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Updated: Apr 24, 2026
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A rock engraving made by Neanderthals in Gibraltar
Joaquín Rodríguez-Vidal1, Francesco d'Errico2, Francisco Giles Pacheco3
1Departamento de Geodinámica y Paleontología, Facultad de Ciencias Experimentales, and Marine International Campus of Excellence (CEIMAR) Universidad de Huelva, 21071 Huelva, Spain;
Summary
Neanderthals created abstract engravings, challenging the idea that only modern humans possessed symbolic thought. This discovery of geometric art in Gorham's Cave provides evidence of Neanderthal abstract expression.
Area of Science:
- Paleoanthropology
- Archaeology
- Cognitive Evolution
Background:
- Symbolic behavior, such as cave art, is considered a hallmark of modern human cognition.
- Previous evidence suggested abstract expression was exclusive to Homo sapiens, differentiating them from archaic hominins like Neanderthals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present the first known example of abstract geometric engravings made by Neanderthals.
- To investigate the origin and nature of these engravings to understand Neanderthal cognitive abilities.
Main Methods:
- Excavation and analysis of archaeological layers in Gorham's Cave, Gibraltar.
- Geochemical analysis of epigenetic coatings on the engravings.
- Experimental replication of engraving techniques using lithic tools.
Main Results:
- Discovery of a deeply engraved cross-hatching pattern on bedrock in Gorham's Cave.
- Dating of the undisturbed Mousterian archaeological layer above the engraving to older than 39,000 years BP.
- Analysis confirmed the engraving was intentionally made by repeated use of a lithic tool, excluding utilitarian purposes.
Conclusions:
- Neanderthals possessed the capacity for abstract thought and symbolic expression.
- The engraved geometric pattern demonstrates a non-utilitarian, deliberate act of art by Neanderthals.
- This finding challenges established views on cognitive differences between Neanderthals and modern humans.
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