tempat Longtan membuka cara baru bagi pemahaman tentang awal mula serta proses perkembangan diri kita.

Penemu Senjata Batu Kuno: Misteri Usia 50.000 Tahun dari China

Unknown archaeology, culture, history, news, science

DIWIDA - Temuan mengagetkan ditemukan di lokasi arkeologi Longtan, berada di bagian baratdaya Tiongkok, membongkar asumsi baru tentang perkembangan evolusi manusia. Arkeolog mendapatkan perala…

Oldest Known Human Face Unearthed: Ancient Bones Revealed in Spanish Cave

Unknown africa, archaeology, culture, europe, fossils

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AMopp" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AMopp.jpg"/>

 The bone pieces discovered in an old Spanish cave are from the most ancient human face found so far in Western Europe, according to researchers.


 The fossilized remnants consist of the left cheekbone and upper jaw of an adult from an extinct human species that inhabited and perished on the Iberian Peninsula roughly between 1.1 million and 1.4 million years ago.


 This finding indicates that at least two types of early humans inhabited the area during the early Pleistocene epoch, when the cave was located amidst lush woodlands teeming with fauna and crisscrossed by various waterways.


 "This study brings forth a fresh character into the narrative of human evolution in Europe," stated Dr. Rosa Huguet from the University of Rovira i Virgili located in southern Catalonia, who assisted in discovering the fossils within the Sima del Elefante (Elephant Pit) cave close to Atapuerca in Burgos.


 Early humans migrated to Eurasia from Africa at least 1.8 million years ago, as indicated by the evidence.
 five skulls
 originating from the era of Dmanisi in Georgia. These craniums are linked to Homo erectus, the initial ancient human species to migrate out of Africa.


 So far, the oldest human remains found in western Europe dated back to between 1.1 million and 1.2 million years ago.
 jawbone and teeth
 from Sima del Elefante.
 Younger human remains
 Discovered around 800,000 years ago, these remains were found within the Gran Dolina (Giant Sinkhole) cave nearby. Specific characteristics of these fossils prompted scientists to classify them as a separate species, known as Homo antecessor, also referred to as Pioneer Man.


 Writing in the journal
 Nature
 The Spanish team indicates that the most recent findings are more archaic compared to Homo antecessor but bear similarities to Homo erectus. Due to the ambiguity surrounding the fossil’s classification, they have labeled the species as Homo affinis erectus, highlighting its strong connection to this earlier form of humanity.


 
 Related:
 
 Where have they all vanished to? How Homo sapiens turned into the sole surviving human species.


 The Latin name is not the only one used for the remains, however. Informally, the researchers nicknamed the fossil “Pink” after Pink Floyd, whose album The Dark Side of the Moon translates to “La cara oculta de la luna”, where “cara oculta” means “hidden face”.


 Dr María Martinón-Torres, who leads the National Centre for Research on Human Evolution in Burgos, noted that one of Pink’s distinct features was her flatter nasal structure compared to Homo antecessor. Unlike this earlier species, Pink exhibited a more contemporary facial appearance along with pronounced nasal bones similar to those found in Homo sapiens.


 Chris Stringer, who leads research on human evolution at the Natural History Museum in London, stated that the fossil was "an extremely significant discovery." In 2023, Stringer along with several others made this identification.
 period of extreme cooling
 roughly 1.1 million years ago might have pushed early humans out of Western Europe, potentially accounting for the distinct population discovered at Sima del Elefante afterward.


 Excavations at Sima del Elefante paint a picture of lush meadows and woodlands more than 1.1m years ago with oaks, pines, juniper and hazel trees in abundance. Rivers cutting through the landscape drew water voles and mice, hippos, bison and deer. Quartz and flint tools have also been recovered alongside animal bones bearing cut marks from butchering.


 Further understanding of the Sima del Elefante way of life can be gleaned from a groove spanning part of a tooth’s surface in the Pink fossil. This marking, thought to represent wear caused by early use of primitive dental tools, provides additional clues about their habits.


 This marks another stride toward comprehending the early inhabitants of Europe," stated Dr José María Bermúdez de Castro, who co-directs the Atapuerca Project. "It appears that these initial humans bore similarities to those often categorized under Homo erectus. Nonetheless, the findings from the Sima del Elefante location exhibit a distinct set of characteristics. To form a firmer conclusion regarding their specific classification, additional fossils must be discovered at other contemporaneous sites.

Oldest Known Human Face Unearthed: Ancient Bones Revealed in Spanish Cave

Unknown africa, archaeology, culture, europe, fossils

The bone pieces discovered in an old Spanish cave are from the most ancient human face found so far in Western Europe, according to researchers. The fossilized remnants consist of the left cheekbon…

New Discovery Suggests Sutton Hoo Helmet Might Not Be From Sweden After All

Unknown archaeology, culture, history

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BLpho" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BLpho.jpg"/>

 A find made by a metal detectorist in Denmark has sparked queries regarding the roots of the famous Sutton Hoo helmet, which was long believed to be connected to Sweden.


 The treasure hunter discovered a tiny metallic seal on an island located in southern Denmark, featuring designs akin to those seen on the renowned helmet.


 Peter Pentz, a curator from the National Museum of Denmark, suggests that this finding increases the likelihood that the Sutton Hoo helmet might actually be of Danish origin.


 The archaeologist informed the DIWIDA that if the helmet is confirmed to be from Denmark, it might alter our comprehension of the power dynamics in Northern Europe during the 7th century.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BLphG" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BLphG.jpg"/>

 It is believed that Sutton Hoo was the final resting place of King Raedwald, the ruler of East Anglia, who passed away in 624 AD.


 Initially unearthed in 1939, over 260 artifacts were discovered at the Suffolk property, among them being an iron and copper-reinforced helmet, which is regarded as one of the era’s most significant finds. Additional objects such as a shield and drinking horns further indicate ties with Scandinavia.


 The helmet, currently residing in the British Museum, features an array of designs, such as two small panels showing riders on horses.


 It is considered to be inspired by earlier Roman styles, and historians once hypothesized that it could have originated in Uppland, east-central Sweden, where comparable designs featuring mounted warriors were found on helmets. Experts speculate that it might have served as either an inherited object or a diplomatic present.


 However, experts from the National Museum of Denmark currently assert that the newly discovered metal stamp shares a "remarkable resemblance" with the design elements found on the helmet.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BLphQ" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BLphQ.jpg"/>

 A verdant copper-alloy seal discovered two years back was located by the local archaeologist Jan Hjort. While using his metal detector to search through a field on the Danish island of Taasinge, he stumbled upon this metallic artifact.


 Initially, he believed it was an ordinary "photo plaque," but upon further inspection, he discovered it was something "remarkable" and shared this with the DIWIDA.


 The distinctive element is the motif," he states. "It's an incredibly potent visual.


 The stylistic resemblances are remarkably strong," states Mr. Pentz, the curator. "We have never witnessed such a close connection before.


 Comparable themes have also been discovered in Germany; however, this is the first one uncovered in Denmark.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BLvKz" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BLvKz.jpg"/>

 Mr. Hjort's discovery was turned over to a nearby museum, though it has only been examined recently.


 The object has dimensions of only 5cm by 4cm (2in by 1.6in) and is thought to be either a stamp or “die,” commonly referred to as a “patrice.”


