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Morocco

Dederiyeh Cave

Neanderthal burial site in Syrian cave

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

Location

About

Dederiyeh Cave, located in Mount Simeon, Syria, is a significant archaeological site primarily known for its Middle Paleolithic occupation. Systematic excavations have been conducted since 1987, uncovering the remains of up to fifteen individuals, predominantly Neanderthal children, within the cave's layers. Notably, two Neanderthal children were discovered, with evidence suggesting intentional burial practices, illustrating early funerary behaviors. The cave's structure includes a large chamber with a secondary exit through a chimney, positioned on a wadi bank at 450 meters altitude. This site provides valuable insights into Neanderthal life, including their burial customs and habitation patterns, contributing to our understanding of human evolution and prehistoric societies.

Gallery

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FileDederiyeh.Two-year-old_Neanderthal.jpg

Archaeological Features

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Burial and Funerary Structures

Graves

Domestic and Habitation Structures

Caves

Historical Timeline

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Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Morocco
Source
Wikipedia