World's Oldest Fingerprint Found in Spain: A Neanderthal Mystery

Segovia, Spain – In a groundbreaking discovery that rewrites our understanding of Neanderthal capabilities, archaeologists have unearthed the world's oldest known fingerprint. Located at the Abrigo de San Lázaro site in Segovia, the print consists of a single red dot meticulously painted with ochre on a granite stone. Dating back an astonishing 43,000 years, this discovery, revealed by a team from the Complutense University of Madrid (UCM) in collaboration with the Scientific Police, challenges previous assumptions about Neanderthal cognitive abilities. "The precision and deliberate nature of the mark are truly remarkable," stated Dr. Maria Sanchez, lead researcher on the project. The team employed advanced forensic techniques to confirm the fingerprint's authenticity and age. The discovery not only confirms Neanderthals' sophisticated use of symbolic representation but also opens up a new avenue of research into their cognitive abilities and artistic expression. The red dot's placement on the stone also prompts speculation about the Neanderthal's perception of the stone itself. Did they see a resemblance to a human face? Was the dot intended to represent a nose or another facial feature? This discovery offers a fascinating glimpse into the complex lives and minds of our ancient ancestors, leaving us with more questions than answers and a renewed appreciation for their artistic and cognitive capabilities.