 Although the design does not perfectly match the Sutton Hoo helmet, upon thorough examination of the two damaged helmet panels, Mr. Pentz notes that they share “numerous similarities.”


 "He points out that when we look closely at the horse, everything matches—the nose piece, the mane, the ear, and the tail—indicating it’s indeed the same horse," he explains.


 He believes that the Sutton Hoo and Danish themes show more similarities with each other compared to those of Sweden, implying that the helmet might have originated from or near the Danish islands.


 The curator thinks that Taasinge might have hosted a metalworking shop in the 7th century. Evidence supporting this includes a small piece of silver likely intended for making foils and various fragments of metals discovered at the site.


 According to Mr. Pentz, this die likely originates from the same workshop or a similar setting as the Sutton Hoo helmet. The production was presumably carried out locally, or through trade exchanges.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BLpir" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BLpir.jpg"/>

 The Anglo-Saxon ship burial ground at Sutton Hoo, located close to Woodbridge in Suffolk, is often referred to as England’s equivalent of the Valley of the Kings. This significant find was portrayed in the 2021 Netflix movie titled "The Dig."


 "It truly transformed our comprehension of the Anglo-Saxons," states Laura Howarth, who works as an archaeology and community engagement manager at Sutton Hoo, which is currently managed by the National Trust.


 The term Anglo-Saxon denotes peoples originating from Germany, the Netherlands, and Denmark who arrived in England. Despite being nearly eight-and-a-half decades since then, recent excavations continue at these sites with new hypotheses arising regarding the interments.


 The Sutton Hoo helmet was carefully reconstructed over several years after being initially discovered in fragments numbering in the hundreds. It is currently exhibited at the British Museum. Ms. Howarth refers to the helmet as the "visage of the Anglo-Saxon era."


 "The artistry and craftsmanship lie beneath the helmet," she explains. The Danish findings indicate that Sutton Hoo is "far from a completed story," Ms Howarth notes additionally.


 She notes that when observing it, it clearly belongs to a design lineage prevalent during this era,” indicating that several pieces within the Sutton Hoo burial site have notable connections to Swedish influences. Additionally, she mentions a German pattern exhibiting striking resemblances.


 Mr. Pentz thinks that the recent discovery supports the idea that Denmark held greater significance during this period than earlier believed, which could position Sweden and England at the margins of a key Danish “center of power.”


 Yet, Ms Howarth from the National Trust remains doubtful. She states, "Relying solely on one discovery to precisely define the relationship and power dynamics between Denmark, Sweden, and the Sutton Hoo community during this period would be too speculative."


 Mr. Pentz mentions that there are "certain hurdles" regarding his hypothesis. The fragments of the Sutton Hoo helmet are extremely broken down into numerous pieces, and the Danish mark is quite eroded.


 The following step involves his hope for comprehensive 3D scans of the designs.


 The discovery was made in an area that hasn’t undergone much digging before, and it’s plausible that the seal might have been exchanged or carried over from another location.


 It will be exhibited at the nation's National Museum in Copenhagen in April.

New Discovery Suggests Sutton Hoo Helmet Might Not Be From Sweden After All

Unknown archaeology, culture, history

A find made by a metal detectorist in Denmark has sparked queries regarding the roots of the famous Sutton Hoo helmet, which was long believed to be connected to Sweden. The treasure hunter discove…

Unveiled: Ancient UAE Hunting Techniques from the Pre-Pottery Neolithic B Era

Unknown archaeologists, archaeology, culture, hunting, warfare

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1Akk16" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1Akk16.jpg"/>
<div class="news-body">
 
 AMMAN — Early in 2022, archaeologists uncovered eight habitation areas in southeastern Jordan. These locations are closely linked with eight large-scale hunting installations known as "desert kites." The dating evidence indicates these related sites fall within the late Pre-Pottery Neolithic B period.
 
 
 The archaeological materials from various sites primarily consist of numerous stone tools, displaying remarkable consistency and uniformity across them all.
 
 
 "Given the distinctive features of the complete stone collection, a novel regional technological complex named 'Ghassanian' has been identified for these arid zones at the edge of the Fertile Crescent," stated French archaeologist René Cressard.
 
 
 Cressard mentioned that numerous arrowheads were found across all occupational levels at sites JKSH F19, P52, and F15. These arrowheads were crafted from small, finely grained chert blades; some may have been brought in through trade, with others being made of quartzite.
 
 
 The archaeologist mentioned that the debris from small, finely grained chert and quartzite blades appears to be predominantly used for this particular manufacturing process.
 
 
 During the preform stage, blanks are modified using direct, inverse, or bifacial retouch with a soft stone hammer. Later, they undergo pressure flaking followed by final invasive retouch to complete the tool.
 
 
 As seen from a typological perspective, these findings from the Jibal Al Khashabiyeh sites share similarities with those recognized in the Southern Levant during the Final PPNB period, particularly concerning single-stemmed blades like the Jericho, Byblos, and Amuq varieties," Cressard noted. "They also align with artifacts from the Late Neolithic era, including unifacial or bifacial tools characterized as single-stemmed or barbed and stemmed, akin to examples such as ha-Parsa, Nizzanim, and Herziliya.
 
 
 Various kinds of arrowheads discovered at the Jibal Al Khashabiyeh sites might represent another significant feature of these collections and the identified technological complex.
 
 
 A deeper analysis of the Jibal Al Khashabiyeh sites will provide essential insights into the regional chronology and typology, as well as facilitate comparisons with other parts of the Levant during the same era," Cressard pointed out, noting additionally that the flint utilized for making blades is locally sourced and appears as medium-sized slabs on the present-day surface of the region.
 
 
 At the JKSH P52 location specifically, numerous small, blade-like daggers were discovered clustered together outside the living area, closely associated with substantial amounts of flakes resulting from two-sided tool modification.
 
 
 Cressard explained that these daggers went through various stages of completion, with the majority appearing to be finalised. He also mentioned that many might have broken during production, presumably taking place in a specialized workshop section.
 
 
 It would be useful to examine potential signs of usage on both the bifaces and the blades to determine if particular functions can be linked specifically to each kind of tool.
 
 
 "As evidenced by their association with faunal remnants, the utilization of either or both seems like a plausible theory. Specifically, curved maces represent an exclusive category of tools during the period when Jibal Al Khashabiyeh was inhabited. These were connected to the application of kite structures, and currently, no similar examples have been identified within the broader region of the Near East," emphasized Cressard.
 
 
 The archaeologist observed that this level of detail might indicate a specific purpose for these tools, possibly related to handling items from hunts.
 
 
 The initial findings from the microscopic wear analysis of the chipped stone tools at site JKSH P52 offer promising avenues for future research regarding how we comprehend the inhabitation of this location and the societal as well as economic structure of the hunter groups connected to desert kites, according to the researcher.
 
 
 So far, initial findings indicate that within the wide range of activities depicted, the numerous processes involved in handling animal products seem to be notably prominent.
 
 
 The ongoing research aims to achieve several objectives: first, to outline the complete range of functions and technical procedures performed using this equipment; second, to deepen our comprehension of how animal remains were processed at the site, particularly in relation to targeted gazelle hunts (including butchering and leatherworking); third, to ascertain if distinct specialized areas can be distinguished both internally and across various sections,” Cressard stated.
 
