Ancient Fingerprint in Spain May Offer New Insights Into Neanderthal Psyche

Ancient fingerprint in Spain may offer new insights into Neanderthal psyche

Neanderthal fingerprint discovered on 43,000-year-old Spanish stone Perico sparks debate over possible use of symbolism; analysis reveals deliberate ochre use and cognitive complexity

Archaeology breakthrough as world's oldest human fingerprint discovered

A red dot on a face-shaped rock in Spain may be setting records in more ways than one. At roughly 43,000-years-old, the dot may be the oldest human fingerprint on record and also one of the earliest symbolic objects ever found in Europe.The fingerprint, made with the red mineral ocher, was left by a Neanderthal, the closest extinct relative of modern humans.Neanderthals went extinct around 40,000-years-ago but occupied Europe for hundreds of tho…

Did a Neanderthal Spot a Face in This Rock 43,000 Years Ago—and Leave a Fingerprint Behind?

The discovery could deepen our understanding of the Neanderthal mind, but some experts aren’t convinced by the interpretation of the evidence.

The red print was left on a face-shaped stone to draw a nose. According to experts, it returns to 43,000 years ago.

Archaeologists believe it may be the oldest preserved human fingerprint in the world.

Spain.- A team of Spanish scientists discovered the oldest intentional human fingerprint in the world, printed 43 thousand years ago by a Neanderthal. The finding occurred at the site of the San Lázaro shelter, in Segovia, during excavations carried out in 2022. In that area lived the last Neanderthals of the peninsula. Likewise, the researchers found a granite pebble shaped ellipsoidal to meter and a half depth, between remains linked to Neande…