Neanderthals discovered in Tyrol: Treasures from prehistoric times change history!

Neanderthals discovered in Tyrol: Treasures from prehistoric times change history!

A remarkable archaeological find was made in the Tyrolean region. Archaeologists from the University of Innsbruck have discovered twelve remarkable flint artifacts in the Tischoferhöhle near Kufstein, which are dated to around 100,000 years old. These artifacts, including cutting implements, a general-purpose tool and a typical tip from the Neanderthal period, could significantly change the understanding of the prehistoric settlement of Tyrol. The artifacts were found at a depth of over eight feet, highlighting their historical significance. Chunks of charcoal were also found in the immediate vicinity, indicating an early fireplace. This suggests that Neanderthals may have used this cave as a hunting and shelter location, indicating a sophisticated lifestyle.

The previous finds in the Tischoferhöhle dated back a maximum of 35,000 years, so the new artifacts could represent a true revolution in knowledge about the region's prehistory. However, the exact age of the finds is still pending and will be carried out as part of a multi-year research project. The first results are expected in two to three years, which gives researchers and historians plenty of time to speculate and research.

Neanderthals and their cultural context

Neanderthals have often been portrayed as primitive hunters. More recent findings, such as those from the portal for prehistoric archeology reported but show that they used colored earth, shells and even jewelry. Such finds demonstrate the symbolic thinking and cultural complexity of these people.

In recent decades, the understanding of the importance of body decoration in Neanderthals has changed. Archaeologists now recognize that such jewelry could also have been markers of ethnic affiliations and social identities. This new perspective highlights the cultural dimension of Neanderthals and suggests that they lived not only as survivors but also as social beings with complex relationships and identities.

An example of Neanderthal cultural expression is the Grotte du Renne in France, where numerous pieces of jewelry, including ear ornaments and pierced teeth, have been found. These finds come from layers that are between 21,000 and 49,000 years old. Another example is the Quinçay cave, where perforated canines of various animals were discovered, suggesting a certain cultural appreciation for these objects.

The discovery of the artifacts in the Tischoferhöhle could not only rewrite the history of Tyrol, but also expand the comprehensive picture of the Neanderthals. The society of these early humans may have been much more complex than ancient assumptions suggested. How these discoveries fit into the existing scientific discussion will be a central question in the coming years.