A global group of researchers has discovered the earliest known spear point in Europe, which they indicate was crafted by Neanderthals. As detailed in their publication,
published
in the
Journal of Archaeological Science
The team outlines the location and circumstances of where the spearpoint was discovered, along with its state of preservation and insights gained from their thorough examination.
In 2003, the spear point was discovered within a sediment stratum inside a cave located in the North Caucasus region of Russia. Alongside it were numerous animal bones and traces of an ancient hearth. However, detailed analysis of the spearpoint wasn’t conducted until quite recently.
The research group employed spectroscopy, computed tomography, and various microscopic methods and discovered that the spear point (measuring 9 centimeters in length) was crafted from an animal’s bone, presumably from a bison. Additionally, they found that it had been affixed to a wooden handle with some form of tar adhesive.
The team was also able to date the spear back to between 80,000 and 70,000 years ago. This predates the arrival of modern humans in Europe (approximately 45,000 years ago), leaving Neanderthals as the likely makers of the spear tip.
Further study of the spear tip showed that it had been shaped using stone tools, and that it had been used either in battle or for hunting—there were cracks showing it had struck something very hard. There were also no signs of long use, which the team suggests means it had likely been used successfully shortly after it was made.
The finding of the spear tip upends theories suggesting that Neanderthals never advanced past stone tools. It also shows, the team suggests, that Neanderthals were able to plan ahead, not only in making the tool, but in the way it was used.
The finding also raises another question: Why is it so unique? If Neanderthals were using bone spear tips to bring down prey, why are there not a lot of them left for modern researchers to find? The research team suggests that most probably decayed over time because they were not left in places conducive to their survival, such as the cave where this one was found.
More information:
Lyubov V. Golovanova and colleagues, Regarding the origins of bone-tipped hunting tools in Europe within the Mousterian period: Findings from Mezmaiskaya Cave in the North Caucasus,
Journal of Archaeological Science
(2025).
DOI: 10.1016/j.jas.2025.106223
© 2025 Science X Network
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