Stone tool, Sima de los Huesos
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Stone tool, Sima de los Huesos
Stone tool, Sima de los Huesos. This hand axe, called Excalibur, is the only stone tool to be found at Sima de los Huesos (Pit of Bones). It is carved in red quartz, a rock that is not often found in the regions. Archaeologists believe that Excalibur was placed at the site, which is known to have been used as a cemetary 400, 000 years ago, as an offering. Sima de los Huesos is one of several archaeological sites in Sierra de Atapuerca, Spain, that have been studied on and off over the past century, leading to a massive advancement in the understanding of human evolution. In 2000, Sierra de Atapuerca was made a world heritage site by UNESCO
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Media ID 6343295
© JAVIER TRUEBA/MSF/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Anthropological Anthropology Archaeological Archaeology Artefact Artifacts Early Evidence Evolutionary Biology Excavated Hominid Human Evolution Humanity Lithic Artefacts Offering Palaentological Palaeoanthropology Paleoanthropology Pit Of Bones Prehistoric Tool Rare Sacrifice Sierra De Atapuerca Sima De Los Huesos Spain Stone Stone Tool Tools Unesco Unique World Heritage Site Cemetary Excalibur Palaeontology
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a remarkable stone tool known as Excalibur, discovered at the Sima de los Huesos archaeological site in Sierra de Atapuerca, Spain. Carved from rare red quartz, this hand axe stands out as the sole stone tool found amidst the Pit of Bones – a cemetery dating back 400,000 years. Archaeologists speculate that Excalibur was intentionally placed at this sacred site as an offering. Sima de los Huesos is part of a cluster of significant archaeological sites in Sierra de Atapuerca that have been extensively studied for over a century. These investigations have greatly contributed to our understanding of human evolution and earned UNESCO's recognition in 2000 as a world heritage site. The presence of Excalibur not only sheds light on early human industry and technology but also provides valuable evidence about ancient burial practices and beliefs. Its discovery adds another layer to our knowledge of humanity's past and highlights the intricate relationship between tools, artifacts, and our evolutionary journey. This photograph serves as a testament to the meticulous work carried out by anthropologists, paleontologists, and archaeologists who tirelessly excavate these sites. It symbolizes their dedication to unearthing invaluable insights into prehistoric life while unraveling the mysteries surrounding our own origins.
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