MADRID – Archaeologists have uncovered a human fingerprint in Spain that might be the oldest known human mark, dating back 43,000 years.
Breaking: Ancient Discovery in Spain
In a groundbreaking discovery, archaeologists have found a human fingerprint on a rock in central Spain, believed to be the oldest known human fingerprint. This remarkable find, attributed to a Neanderthal, dates back approximately 43,000 years and was uncovered in the San Lazaro rock shelter. Experts suggest that the fingerprint was intentionally made, potentially marking one of the earliest forms of human art.
Immediate Impact
The discovery sheds new light on Neanderthal behavior, suggesting a capacity for abstract thought and artistic expression. The fingerprint, made with red ocher pigment, was found on a small granite pebble, possibly representing an early attempt to paint a human face.
Key Details Emerge
The study, published in Archaeological and Anthropological Science, reveals that the fingerprint was likely placed with purpose. The rock, originating from the Eresma River, shows no signs of utilitarian use, indicating that it served a symbolic function.
“This object contributes to our understanding of Neanderthals’ capacity for abstraction, suggesting that it could represent one of the earliest human facial symbolizations in prehistory,” stated the study authors.
By the Numbers
- Age of fingerprint: 43,000 years
- Location: San Lazaro rock shelter, Spain
- Material: Red ocher pigment on granite pebble
Expert Analysis
According to researchers from the Complutense University of Madrid and other institutions, the fingerprint is more than just a mark; it is a deliberate artistic endeavor. “It is not just a fingerprint; it is the signature of an individual who manipulated this object with a purpose that goes beyond the utilitarian,” the researchers emphasized.
Background Context
Neanderthals, who lived in Europe and parts of Asia before disappearing around 40,000 years ago, have long been considered capable of complex behaviors. This discovery adds to the growing body of evidence that Neanderthals engaged in symbolic activities.
What Comes Next
The implications of this find are significant, offering new insights into the cognitive abilities of Neanderthals. Further research will focus on analyzing similar artifacts to understand the extent of symbolic behavior among ancient human species.
The study’s findings could reshape our understanding of prehistoric art and the cognitive evolution of early humans. As researchers continue to explore the San Lazaro site, more discoveries may emerge, providing a clearer picture of Neanderthal life and culture.
