Remains of Neanderthal hunter-gatherer settlement uncovered in Turnov

[Judi Lynn]

Archaeologists in the Czech town have discovered a rare site dating back to the Middle Paleolithic period around 126,000 years ago.

Expats.cz Staff
Written by
Expats.cz Staff
Published on 12.01.2025 14:36:00 (updated on 12.01.2025)
Reading time: 2 minutes

Archaeologists in Turnov, located in the Czech Republic's Liberec Region, have uncovered the remains of an ancient Neanderthal hunter-gatherer settlement, offering a rare glimpse into the prehistoric era in the Czech lands.

Preliminary dating suggests the site dates back to the Middle Paleolithic period, around 126,000 to 115,000 years ago, during the Last Interglacial period. This discovery is significant for understanding the early history of the Bohemian Paradise area, according to Roman Sirovátka, an archaeologist at the Museum of the Bohemian Paradise in Turnov.

The discovery stands out due to its location. While several similar findings have been made in the region, they have all been in rocky environments, such as caves or overhangs. This site, however, is in an open landscape, marking it as a unique find. It was discovered at the site of a planned emergency services center in Turnov’s Vesecko district.

Features of the discovery
The team unearthed sunken structures, which they interpret as hearths, and some may also be remnants of shelters. Although further analysis is required, these initial findings suggest that the site could have been a more permanent settlement for a group of Neanderthals.

More:
https://www.expats.cz/czech-news/article/neanderthal-hunter-gatherer-site-uncovered-in-turnov

[SARose]

1. Wow!

I love stuff like this. Thanks!