The presence of copper-processing hearths at such a high elevation suggests a society with the organisation to manage both advanced mineral extraction and ceremonial burials. It highlights their ability to innovate for survival in one of Europe’s harshest landscapes.
Archaeologists find 5,000-year-old child’s bones and advanced ancient tech in Spain’s Pyrenees
At Cova 338, the most surprising discovery is 23 hearths specifically built for malachite processing, as noted in the study published in Frontiers. This ‘ancient technology’ enabled prehistoric people to extract copper at an altitude once thought unsuitable for such activities. This finding indicates that these early communities had advanced mineral and thermal knowledge; they strategised to process ore at its source rather than transport the ore into the valleys.
In doing so, they transformed the cave into a high-altitude production site.
Evidence of multi-functional high-altitude occupation
Among the remains of an industrial site, archaeologists discovered a finger bone and a child’s milk tooth; the child was around 11 years old, as noted in a report on Phys.org. These finds create a poignant glimpse into the past, showing that families lived in these high-altitude areas, not just workers with specific skills. The presence of this child implies the cave was used for both industrial and communal life.
This challenges the common belief that the high Pyrenees served only as seasonal hunting grounds.
Art and jewellery at 2,200 meters
According to the study published in Frontiers, archaeologists found an important collection of jewellery, such as pendants made from bear teeth and shells from the Antalis sea creature. Discovering these sea shells over 2,200 meters high shows there were extensive maritime trade routes linking mountain people to the Mediterranean or Atlantic shores.
People likely used these items during funerals or as symbols of status.
This indicates that even with their demanding work in mining, these ancient communities had a vibrant cultural and symbolic life.
The resourceful societies of the high Pyrenees
For many years, scientists thought that people only passed through high-mountain areas briefly during their migrations. Yet, discoveries at Cova 338, such as permanent hearths and a wide range of artefacts, show that these communities were permanently anchored in the Alpine regions. This finding challenges previous ideas about Neolithic and Bronze Age movement patterns. Ancient humans didn’t just pass by; they settled here and made use of every resource they could find, from malachite to shelter high in the mountains, to create societies that were not only complex but also technologically advanced amidst the mountainous terrain.
