Scientists have made a significant discovery, unearthing the oldest known partial face fossil of a human ancestor in western Europe. The fossil, estimated to be between 1.1 and 1.4 million years old, was found in northern Spain and is believed to belong to an early human ancestor.
The discovery, published in the journal Nature, sheds new light on human history in Europe. According to experts, this find is significant because it shows that human ancestors were exploring Europe at a time when previously thought to be untouched.
The fossil, which includes a section of the left cheekbone and upper jaw, bears similarities to Homo erectus but also exhibits some distinct anatomical differences. Researchers believe that the discovery suggests human ancestors may have ventured into Europe around 1.8 million years ago, but it’s unclear whether these early humans persisted in the region.
This find is part of a larger collection of ancient fossils found in the Atapuerca Mountains cave complex in Spain, which also yielded significant clues to the ancient human past. The discovery has sparked renewed interest in the history of human migration and exploration.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/Technology/wireStory/archaeologists-uncover-oldest-partial-face-fossil-human-ancestor-119718624