In a groundbreaking discovery, researchers have unearthed the oldest known human fingerprint on a granite pebble in the San Lázaro shelter near Segovia, Spain. This remarkable find, dating back approximately 43,000 years, is attributed to Neanderthals and provides unprecedented insights into their symbolic and cognitive capabilities. The fingerprint, made with red ochre pigment, marks a significant milestone in understanding the artistic and symbolic expressions of our ancient relatives.
The discovery was made by a collaborative team from the Complutense University of Madrid, the Spanish National Research Council, and other institutions, utilizing advanced forensic and multiespectral analysis techniques. These methods revealed the intentional application of pigment for non-utilitarian purposes, highlighting the Neanderthals' ability to engage in abstract thought and symbolic behavior. This challenges previous assumptions about their cognitive limitations compared to modern humans.
The San Lázaro shelter, located on the banks of the Eresma River, has become a key site for studying the final stages of Neanderthal presence in the Iberian Peninsula. The pebble, naturally smoothed by river action, features a red dot that, upon closer examination, revealed the ancient fingerprint. This find not only represents the oldest human fingerprint ever discovered but also underscores the cultural sophistication of Neanderthals.
This discovery adds to the growing body of evidence that Neanderthals possessed complex behaviors, including the use of pigments for symbolic purposes. It opens new avenues for research into the cognitive and cultural practices of Neanderthals, suggesting a level of sophistication that parallels that of early modern humans. The findings from Segovia contribute significantly to our understanding of human evolution and the shared heritage between Neanderthals and Homo sapiens.
Starting July 1, Renfe, Spain's national railway company, will phase out its free commuter passes, introducing a new system of discounted travel options aimed primarily at young people and children. This move marks the end of an era for free travel on Cercanías and Media Distancia routes,...
An Air Europa Boeing 787-900, en route from Asunción, Paraguay, to Madrid, Spain, was forced to make two emergency landings at the Silvio Pettirossi International Airport due to a reported technical issue. The aircraft, carrying 272 passengers, initially took off at 13:15 local time but...
The Secretariat of National Defense (Sedena) has come under scrutiny following revelations of its purchase of diesel fuel worth over 500 million pesos from Ecocarburante SA de CV, a company allegedly connected to a huachicol network. This transaction occurred during the construction phase of...
Mediaset has officially announced Laila Jiménez as the new co-host of 'Todo es mentira', marking a significant transition for the show following Marta Flich's departure. Jiménez, a seasoned journalist known for her work on 'Informativos Telecinco', is set to bring her extensive experience and...
The Spanish government has expressed respect for the ongoing strike by judges and prosecutors, emphasizing its commitment to proceed with judicial reforms. Government spokesperson Pilar Alegría acknowledged the strike during a press conference following the Council of Ministers, highlighting...
