Ancient Footprints Discovered During Construction
In a remarkable discovery, archaeologists have unearthed 26,000-year-old footprints of humans and animals in Madrid, Spain. The initial discovery was made by construction workers during a housing development project in the Mendez Alvaro district, revealing a site that once served as a unique settlement during the Ice Age.
A historic find amidst modern development
The construction workers stumbled upon the ancient footprints and a variety of stone artifacts, prompting an immediate halt to the project. The site was subsequently declared a BIC Asset of Cultural Interest to preserve its historical value. Archaeologists quickly mobilized, with a team of 30 experts, including geologists, technicians, paleontologists, and restorers, beginning an extensive excavation of the area.
Excavation uncovers Ice Age settlement
The excavation revealed that the site was a Pleistocene settlement, dating back to 26,000 years ago. Among the findings were footprints of rhinoceros and herbivores, indicating that these animals once roamed the area. Stone relics from the same period were also uncovered, solidifying the site’s significance as an Ice Age habitation.
Further investigations revealed that several rivers had merged on the paleosurface, making it a prime location for animals and humans to gather and drink water. This confluence likely explains the abundance of footprints found at the site.
Calls for an archaeological reserve
Speaking to The Olive Press, project researcher Juan Sanguinos mentioned plans to request that the Madrid City Council designate the area as an archaeological reserve for future investigations. “This site offers invaluable insights into the lives of humans and animals during the Ice Age,” he said.
Excavation head Pilar Oñate highlighted the uniqueness of the site, stating that it was more than just a drinking well. “Something like this was not known about in the center of the Iberian Peninsula, but previously only on the Cantabrian coast and generally in cave areas and shelters, rather than being in the open air,” Oñate explained.
The discovery has not only halted construction but has also ignited a new chapter in the study of prehistoric human and animal life in the region, promising further revelations as excavations continue.