Ancient wooden remains found in Spain

Archaeological excavations in Spain have uncovered wooden remnants and impressions that are approximately 60,000 years old, suggesting Neanderthals used wood for various purposes. These findings challenge previous assumptions about the complexity of Neanderthal tool use and resource management.

Site of the discovery

The remains were found at the Abric Romaní site in Catalonia, where nearly 600 wooden remnants and impressions were uncovered. This site is known for its rich prehistoric deposits and has yielded important insights into the lives of early humans in the region.

Research and publication

Researchers from the Catalan Institute of Human Palaeoecology and the Rovira i Virgili University of Tarragona published their findings in the journal Science Advances. The study provides detailed analysis of the wooden materials and their potential uses by Neanderthals.

Preservation of ancient wood

Due to the organic nature of wood, such ancient wooden objects are exceptionally rare in archaeological sites. However, calcium carbonate accumulated around the objects, preserving impressions of decomposed materials that would otherwise have disappeared over time.

Uses of wooden objects

The discovery includes evidence that Neanderthals used wood for tools, weapons, and domestic objects, in addition to using it as fuel. Some of the wooden remnants showed signs of intentional sharpening, suggesting they may have been used as weapons or cutting tools.

Variety of wooden items

Other items included possible bark plates or containers and crossed wooden posts that could have supported a platform for food preparation. The findings indicate that Neanderthals combined tools, resources, and fire in their daily activities, suggesting a level of sophistication in their behavior.

Most wood used for fuel

Most of the nearly 600 wooden remnants were not deliberately shaped but were roots, branches, or wood collected for fuel. Only thirteen pieces showed indications of having been made or used as tools, highlighting the rarity of such artifacts in the archaeological record.