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Cave of Aroeira
39.5057° N, -8.6157° E
About
The Cave of Aroeira (European Portuguese pronunciation: [ɐɾuˈɐjɾɐ]) is an archaeological and paleoanthropological site in the Portuguese Estremadura Limestone Massif. The cave is located in the village of Almonda, in the civil parish of Zibreira, in the municipality of Torres Novas in the district of Santarém. The cave contained stones from the Paleolithic Acheulean culture, and the skull of Homo heidelbergensis, circa 400,000 years old. The discovery of Aroeira 3 was announced in spring 2017 - the earliest human trace in Portugal.
Historical Timeline
Journey through time and discover key events in this site's history
Younger deposits dated
60,000–40,000 years BP
Main horizon dated
c. 400,000 years BP
Excavations begin
1998
First investigations
1998–2002
Renewed fieldwork and cranium recovery
2013
Aroeira 3 announced
spring 2017
Archaeological Features
Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site
Domestic and Habitation Structures
Environmental and Natural Features
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan Your Visit
Tours, travel arrangements, and practical information
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