Scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery at an ancient cave in Spain, uncovering bone fragments that belong to the oldest known human face in western Europe. The fossils, found in the Sima del Elefante (Pit of the Elephant) cave near Atapuerca in Burgos, date back 1.4 million years and are believed to be from an adult member of an extinct human species.
The discovery suggests that at least two forms of early humans inhabited the Iberian peninsula during the early Pleistocene era. Researchers also found evidence of a humid woodland rich in wildlife and rivers, which would have provided a unique environment for the early humans to thrive.
According to Dr. Rosa Huguet, the team leader who helped uncover the fossils, the discovery introduces a new actor in the story of human evolution in Europe. The fossil, nicknamed “Pink” after the Pink Floyd album title that translates to “The Dark Side of the Moon,” has distinctive features similar to those of Homo erectus but is more primitive.
Researchers have designated the species as Homo affinis erectus due to its close relationship with Homo erectus. This find provides new insights into the lifestyle and appearance of early Europeans, which are believed to be closely related to that of Homo erectus. The excavation at Sima del Elefante has also revealed a unique combination of features in the fossil, highlighting the need for further discoveries to confirm its identity.
The discovery is significant as it sheds light on the origins of human evolution in Europe and provides new clues about the early inhabitants of the region. Further research is needed to understand the full implications of this groundbreaking find.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/science/2025/mar/12/bone-fragments-of-oldest-known-human-face-in-western-europe-found-in-spain