A surprising archaeological find in Spain is changing our understanding of Neanderthals. In the cave of Prado Vargasnorth of Spain, have been found 15 marine fossils dating back to a period between 39,800 and 54,600 years ago. Despite the apparent ordinariness of the remains – shells and echinoderm remains – their discovery 20 kilometers from the sea and in perfect condition suggests an intentional collection, driven more by curiosity than utility.
The fossils found in the cave show no signs of processing or practical use. Scholars hypothesize that they were collected for pure aesthetic or symbolic appeal. Among the finds, examples such as the smooth Tylostoma shells hey Tetragrammaton sea urchin. The researchers propose that these collections may represent an artistic interest or symbolic connection to the natural environment, anticipating abstract thinking previously attributed solely to Homo sapiens.
This behavior links to findings in other areas, such as Pech de l’Azé in France, where a brachiopod fossil was transported 30 kilometers, or Tata, in Hungary, where fossil shells were transformed into ornaments.
The innate curiosity of Neanderthals: very similar to us?
One of the most fascinating aspects of the find concerns the hypothesis that Neanderthal children collected these fossils. The researchers compare this activity to the modern habit of children of collecting objects such as figurines or shells. Furthermore, the discovery of a baby tooth in the same cave strengthens this theory.
The fossils may also have taken on a ritual or spiritual value. They may have been used for story telling, in educational contexts or even in magical-religious activities. This pushes us to reconsider Neanderthals not only as utilitarian beings, but as individuals endowed with a symbolic sensitivity and aesthetic research.
The discovery in the Prado Vargas cave enriches the narrative of Neanderthals as beings capable of appreciating beauty and attributing symbolic meanings to objects. This view contrasts with the traditional image of Neanderthals as crude and primitive, opening up new perspectives on their intellect and culture.
