Archaeologists from Europe and Africa have made an extraordinary discovery, unearthing the world’s oldest wooden structure that dates back almost half a million years. This remarkable finding suggests that a previously unknown species of hominids, predating Homo sapiens, may have been responsible for its creation.
The findings have been published in the prestigious scientific journal, Nature. According to the report, the researchers stumbled upon a wooden structure composed of two interconnected logs, joined together by a transverse neckline. The structure was found near the Kalambo waterfall in Zambia and has been dated to a remarkable 476,000 years ago. In the same vicinity, the researchers also discovered four wooden tools – a digging stick, a trimmed log, a wedge, and a jagged branch – all of which have also been dated to the time of modern humans.
“This discovery has completely changed my perception of our early ancestors,” said Larry Barham, a professor of archeology at Liverpool University and the lead author of the article. “We need to abandon the notion of a simple ‘Stone Age’ and appreciate the ingenuity and creativity of these ancient people. They displayed intellect, imagination, and skill to create something entirely new, something that had never existed before.”
The preservation of the wooden structure is attributed to the constant flooding of the Kalambo waterfall, which effectively isolated it from oxygen and bacteria that could have caused its deterioration. This find is particularly significant as wooden artifacts from the early Stone Age are rarely preserved, providing a unique window into the lives of our ancient ancestors.
In addition to the exciting discovery of the wooden structure, the researchers have highlighted that it provides a more complex understanding of the lives of these ancient hominids. Contrary to the belief that they were nomadic, it is now suggested that they may have spent extended periods of time in the area, utilizing the surrounding forests and the fresh water from the waterfall.
The Kalambo waterfall, which later became a habitat for Homo sapiens, has emerged as a treasure trove of archaeological finds dating back to the Stone Age. Its significance is so immense that it has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
This discovery of the world’s oldest wooden structure, created by early hominids, undoubtedly strengthens its place on the official list, emphasizing its significance in furthering our understanding of human evolution.