Time Periods
Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Time Periods
Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial 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
Domestic and Habitation Structures
Environmental and Natural Features
Historical Timeline
Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history
Plan Your Visit
Details
- Country
- Russia
- Source
- Wikipedia
More Sites in Russia

Mamontovaya Kurya
Palaeolithic site with stone artifacts

Tolbaga
Upper Paleolithic site with animal sculpture.

Shulgan-Tash Cave
Limestone karst cave with Paleolithic paintings

Ignatievka Cave
Large limestone cave with ancient paintings.

Tmutarakan
Medieval trading town, Kievan Rus principality

Stone labyrinths of Bolshoi Zayatsky Island
Ancient stone labyrinths on Russian island