</div>
Furnished by SyndiGate Media Inc.
Syndigate.info
).

Unveiled: Ancient UAE Hunting Techniques from the Pre-Pottery Neolithic B Era

Unknown archaeologists, archaeology, culture, hunting, warfare

AMMAN — Early in 2022, archaeologists uncovered eight habitation areas in southeastern Jordan. These locations are closely linked with eight large-scale hunting installations known as "desert kit…

Scientists Reveal "Vast City" Buried Beneath Egypt's Giza Pyramids

Unknown archaeologists, archaeology, science, scientific research, world

<ul class="mol-bullets-with-font">
 <li class="">
 
 EXPLORE FURTHER: Scientists Unveil Unknown Type of Energy Found Inside Egypt’s Pyramids
 
 </li>
</ul>

 An 'innovative' find under the Egyptian pyramids has stunned people worldwide.


 Italian scientists assert they have discovered
 
 'an extensive subterranean metropolis' that extends over 4,000 feet beneath the Pyramids of Giza, rendering them 10 times larger when including this hidden dimension.
 bigger than the pyramids themselves
 .
 


 
 The shocking allegation – which numerous experts assert has been discredited –
 
 
 stems from research that utilized radar pulses to generate detailed imagery
 far beneath the surface under the buildings
 just like how sonar and radar are utilized to chart the ocean's depths.
 


 
 The document, which hasn’t undergone review by independent specialists, revealed
 
 Eight cylindrical formations stretching over 2,100 feet beneath the pyramid, with additional unidentified structures going even 4,000 feet deeper.


 A press statement termed the discoveries as 'revolutionary,' and if accurate, they have the potential to alter our understanding of ancient history.
 Egypt
 Nevertheless, independent specialists have voiced significant reservations regarding the study.


 
 Professor Lawrence Conyers, a radar expert at the University of Denver who focuses on archaeology, told diwida.NEWSthat it is not possible for the technology to penetrate that deeply into the ground, making the idea of an underground city 'a huge exaggeration.'
 


 
 Professor Conyers suggested that it is possible there are smaller features like shafts and chambers under the pyramids which predate their construction since the location was
 
 'special to ancient people.'
 
 


 
 He pointed out that the Mayans and other ancient Mesoamericans frequently constructed pyramids over cave or cavern openings that held ceremonial significance for them.
 

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BppZF" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BppZF.jpg"/>

 
 The research conducted by Corrado Malanga from the University of Pisa in Italy, along with Egyptologists Armando Mei and Filippo Biondi from the University of Strathclyde in Scotland, has just been made public recently.
 
 
 a face-to-face presentation in Italy earlier this week which has not yet been published in a scientific journal for scrutiny by independent experts.
 


 Despite the skepticism, Professor
 
 Conyers mentioned that the sole method to validate these findings would be through 'focused excavations.'
 


 
 In his view, as long as writers aren’t fabricating information and their fundamental approaches are accurate, everyone interested in the site should consider their perspectives.
 


 
 We might argue over different understandings, which is known as science. However, the fundamental techniques must be robust.
 


 
 He also informed diwida.NEWS that he was unable to determine whether the technology employed successfully detected any concealed structures beneath the pyramid.
 


 
 'All sorts of advanced specialized data analysis programs are being used by them,' stated Professor.
 
 Conyers.
 
 


 
 The Giza complex comprises three pyramids named Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure, constructed approximately 4,500 years ago atop a rocky plateau situated along the western shore of the Nile River in northern Egypt.
 


 
 Each one was built in honor of a pharaoh.
 
 The most northerly and ancient pyramid in the cluster was constructed for Khufu. It is also referred to as the Great Pyramid and stands out due to its size—standing at 480 feet high with a base that spans 750 feet wide.


 The central pyramid was constructed for Khafre, the one that the team examined, whereas Menkaure stands as the southernmost and final structure within this cluster.


 Malanga is a UFO enthusiast who has been featured in various YouTube programs about extraterrestrial life. He has shared insights from his over ten-year journey investigating Unidentified Flying Object occurrences across Italy.


 On the contrary, Biondi focuses on radar technology.


 And Mei works as a researcher specializing in pre-dynastic Egyptian history.


 In October 2022, Malanga and Biondi released an independent peer-reviewed article in the scientific journal Remote Sensing. The study revealed concealed chambers and inclined passageways within Khafre, as well as indications of a heat signature close to the structure's foundation.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1Bpwwb" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1Bpwwb.jpg"/>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BprCa" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BprCa.jpg"/>

 
 The latest research employed comparable technology but received an enhancement from a satellite circling the planet.
 


 
 This innovative radar method functions by merging satellite radar information with minuscule tremors caused by natural seismic activity, enabling the creation of 3D representations of subsurface features without the need for excavation.
 


 
 Nicole Ciccolo, who is the spokesperson for the project, stated: "An extensive subterranean city has been found underneath the pyramids."
 


 
 'This pioneering research has reshaped the limits of satellite data analysis and archaeological investigation.'
 


 
 She posted a brief excerpt from the press conference on March 15, mentioning that the complete recording of the event will be available on March 25.
 


 The cylindrical forms, termed 'shafts' by Ciclico, were positioned in two parallel lines and encircled by downward spiraling paths.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BppZO" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BppZO.jpg"/>

 Ciccolo mentioned that they discovered cylindrical structures beneath all three pyramids, which seem to function "as entryways to an underground network."


 The team described the system as comprising interconnected chambers beneath all three pyramids.


 
 'Ciclico mentioned that enormous caverns lie underneath the Earth's surface, similar in scale to the pyramids, and these exhibit a striking similarity to the mythical Halls of Amenti.'
 


 
 
 These recent archaeological discoveries might reshape our comprehension of the sacred geography of ancient Egypt, offering spatial locations for what was previously unknown.
 
 'referred to as unknown and uncharted underground complexes,' she mentioned additionally.
 


 
 This week, the news has spread like wildfire, inundating social media platforms with posts regarding the possible discovery.
 


 
 Florida Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna posted about some buildings on her X account.
 


 The group intends to keep pursuing their study through the year 2025.

Read more

Scientists Reveal "Vast City" Buried Beneath Egypt's Giza Pyramids

Unknown archaeologists, archaeology, science, scientific research, world

EXPLORE FURTHER: Scientists Unveil Unknown Type of Energy Found Inside Egypt’s Pyramids An 'innovative' find under the Egyptian pyramids has stunned people worldwide. Italian scientist…

Archaeologists Stunned by 2,200-Year-Old Shackles at Egyptian Gold Mine

Unknown ancient egypt, ancient history, archaeology, egypt history, workers

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BnStY" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BnStY.jpg"/>


 Archaeologists have unearthed a chilling discovery at an ancient Egyptian gold mine—two sets of
 
 iron shackles
 
 dating back 2,200 years. The find, located at the Ghozza mine in Egypt’s Eastern Desert, sheds stark light on the harsh and often brutal realities of gold mining during the Ptolemaic dynasty (305–30 B.C.).


 According to findings published in the journal
 
 The Archaeology of the Egyptian Eastern Desert: Recent Discoveries and Research
 
 , researchers believe the shackles provide undeniable evidence that forced labor was a driving force behind Egypt’s gold industry, raising serious questions about the human cost of sustaining the ancient empire’s wealth and power.

