Obi-Rakhmat Grotto

The Obi-Rakhmat Grotto, located in Uzbekistan, is a significant Middle Paleolithic archaeological site known for its Neanderthal fossils. Discovered in 1962, the cave features a rich stratigraphy with 22 distinct layers, indicating prolonged Neanderthal habitation. The lithic assemblages found at the site suggest a transitional industry between the Middle and Upper Paleolithic periods. The site's faunal remains, consisting mainly of Siberian mountain goat and red deer, indicate its use as a short-term hunting and butchery station by hominins. Notably, the discovery of a juvenile Neanderthal's cranial and dental remains offers insights into the morphology and genetic lineage of Neanderthals in Central Asia, connecting them to European populations. The site is dated to around 70,000 to 90,000 years ago, with some layers suggesting even older occupations.