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Russia

Mezmaiskaya cave

Prehistoric cave with Mousterian artifacts

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

About

Mezmaiskaya Cave, located in the northwestern foothills of the North Caucasus in Russia, is a significant archaeological site known for its Middle and Upper Paleolithic Mousterian artifacts. The cave's stratigraphy reveals evidence of Neanderthal occupation dating from approximately 70,000 to 40,000 years ago. Notably, it has yielded the remains of three Neanderthal individuals, including the well-preserved infant Mezmaiskaya 1 and the child Mezmaiskaya 2. These finds offer insights into the burial practices and genetic lineage of Neanderthals in this region, contributing to the understanding of Neanderthal population dynamics. Additionally, faunal remains in the cave suggest human hunting activities, with stone tool marks present on various animal bones. This site is crucial for understanding the interaction between Neanderthals and their environment during the Paleolithic era.

Archaeological Features

Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

Burial and Funerary Structures

Graves

Domestic and Habitation Structures

Caves

Environmental and Natural Features

Modified Caves

Historical Timeline

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Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Russia
Source
Wikipedia

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