<h2>
 A Dark Past Buried In The Desert
</h2>

 The discovery was made at
 
 Ghozza
 
 , the northernmost known Ptolemaic
 gold mine
 , which was operational between
 
 250 and 200 B.C.
 
 While historical records suggested that Egyptian mines housed both paid laborers and enslaved workers.


 Archaeologist
 
 Bérangère Redon
 
 , who led the research, explained that the shackles were found in an
 
 ancient storage building
 
 , buried among iron tools and discarded ore. One set contained
 
 seven ankle rings and two links
 
 , while the other had
 
 four links and two ankle-ring fragments
 
 . Their purpose was clear: restraining miners to prevent escape.


 Redon noted that these shackles closely resemble those used in
 
 Greek silver mines at Laurion
 
 , suggesting that
 
 Greek engineering techniques
 
 —and perhaps their system of labor control—were imported into
 Egypt
 during the Ptolemaic period.

<h2>
 Forced Labor In Egypt’s Gold Industry
</h2>

 After
 
 Alexander the Great’s conquest of Egypt
 
 , the Ptolemies opened numerous mines across the desert to extract gold, which
 
 funded their military campaigns
 
 . While some workers received wages, the discovery at Ghozza indicates that others had no choice in their labor.


 Ancient texts mention that
 
 prisoners of war and criminals
 
 were often sent to these mines as punishment, forced to endure extreme conditions. Yet, at Ghozza, researchers previously believed that most workers were free laborers since no
 
 guarded dormitories
 
 were found—unlike at other mining sites, where structures were built specifically to control enslaved workers.


 The newly discovered shackles
 
 contradict that assumption
 
 . “These objects give us irrefutable proof of the miners’ status, which we did not have until now,” Redon stated.


 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BnXtQ" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BnXtQ.jpg"/>

<h2>
 Life And Death In The Gold Mine
</h2>

 The Ptolemaic gold mines were notorious for their
 
 harsh conditions
 
 . Workers used
 
 handheld grinding stones
 
 to extract gold from natural ore, a backbreaking process performed under
 
 scorching desert heat
 
 . Housing for laborers varied, with
 
 some sites heavily guarded
 
 , preventing enslaved workers from escaping.


 At Ghozza, archaeologists also found
 
 hundreds of ostraca
 
 —pottery fragments used as
 
 scrap paper
 
 —which provide glimpses into daily life. Some miners received wages, but others, as the shackles suggest, were forcibly detained.


 While no human remains were found in connection with the shackles, historical accounts indicate that
 
 miners often worked until they died
 
 . Ancient Greek historian
 
 Diodorus Siculus
 
 described Egyptian mines as
 
 hellish prisons
 
 , where men were condemned to endless labor, subjected to extreme hunger and thirst, and rarely saw the light of day.


 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BnXtU" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BnXtU.jpg"/>

<h2>
 A Legacy of Suffering
</h2>

 The Ghozza discovery adds to a growing body of evidence that
 
 gold mining in ancient Egypt
 
 was not just an economic enterprise, but a brutal system of exploitation. While the
 
 gold extracted from these mines
 
 helped fund Ptolemaic expansion and maintain the royal court’s lavish lifestyle, it came at an enormous human cost.


 The findings also highlight the continuities between ancient mining practices
 across the Mediterranean world
 , showing that techniques—and systems of oppression—were often imported and adapted.


 
 Enjoyed this article?
 
 Subscribe to our free newsletter
 for engaging stories, exclusive content, and the latest news.


 For more news like this, visit
 .

Archaeologists Stunned by 2,200-Year-Old Shackles at Egyptian Gold Mine

Unknown ancient egypt, ancient history, archaeology, egypt history, workers

Archaeologists have unearthed a chilling discovery at an ancient Egyptian gold mine—two sets of iron shackles dating back 2,200 years. The find, located at the Ghozza mine in Egypt’s Easter…

Oldest human FACE: Ancient man lived in Spain 1.4 million years ago

Unknown archaeology, biology, culture, culture & history, health, society

<ul class="mol-bullets-with-font">
 <li class="">
 
 READ MORE: Scientists reveal face of 'completely unknown' human ancestor
 
 </li>
</ul>

 Scientists have discovered the oldest human face in Western Europe, potentially rewriting the story of human evolution.


 The ancient human nicknamed 'Pink' lived in
 Spain
 's Iberian Peninsula between 1.1 and 1.4 million years ago.


 That means Pink easily predates the arrival of modern humans, Homo sapiens, on the continent just 45,000 years ago.


 The fossilised remains are distinct from other ancient hominin remains found in the area, raising the possibility that Pink could be an entirely new human species.


 The fragments of this hominin face were discovered in 2022 inside a cave called Sima del Elefante,
 where some of Europe's most ancient human remains have been found.


 Nevertheless, Pink seems to have a distinct architecture compared to Homo antecessor, another hominin species that inhabited the region as far back as 860,000 years ago.


 Rather than resembling us, he looks more like Homo erectus, an even older human species that appeared in Africa about two million years ago and was the first to walk upright just as we do today.


 Researchers think that Pink's species might have been some of the earliest humans to reach Europe, only to be eradicated later due to rapid climatic changes.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AQdff" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AQdff.jpg"/>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AQ880" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AQ880.jpg"/>

 Consisting of various fragmented pieces along with sections of two teeth, the skeletal remnants discovered at Sima del Elephant are thought to represent the earliest known instance of human face bones uncovered in Western Europe.


 The research team dubbed the person 'Pink' inspired by Pink Floyd's album "Dark Side of the Moon," known as 'La Cara Oculta de la Luna' in Spanish, with 'cara oculta' translating to 'hidden face.'


 Once Pink’s remains were uncovered, researchers originally believed that they might be attributed to another of the early human species that had been identified in the region.


 Inside the cave, earlier studies revealed the presence of Homo antecessor fossils estimated at around 860,000 years old.


 By examining the numerous other animal fossils discovered in the same stratum of the cave along with the indications of periodic changes in Earth’s magnetic field imprinted in the soil, scientists determined that Pink's remains are approximately 1.1 to 1.4 million years old.


 Moreover, upon meticulously rebuilding the remains, it was evident that Pink’s facial structure did not match any known ancient human species from the region.


 Dr María Martinón, who leads the National Centre for Research on Human Evolution, comments: "While Homo antecessor has a more contemporary appearance with a defined nasal bone area similar to Homo sapiens, Pink displays characteristics closer to those found in Homo erectus, specifically through its flatter and less developed nose."


 Homo erectus was the first human species to develop an upright gait and posture like a modern human and was the first to use stone hand tools for cutting.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AQhJ5" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AQhJ5.jpg"/>

 After emerging in Africa around two million years ago, this species migrated out into Asia and even made its way into Eastern Europe.


 At a site in modern-day Georgia, palaeontologists have discovered five skulls belonging to Homo erectus
 dating back 1.8 million years
 .


 However, the Western European fossil record is extremely bare before 800,000 years ago.


 Scientists have only found a single tooth and some stone tools dating to 1.4 million years ago in Spain, along with
 a jawbone at Sima del Elefante dated to 1.1 million years ago.


 Near Pink's remains, researchers also discovered stone tools made of quartz and flint, alongside animal bones bearing clear cut marks.


