A team of archaeologists has discovered the earliest known multifunctional tool made from cave lion bone, dating back around 130,000 years. The ancient utensil, carved from a single cave lion tibia, consists of four tools that were likely used for tasks such as chiseling and later broken down to shape or sharpen flint tools.
The discovery was made in the Scladina Cave in Belgium and sheds new light on Neanderthal ingenuity. The analysis of the bone revealed signs of deliberate shaping, use, and repurposing, indicating that Neanderthals had a high level of cognitive skill and adaptability.
This find challenges the popular myth of primitive Neanderthals and highlights their resourcefulness in utilizing cave lion bones for practical purposes. While little is known about their relationship with cave lions, this discovery provides insight into their hunting practices and tool-making techniques.
The bone tools were likely chosen because of their size, shape, and structural integrity, which made them suitable for a variety of tasks. Further research will help clarify the functions of these tools and provide insights into Neanderthal behavior and interactions with other animals.
Source: https://phys.org/news/2025-07-prehistoric-swiss-army-knife-cave.html