Iran

Qaleh Kurd

Prehistoric cave site with human activity evidence

Location

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Historical Context

About

Qaleh Kurd cave is a significant archaeological site located on the western edge of the Iranian Central Plateau, near the village of Qaleh in Qazvin province. It holds the distinction of being the oldest prehistoric site in Iran, with evidence of human occupation dating back to the Middle Pleistocene, approximately 452,000 to 165,000 years ago. This site is crucial for understanding early human settlements and their movements between the Levant and Asia. Archaeological findings from the cave include Chibanian assemblages, human remains, animal bones, and Neolithic artifacts, indicating a long history of human activity. The cave's location amidst the Alborz and Zagros Mountains further emphasizes its strategic importance in prehistoric times.

Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Temporal Epochs

Historical Timeline

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Middle Pleistocene Human Activity

-452000 to -165000 years ago

Classification

Archaeological Features

Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

category

Domestic and Habitation Structures

Caves
category

Environmental and Natural Features

Modified Caves
Knowledge Base

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Reference

Details

Country

Iran

Coordinates

35.80° N, 48.86° E