 This indicates that Pink and their relatives had already developed a simple tool 'industry' and knew how to butcher animals for meat just like Homo erectus.


 Study co-author Dr Xosé Pedro Rodríguez, of the University of Rovira i Virgili (URV), says: 'They suggest an effective subsistence strategy and highlight the hominins’ ability to exploit the resources available in their environment.'


 If Pink really is a member of Homo erectus, then this find would show that this human ancestor species spread itself far wider and far earlier than scientists had previously thought.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AQhJp" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AQhJp.jpg"/>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AQdfT" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AQdfT.jpg"/>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AQaLy" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AQaLy.jpg"/>
<div class="art-ins mol-factbox floatRHS sciencetech">
 <h3 class="mol-factbox-title">
 Who were Homo antecessor?
 </h3>
 <div class="ins cleared mol-factbox-body">
 
 Homo antecessor is one of the earliest known varieties of human discovered in Europe, dating as far back as one million years ago.
 
 
 Believed to have weighed around 14 stone, Homo antecessor was said to have been between 5.5 and 6ft tall.
 
 
 Their brain sizes were roughly between 1,000 and 1,150 cm³, which is smaller than the average 1,350 cm³ brains of modern humans.
 
 
 The species is believed to have been right-handed, making it different from other apes, and may have used a symbolic language, according to archaeologists who found remains in Burgos, Spain in 1994.
 
 </div>
</div>

 However, the researchers aren't convinced that Pink is just another member of this human ancestor species.


 Although their skulls are similar, Pink's facial structure is narrower than examples of Homo erectus found across Asia and Africa.


 But, with only fragments of bone and two worn teeth to go on, the researchers cannot yet be certain that Pink is an entirely new species.


 Instead, they opted to designate Pink as 'Homo affinis erectus', using the Latin term 'affinis' to mean that it has an affinity with the known species.


 Dr Martinón says: 'The evidence is still insufficient for a definitive classification, which is why we adopted the name Homo affinis erectus.


 She adds that this was done to 'acknowledge Pink’s affinities with Homo erectus while leaving open the possibility that the remains may belong to another species.'


 The researchers argue that Pink's species was part of the first wave of human migration into Western Europe.


 Yet, that first migration appears to have been cut off abruptly when the climate of the Iberian Peninsula suddenly changed.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AQfxB" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AQfxB.jpg"/>

 At the time Pink lived in Spain, the Sierra de Atapuerca region would have featured a mix of wooded areas, wet grasslands, and seasonal water sources - making for a resource-rich environment for ancient humans.


 However,
 previous studies suggest that there may have been a sudden climatic shift around 1.1 million years ago
 which could have wiped out the human population.


 That could explain why there is such a large gap in the fossil record between Pink and the later Homo antecessor remains.


 Dr Eudald Carbonell, a palaeontologist from URV and co-director of the project, says: 'Evidence for different hominin populations in Western Europe during the Early Pleistocene suggests that this region was a key point in the evolutionary history of the genus Homo.'

Read more

Oldest human FACE: Ancient man lived in Spain 1.4 million years ago

Unknown archaeology, biology, culture, culture & history, health, society

READ MORE: Scientists reveal face of 'completely unknown' human ancestor Scientists have discovered the oldest human face in Western Europe, potentially rewriting the story of human evo…

Oldest Human Face Unveiled: Ancient Spaniard Lived 1.4 Million Years Ago

Unknown archaeology, biology, culture, culture & history, health, society

<ul class="mol-bullets-with-font">
 <li class="">
 
 READ MORE: Scientists reveal face of 'completely unknown' human ancestor
 
 </li>
</ul>

 Scientists have discovered the oldest human face in Western Europe, potentially rewriting the story of human evolution.


 The ancient human nicknamed 'Pink' lived in
 Spain
 's Iberian Peninsula between 1.1 and 1.4 million years ago.


 That means Pink easily predates the arrival of modern humans, Homo sapiens, on the continent just 45,000 years ago.


 The fossilised remains are distinct from other ancient hominin remains found in the area, raising the possibility that Pink could be an entirely new human species.


 The fragments of this hominin face were discovered in 2022 inside a cave called Sima del Elefante,
 where some of Europe's most ancient human remains have been found.


 However, Pink appears to have a different structure from Homo antecessor, another human species which lived in the same area up to 860,000 years ago.


 Instead, he resembles Homo erectus, a far more ancient human species which emerged in Africa two million years ago and was the first to walk on two legs like a modern human.


 The researchers believe that Pink's species could have been among the very first humans to arrive in Europe before being wiped out by a sudden shift in the climate.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AQdff" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AQdff.jpg"/>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AQ880" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AQ880.jpg"/>

 Composed of several broken fragments and parts of two teeth, the remains found at Sima del Elefante are believed to be the oldest example of human facial bones found in Western Europe.


 The researchers nicknamed the individual 'Pink' after Pink Floyd's album Dark Side of the Moon, which is 'La cara oculta de la luna' in Spanish, where 'cara oculta' means 'hidden face'.


 When Pink's remains were discovered, scientists initially thought that they would belong to one of the other ancient human species found in the area.


 Within the cave, researchers have previously found the remains of Homo antecessor dating back 860,000 years.


 By looking at the thousands of other animal fossils found in the same layer of the cave alongside the traces left in the soil by periodic shifts in Earth's magnetic field, the researchers dated Pink's remains to between 1.1 and 1.4 million years ago.


 Additionally, after carefully reconstructing the remains, it became clear that Pink's face didn't have the same structure as any ancient human species from the area.


 Co-author Dr María Martinón, director of the National Centre for Research on Human Evolution, says: 'Homo antecessor shares with Homo sapiens a more modern-looking face and a prominent nasal bone structure, whereas Pink’s facial features are more primitive, resembling Homo erectus, particularly in its flat and underdeveloped nasal structure.'


 Homo erectus was the first human species to develop an upright gait and posture like a modern human and was the first to use stone hand tools for cutting.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AQhJ5" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AQhJ5.jpg"/>

 After emerging in Africa around two million years ago, this species migrated out into Asia and even made its way into Eastern Europe.


 At a location in present-day Georgia, paleontologists have unearthed five craniums attributed to Homo erectus.
 tracing back 1.8 million years
 .


 Nevertheless, the fossil records from Western Europe remain notably sparse until 800,000 years ago.


 Scientists have discovered just one tooth and some stone tools from approximately 1.4 million years ago in Spain, alongside
 a jawbone at Sima del Elefante dated to 1.1 million years ago.


 Near Pink's remains, researchers also discovered stone tools made of quartz and flint, alongside animal bones bearing clear cut marks.


 This indicates that Pink and their relatives had already developed a simple tool 'industry' and knew how to butcher animals for meat just like Homo erectus.


 Study co-author Dr Xosé Pedro Rodríguez, of the University of Rovira i Virgili (URV), says: 'They suggest an effective subsistence strategy and highlight the hominins’ ability to exploit the resources available in their environment.'


 If Pink really is a member of Homo erectus, then this find would show that this human ancestor species spread itself far wider and far earlier than scientists had previously thought.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AQhJp" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AQhJp.jpg"/>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AQdfT" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AQdfT.jpg"/>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AQaLy" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AQaLy.jpg"/>
<div class="art-ins mol-factbox floatRHS sciencetech">
 <h3 class="mol-factbox-title">
 Who were Homo antecessor?
 </h3>
 <div class="ins cleared mol-factbox-body">
 
 Homo antecessor is one of the earliest known varieties of human discovered in Europe, dating as far back as one million years ago.
 
