In a groundbreaking archaeological discovery, Moroccan researchers have uncovered more than 80 human footprints dating back some 100,000 years, believed to be the oldest in North Africa. This surprising discovery on the coast of Larache sheds new light on the early movements and activities of Homo sapiens in this region.
A research team led by archaeologists from Morocco, Spain, France and Germany has unearthed footprints left by at least five people, including children, suggesting early human groups crossed the coast in search of food and shellfish. are doing. Anas Sedrati, curator of the Rixus-Larash site, said the group was likely fishermen or gatherers, and the discovery provided a glimpse into their daily lives and activities.
Archaeologists in Morocco have unearthed more than 80 human footprints, believed to be the oldest in North Africa, dating back some 100,000 years.
Footprints left by five Homo sapiens, possibly including a child, were discovered on the beach in the city of Larache in 90 AD. pic.twitter.com/zHwY9UVkwF
— World Times (@WorldTimesWT) February 7, 2024
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The study, published in the prestigious scientific journal Nature, hails the footprints as some of the best-preserved human footprints in the world and is an important tool in understanding human history in North Africa and the southern Mediterranean. It was an important milestone. The discovery underscores the region’s pivotal role in the origin and evolution of Homo sapiens.
The significance of the discovery transcends its age, with researchers highlighting the importance of preserving the site amid the threat of rising sea levels and storms. Muunsef Sedrati, head of the research project, recognized its value in unraveling the mysteries of human history and stressed the need to preserve this great heritage for future generations.
Additionally, the new discovery suggests that further discoveries may be made as sediment continues to erode along the coastline. Anas Sedrati expressed optimism about the discovery of further traces that could provide valuable insights into the life and behavior of early Homo sapiens along the Moroccan coast.
This latest breakthrough builds on previous archaeological discoveries in the region, including the discovery in 2017 of Homo sapiens remains dating back 300,000 years in northwestern Morocco. . Taken together, these discoveries paint a rich tapestry of human presence and activity in North Africa, supporting the presumed discovery of hominins. It provides interesting clues about the origins of our species and our evolutionary journey.
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Cover image source: Twitter