Researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery at a cave in Spain: the oldest human face known in western Europe. The fossilized remains, found in the Sima del Elefante cave, include a left cheek and upper jaw of an ancient human who lived between 1.1 and 1.4 million years ago.
This finding implies that more than one early human species thrived in the Iberian Peninsula during the early Pleistocene. At that time, the area was rich in wildlife, marked by lush woodlands and flowing rivers. Dr. Rosa Huguet from the University of Rovira i Virgili noted, “This paper introduces a new actor in the story of human evolution in Europe.”
Early humans began venturing out of Africa around 1.8 million years ago. Notably, five skulls discovered in Dmanisi, Georgia, belong to Homo erectus, which is the earliest known species to migrate from Africa. Previously, the oldest remnants in western Europe were said to be between 1.1 million and 1.2 million years old, derived from jawbones and teeth also found in the same cave.
The research published in the journal Nature suggests that the newfound remains are more primitive than those of Homo antecessor—the first species recognized in Europe—but show similarities to Homo erectus. As a result, researchers have named this new species Homo affinis erectus, highlighting its link to its ancient relatives.
Interestingly, the fossil has a nickname: “Pink,” inspired by Pink Floyd’s album "The Dark Side of the Moon," specifically the title "La cara oculta de la luna," or "the hidden face." Dr. María Martinón-Torres, who leads the National Centre for Research on Human Evolution in Burgos, states that Pink’s nasal structure is flatter compared to Homo antecessor, which had more modern facial features.
Chris Stringer from the Natural History Museum in London referred to this find as “very important.” In 2023, Stringer and his team noted a significant cooling period around 1.1 million years ago, possibly pushing early humans out of western Europe—an event that could explain the different population identified at Sima del Elefante later on.
Archaeological work at Sima del Elefante reveals a vibrant ecosystem. More than a million years ago, this area featured thick meadows and woodlands with diverse trees like oaks and junipers. The ecosystem supported various species, including hippos, bison, and deer. Researchers have also uncovered ancient tools and animal remains showing signs of butchering.
Further details about the lifestyle of these early humans are indicated by a unique tooth wear mark found on the Pink fossil, believed to be from an early version of a toothpick.
Dr. José María Bermúdez de Castro, co-director of the Atapuerca Project, remarked, “We now know that this first species had an appearance reminiscent of the specimens included by many in Homo erectus." He added that finding more fossils from similar sites will provide a clearer picture of this species.
This fascinating discovery not only sheds light on early human evolution in Europe but also highlights the importance of ongoing research to deepen our understanding of our ancient ancestors.
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