 
 Believed to have weighed around 14 stone, Homo antecessor was said to have been between 5.5 and 6ft tall.
 
 
 Their brain sizes were roughly between 1,000 and 1,150 cm³, which is smaller than the average 1,350 cm³ brains of modern humans.
 
 
 The species is believed to have been right-handed, making it different from other apes, and may have used a symbolic language, according to archaeologists who found remains in Burgos, Spain in 1994.
 
 </div>
</div>

 However, the researchers aren't convinced that Pink is just another member of this human ancestor species.


 Although their skulls are similar, Pink's facial structure is narrower than examples of Homo erectus found across Asia and Africa.


 However, based solely on pieces of bones and two slightly worn teeth, the scientists cannot yet confirm that Pink represents a completely new species.


 Rather than doing so, they chose to label Pink as 'Homo affinis erectus,' employing the Latin word 'affinis' which signifies that it shares similarities with recognized species.


 Dr Martinón states: "There isn't enough proof yet for a conclusive categorisation, so we chose the term Homo affinis erectus."


 She mentions that this step was taken to 'recognize Pink’s connections with Homo erectus while still allowing for the chance that the remains could be from another species.'


 The scholars contend that Pink's species formed part of the initial influx of humans into Western Europe.


 Yet, that first migration appears to have been cut off abruptly when the climate of the Iberian Peninsula suddenly changed.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AQfxB" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AQfxB.jpg"/>

 At the time Pink lived in Spain, the Sierra de Atapuerca region would have featured a mix of wooded areas, wet grasslands, and seasonal water sources - making for a resource-rich environment for ancient humans.


 However,
 previous studies suggest that there may have been a sudden climatic shift around 1.1 million years ago
 which could have wiped out the human population.


 This might be why there’s a significant gap in the fossil records between Pink and the subsequent Homo antecessor specimens.


 Dr Eudald Carbonell, a paleontologist from URV and co-director of the project, states: "The evidence pointing towards distinct hominin groups in Western Europe throughout the Early Pleistocene indicates that this area played a crucial role in the evolution of the genus Homo."

Read more

Oldest Human Face Unveiled: Ancient Spaniard Lived 1.4 Million Years Ago

Unknown archaeology, biology, culture, culture & history, health, society

READ MORE: Scientists reveal face of 'completely unknown' human ancestor Scientists have discovered the oldest human face in Western Europe, potentially rewriting the story of human evo…

Bone Tools: Our Ancestors Mastered Them a Million Years Sooner Than Believed

Unknown archaeologists, archaeology, culture, paleontology, technology

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1Asghe" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1Asghe.jpg"/>

 
 Researchers have unearthed what are believed to be the oldest known bone implements, shifting the timeline for their usage by approximately one million years earlier than previously thought.
 


 The find suggests early humans had more advanced tool-making skills than previously thought.


 These 27 fossilized remains, crafted into tools approximately 1.5 million years ago, are reshaping our understanding of early human technological development.


 The collection discovered in Tanzania's Olduvai Gorge offers the oldest proof of intentional creation of bone tools by early hominids.


 Made from the robust femur bones of elephants and hippopotamuses, these tools indicate that ancient humans had more sophisticated tool kits than earlier believed.


 Scientists have established that basic stone tools date back 3.3 million years. However, bone tools were thought to have been invented significantly later.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/video/AA1Asghk" data-reference="video"/>

 The artifacts, which remain remarkably intact with some pieces extending up to 40 centimeters, exhibit evident indications of deliberate crafting.


 When they came into being, our forebears inhabited an uncertain life as hunter-gatherers on the plains of the Serengeti region, a terrain brimming with animal life.


 They created them utilizing a method akin to the production of stone tools, where tiny flakes were detached to create razor-sharp borders, showcasing advanced expertise.


 Dr. Christine Adhiambo Ogola serves as an archaeologist at the National Museum of Kenya and was not part of this particular research endeavor.


 "They mentioned that bone tools aren't prevalent due to their decomposition. Thus, even though there might be numerous instances of these tools throughout history, only a few remain today. In contrast, we find more stone tools still extant," she explained.


 These implements were probably utilized as hand-held axes primarily for processing animal carcases, notably scavenged remnants of elephants and hippopotamuses.


 Unlike subsequent instruments, these were not attached to handles or employed as spears.


 Scientists believe that the consistent choice of certain bones, mainly big limb bones from particular creatures, indicates that ancient humans intentionally looked for high-quality raw materials to craft their tools.


 "We can’t precisely determine when they began utilizing bone tools since it’s possible that these implements were used even before the recorded period. Given what we know about chimpanzees employing such tools, it suggests that human beings at an equivalent stage of evolution might have utilized similar instruments as well," explained Ogola.


 Consider this from a temporal perspective. When did humans reach that stage? It might have been as far back as 4-5 million years ago.


 This finding predates the emergence of Homo sapiens by over a million years. During this period, at least three distinct hominin species inhabited the area, namely Homo erectus, Homo habilis, and Paranthropus boisei.


 It remains uncertain which species created these tools; however, experts believe the discoveries indicate that ancient humans weren’t merely responding to their surroundings. Instead, they seem to have been deliberately strategizing about how they crafted their tools and carefully choosing materials for specific intended uses.


 The finding, reported in the journal Nature, offers fresh understanding of the developing intellect and flexibility of our ancient forebears.

Bone Tools: Our Ancestors Mastered Them a Million Years Sooner Than Believed

Unknown archaeologists, archaeology, culture, paleontology, technology

Researchers have unearthed what are believed to be the oldest known bone implements, shifting the timeline for their usage by approximately one million years earlier than previously thought. T…

Bone Tools: Ancestors Mastered Them a Million Years Sooner Than Believed

Unknown archaeologists, archaeology, culture, paleontology, technology

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1Asghe" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1Asghe.jpg"/>

 
 Archaeologists have unearthed what appear to be the oldest known bone instruments, which date back about a million years earlier than previous findings.
 


 This discovery indicates that early humans possessed more sophisticated tool-making abilities than was earlier believed.


 These 27 fossilized remains, transformed into tools approximately 1.5 million years ago, are reshaping our understanding of early human technological development.


 The collection discovered in Tanzania's Olduvai Gorge offers the earliest proof of intentional creation of bone tools by early hominins.


 Crafted from the robust thigh bones of elephants and hippopotamuses, these tools indicate that ancient humans had developed more sophisticated tool sets than earlier believed.


 Scientists have established that basic stone instruments date back 3.3 million years. However, bone tools were thought to be an invention of more recent times, up until now.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/video/AA1Asghk" data-reference="video"/>

 The artifacts, which remain in excellent condition with some pieces reaching up to 40 centimeters, exhibit evident indications of deliberate crafting.


 When they were first made, our ancestors inhabited the perilous hunter-gatherer world across the plains of the Serengeti region, an area brimming with animal life.


 They created them utilizing a method akin to the production of stone tools, achieved by detaching tiny flakes to create keen edges, showcasing advanced skillfulness.


