Discover the World’s Oldest Fingerprint: A 43,000-Year-Old Neanderthal Remarkably Preserved!

In Spain, researchers discovered a remarkable artifact: a rock with a red dot that is about 43,000 years old. This dot could be the oldest human fingerprint ever found, made by a Neanderthal—the closest extinct relative of modern humans. Neanderthals lived in Europe for hundreds of thousands of years before vanishing around 40,000 years ago.

The red dot, created using red ocher, has sparked debate among experts. While some believe it represents a nose on the rock—giving it a face-like appearance—others aren’t convinced it’s symbolic at all. Bruce Hardy, an anthropologist from Kenyon College, emphasized that while the fingerprint was applied intentionally, calling it symbolic is subjective. “Symbolism is in the eye of the beholder,” he said.

This discovery challenges the notion that Neanderthals lacked artistic ability. The study, published in “Archaeological and Anthropological Sciences” on May 5, highlights the significance of this find. The rock comes from the San Lázaro rock shelter near Segovia, where Neanderthals thrived between 44,000 and 41,000 years ago, with no evidence of early modern humans in the area.

Experts like Rebecca Wragg Sykes, a paleolithic archaeologist, suggest that the dot could have different meanings. “It might represent something beyond what we can see today,” she noted, indicating that interpretations can vary widely. Paul Pettitt, from Durham University, recognizes the use of red pigment by Neanderthals but agrees that the intent behind the dot remains unclear.

Interestingly, the rock’s features—its size and shape—make it look a bit like a potato. The dot beneath suggested eyebrows transforms it into a primitive face. This find could be the most significant evidence of the Neanderthal mind at work, showcasing their ability to symbolize and imagine.

Recent studies continue to explore the artistic capabilities of Neanderthals, with other discoveries suggesting they might have created abstract art as early as 75,000 years ago. This shifts how we view these ancient humans and their cultural expressions, allowing them a greater depth than previously thought. Today, social media is buzzing with reactions to this find, with many expressing awe over the creativity of our Neanderthal relatives.

For more details on the study and its implications, you can read about it through the [National Research Council of Spain](https://www.csic.es/es/actualidad-del-csic/hallan-la-huella-dactilar-humana-mas-antigua-del-mundo).

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