'Mind-blowing' ancient bones discovery sparked by family holiday
Summary
A chance visit during a family holiday led to significant archaeological discoveries in a cave beneath Pembroke Castle in Wales. Experts found rare bones and stone tools dating back over 120,000 years, showing evidence of early humans and animals like a hippopotamus. A major five-year study will now explore the site further.Key Facts
- The cave, called Wogan Cavern, is located under Pembroke Castle, an 11th-century castle in Wales.
- Archaeologist John Bolton discovered the cave’s potential after hearing it had not been fully dug out before.
- Small digs between 2021 and 2024 uncovered rare bones of ancient animals, including a hippopotamus from 120,000 years ago.
- Stone tools related to early humans, including Homo sapiens and Neanderthals, were also found in the cave.
- Many UK caves were emptied during Victorian times, making this cave’s well-preserved state unique.
- The University of Aberdeen will lead a new five-year excavation project to study the site in detail.
- Scientists hope to use DNA from bones and sediment to learn about who lived there and when.
- The findings will remain in Pembroke for local preservation and future study.
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