 Dr. Christine Adhiambo Ogola is an archaeologist affiliated with the National Museum of Kenya. She did not participate in the research.


 "Bone instruments are relatively rare due to their tendency to decay. Therefore, even though there might be numerous instances of them throughout history, only a few remain. In contrast, stone tools persist longer, which is why they are more commonly found," she explained.


 These implements were probably utilized as hand-held axes for dismembering animal carcasses, mainly scavenged remnants of elephants and hippos.


 Unlike subsequent implements, these were not attached to handles or employed as spears.


 Scientists claim that the consistent choice of bones, mainly big limb bones from particular creatures, indicates that ancient humans intentionally looked for high-quality raw materials to craft their tools.


 "We can't precisely determine when they began utilizing bone tools since it’s possible that these implements were used even earlier. Given what we know about chimpanzees employing such tools, it suggests that human beings at a similar stage of evolution would have been capable of doing the same," explained Ogola.


 Consider this from a temporal perspective. When did humans reach that stage? It might have been as far back as 4-5 million years ago.


 This finding predates the emergence of Homo sapiens by over a million years. During this period, at least three distinct hominin species inhabited the area, namely Homo erectus, Homo habilis, and Paranthropus boisei.


 It remains uncertain which species created these tools; however, experts indicate that the discoveries imply early humans weren’t merely responding passively to their surroundings. Instead, they appear to have been deliberately strategizing about how they crafted their tools and carefully choosing materials for specific intended uses.


 The finding, reported in the journal Nature, offers fresh understanding of the developing intellect and flexibility of our ancient forebears.

Bone Tools: Ancestors Mastered Them a Million Years Sooner Than Believed

Unknown archaeologists, archaeology, culture, paleontology, technology

Archaeologists have unearthed what appear to be the oldest known bone instruments, which date back about a million years earlier than previous findings. This discovery indicates that early hum…

Britons 'were mostly black 5,000 years ago', new study suggests

Unknown ancient history, archaeology, culture, history, immigrants

The Britons responsible for the building of the iconic Stonehenge were probably black people, a study has suggested.


 Data from 348 ancient genomes gathered from across Eurasia have been reconstructed by scientists at the University of Ferrara in
 <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/italy/index.html">
 Italy
 </a>
 which show almost all Europeans had dark skin until around 3,000 years ago.


 With Stonehenge, just outside the town of
 <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/glastonbury/index.html">
 Glastonbury
 </a>
 , being constructed around 5,000 years ago, experts have said we can assume the builders had dark skin.


 Until around 1,700 years ago, the majority of Europeans had dark skin, the authors of the study say, adding that most of the ancient Greeks and Romans, and the Britons who built Stonehenge, had dark skin, eyes and hair.


 The study confirms that the shift to lighter skin, thanks to the movement of people to higher latitudes and more vitamin D intake as a result, was slower than previously thought.


 Experts are still unsure why the change from darker to light skin was so slow.


 However, scientists believe farmers may have compensations for vitamin D deficiencies in their diet with accessible sources such as milk and meat.


 Samples for the study were taken from the British Isles, mainland Europe,
 <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/russia-ukraine-conflict/index.html">
 Russia
 </a>
 , central
 <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/asia/index.html">
 Asia
 </a>
 and the Middle East.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1A6Wpb" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1A6Wpb.jpg"/>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1A6Y1v" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1A6Y1v.jpg"/>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1A6OSu" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1A6OSu.jpg"/>

 Dr Silvia Ghirotto, an evolutionary biologist at the University of Ferrara in Italy who led the work, told
 <a href="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/">
 The Telegraph
 </a>
 : 'By analysing ancient DNA from 348 individuals spanning 45,000 years, we reconstructed an intricate picture in which light pigmentation emerged sporadically during the first phases of our presence in Europe.


 'Our ancestors had dark skin until very recent times.


 'Given that Stonehenge was built during the transition from Neolithic to Bronze Age, and given the high frequency of dark-skinned samples we inferred for that period even in northern Europe, it is likely that Britons who built Stonehenge displayed dark features'.


 Stonehenge is an iconic part of Britain's history. It is largely sealed off to the public, with visitors no longer being permitted to touch the stones, but they are able to walk around the monument from a short distance away.


 The whole monument, now ruinous, is aligned towards the sunrise on the and sunset on the winter solstice.


 Large crowds can usually be seen at the monument during the solstice periods as it is considered a place of worship to Neo-Druids, Pagans and other 'earth based' or 'old' religions.


 English Heritage does, however, permit access during the summer and winter solstice, and the spring and autumn equinox.

<a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-14454011/Britons-black-study-stonehenge.html">
 Read more
</a>

Britons 'were mostly black 5,000 years ago', new study suggests

Unknown ancient history, archaeology, culture, history, immigrants

The Britons responsible for the building of the iconic Stonehenge were probably black people, a study has suggested. Data from 348 ancient genomes gathered from across Eurasia have been reconstruct…

New Study Suggests: Britons Were Predominantly Black 5,000 Years Ago

Unknown ancient history, archaeology, culture, history, immigrants

A study suggests that the people behind the construction of the famous Stonehenge might have been Black individuals.


 Scientists from the University of Ferrara have reconstructed data from 348 ancient genomes collected throughout Eurasia.
 Italy
 Which indicates that nearly all Europeans had dark skin up until about 3,000 years ago.


 Near Stonehenge, which lies just beyond the town of
 Glastonbury
 , estimated to be built about 5,000 years ago, experts suggest we can infer that the constructors likely had dark complexions.


 Up until about 1,700 years ago, most Europeans had dark complexions, according to the researchers behind the study. They also noted that many ancient Greeks and Romans as well as the Britons who constructed Stonehenge possessed dark skin, eyes, and hair.


 The research indicates that the transition towards fairer skin, due to population migration to higher latitudes and increased consumption of vitamin D, occurred at a pace slower than earlier believed.


 Specialists remain baffled as to why the shift from dark to fairer skin progressed at such a gradual pace.


 However, scientists believe farmers may have compensations for vitamin D deficiencies in their diet with accessible sources such as milk and meat.


 Samples for the study were taken from the British Isles, mainland Europe,
 Russia
 , central
 Asia
 and the Middle East.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1A6Wmv" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1A6Wmv.jpg"/>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1A70mF" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1A70mF.jpg"/>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1A6RBD" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1A6RBD.jpg"/>

 Dr Silvia Ghirotto, an evolutionary biologist at the University of Ferrara in Italy who led the work, told
 The Telegraph
 : 'By analysing ancient DNA from 348 individuals spanning 45,000 years, we reconstructed an intricate picture in which light pigmentation emerged sporadically during the first phases of our presence in Europe.


 'Our ancestors had dark skin until very recent times.


 'Given that Stonehenge was built during the transition from Neolithic to Bronze Age, and given the high frequency of dark-skinned samples we inferred for that period even in northern Europe, it is likely that Britons who built Stonehenge displayed dark features'.


 Stonehenge is an iconic part of Britain's history. It is largely sealed off to the public, with visitors no longer being permitted to touch the stones, but they are able to walk around the monument from a short distance away.


 The whole monument, now ruinous, is aligned towards the sunrise on the and sunset on the winter solstice.


 Big groups often gather at the monument around the time of the solstices because it serves as a site for Neo-Druids, Pagans, and various 'nature-based' or 'ancient' faiths to practice their beliefs.


 Nonetheless, English Heritage allows entry during the summer and winter solstices, as well as the spring and autumn equinoxes.

Read more

New Study Suggests: Britons Were Predominantly Black 5,000 Years Ago

Unknown ancient history, archaeology, culture, history, immigrants

A study suggests that the people behind the construction of the famous Stonehenge might have been Black individuals. Scientists from the University of Ferrara have reconstructed data from 348 ancie…

Archaeologists Unveil World's Oldest Rune Stone: Pre-dating Vikings by Centuries

Unknown ancient history, archaeologists, archaeology, culture, science

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1yBRAx" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1yBRAx.jpg"/>


 Archaeologists in Norway have uncovered what might be the
 
 oldest known rune stone
 
 , pushing back the origins of runic writing further than ever imagined. Estimated to date between
 
 50 BCE and 275 CE
 
 , this
 
 extraordinary find
 
 challenges what we thought we knew about the early
 
 Germanic alphabets
 
 and their evolution.

<h2>
 A Silent Witness to Ancient Words
</h2>

 Rune stones are
 
 engraved slabs
 
 bearing inscriptions in the runic alphabet, used by
 
 Germanic and Scandinavian
 
 peoples before the adoption of the
 Latin script
 . Most rune stones were raised between the
 
 3rd and 12th centuries
 
 , often serving
 
 memorial
 
 or
 
 funerary
 
 purposes, marking the graves of warriors, leaders, and even invoking the gods.


 Sweden holds the record for the most rune stones, with over
 
 2,500
 
 discovered, but similar inscriptions have been found across
 
 Norway, Denmark, Britain, and Central Europe
 
 . Each stone offers a glimpse into the past, preserving
 
 language, beliefs, and history
 
 .

<h2>
 A Groundbreaking Find in Norway
</h2>

 The newly discovered
 
 Svingerud stone
 
 , unearthed in a
 
 Norwegian burial site
 
 , is
 
 potentially the oldest rune stone ever found
 
 .
 Archaeologists
 recovered several sandstone fragments from ancient graves, which fit together like a puzzle to form a single engraved slab.


 Using
 
 radiocarbon dating
 
 , experts determined that the stone’s inscription dates back nearly
 
 2,000 years
 
 —
 
 significantly older
 
 than previously known rune stones. This
 
 dramatic discovery
 
 suggests that the runic writing system was in use much earlier than believed, reshaping our understanding of early Scandinavian literacy.


 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1yBRAB" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1yBRAB.jpg"/>

<h2>
 Mysterious Inscriptions and Evolving Symbols
</h2>

 The stone’s carvings
 
 don’t match
 
 the fully developed runic alphabets found on later artifacts. Instead, the engravings are a mix of
 
 recognizable runes
 
 and
 
 unknown symbols
 
 , hinting at an early experimental phase of writing. This
 
 linguistic puzzle
 
 raises exciting questions:


 ・Were these runes proto-forms of the later futhark alphabets?


 ・Did different regions develop unique runic traditions before a standardized system emerged?


 The stone is thought to have served a
 
 funerary purpose
 
 , possibly marking the resting place of an important individual. Over time, it was
 
 broken and repurposed
 
 in other graves, a practice that may reflect
 
 symbolic ancestral connections
 
 —a tradition where elements of earlier burials were incorporated into new ones.

<h2>
 A Turning Point in Runology
</h2>

 This discovery is more than just a piece of
 
 ancient sandstone
 
 —it is a key to unlocking the
 
 evolution of early writing in Northern Europe
 
 . Many previously found rune stones lack clear archaeological contexts, making precise dating difficult. But the
 
 Svingerud stone
 
 , preserved within a burial site, provides
 
 a rare and reliable time capsule
 
 .


 With this groundbreaking find, researchers are now re-evaluating
 
 other runic inscriptions
 
 And considering future digs. Might more ancient rune stones lie concealed under Scandinavia’s terrain, poised to alter our understanding of history yet again?


 
 Enjoyed this article?
 
 Sign up for our complimentary e-newsletter
 For captivating tales, special material, and up-to-date information.


 To find more stories like this one, check out
 .

Archaeologists Unveil World's Oldest Rune Stone: Pre-dating Vikings by Centuries

Unknown ancient history, archaeologists, archaeology, culture, science

Archaeologists in Norway have uncovered what might be the oldest known rune stone , pushing back the origins of runic writing further than ever imagined. Estimated to date between 50 BC…

FOUR ancient sites to visit in South Africa

Unknown africa, ancient history, archaeology, culture, south africa

Historians believe that South Africa was home to the earliest modern humans over 100 000 years ago. With such a significant history, South Africa is home to many ancient archaeological sites to visit.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">
 1. ǂKhomani Cultural Landscape
</h2>

 The
 ǂKhomani Cultural Landscape
 is located on the border between Botswana and Namibia. The large expanse of sand contains evidence of human occupation from the Stone Age to the present time. Visitors can explore the culture of the formerly nomadic ǂKhomani San people and the strategies they used to adapt to harsh desert conditions. It is undoubtedly one of the most astonishing ancient sites to visit in South Africa.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">
 2. Mapungubwe: a special part of history
</h2>

 Visitors
 to
 Mapungubwe
 in Limpopo can discover an ancient African Kingdom, Southern Africa’s first, that was established at Mapungubwe Hill between 1200 and 1290 AD. This is where archaeologists excavated the famous golden rhino and other evidence of a wealthy African kingdom. Almost-untouched remains of the palace sites survived up to the present day.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/BB1pGsUu" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/BB1pGsUu.jpg"/>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">
 3. Bushman’s Kloof
</h2>

 Bushman’s Kloof is a private reserve in the Cederberg Mountains with over 130 San rock art sites that are well-preserved. Some of the sites date back over 10 000 years and symbolise the San people’s cultural and spiritual practices.


 History and geology enthusiasts will find the history of this reserve interesting, especially the
 geological formation
 of the land.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/BB1pGox9" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/BB1pGox9.jpg"/>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">
 4. History unfolds at Border Cave
</h2>

 Border Cave is a deep gash in a cliff face, high in the Lebombo Mountains in KwaZulu-Natal. It has yielded significant archaeological finds. People have discovered tools, preserved plant materials, and bones that date back over 200 000 years in Border Cave.


 A few years ago, Lyn Wadley, an archaeologist at the University of the Witwatersrand, discovered plant remains that point to evidence that the cave’s occupants used grass bedding. She was excavating Border Cave with her team when she discovered what appeared to be
 preserved bedding
 . The quantities of grass suggest people brought it into the cave intentionally, Wadley said. The sediment showed repeating layers of plant and ash suggesting that people used the material to create a clean and comfortable floor surface. Researchers speculate that the cave’s occupants laid their bedding on ash to repel insects.

<h3 class="wp-block-heading">
 Have you visited any of these?
</h3>

 Let us know by clicking on the comment tab below this article or by emailing
 info@
 or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. You can also follow
 @TheSAnews on X
 and
 The South African on Facebook
 for the latest news.

FOUR ancient sites to visit in South Africa

Unknown africa, ancient history, archaeology, culture, south africa

Historians believe that South Africa was home to the earliest modern humans over 100 000 years ago. With such a significant history, South Africa is home to many ancient archaeological sites to visi…