Discovering the Purpose of Perforated Bones in Denisov Cave: Insights from the Institute of Archeology and Ethnography

Discovery in Denisov Cave Reveals Ancient Use of Bones for Jewelry

Scientists of the Institute of Archeology and Ethnography of the branch of the Siberian Academy of Sciences have discovered the purpose of making holes in tubular bones discovered in Denisov Cave.

Historical Significance

Denisov Cave is located in the Solonichensky district of the Altai Territory. It is famous all over the world, as it is for the first time that the remains of an ancient species of humans – Denisovans, were found. In addition to other finds, such as a wreath and bones with regular holes.

Perforated Bones

It is noteworthy that the institute’s scientists found many perforated bones in Denisov Cave (one of the most famous archaeological monuments from the Paleolithic era located in Siberia), especially in its central hall, and the purpose of these perforations remained a mystery that baffled them.

Discovery of Use for Decoration

It has recently become clear to the Institute’s scientists that the purpose of piercing bones is to use them for decoration and making various jewelry.

Archaeologist Mikhail Shonkoff, chief researcher at the institute, points out that these perforated bones were used to decorate clothes and make bracelets and necklaces. These bones are about 40,000 years old, yet they are still in good condition, and traces of corrosion resulting from friction with skin, clothing, and laces are noticeable on them.

Scientist Shonkoff says: “The Altai perforated beads are very similar to the products of the Aurignacian civilization that existed in the same period in the Crimean Peninsula, but geographically they are very far from the complexes in Western, Central and Eastern Europe.”

The collection found by scientists in Denisov’s Cave includes 70 pieces of jewelry.

Other Discoveries in Denisov Cave

It is reported that scientists discovered in the 1980s in Denisov Cave the remains of a Denisovan human. Recently, scientists were able to extract DNA from the bones and decode it, and it became clear that it belonged to a special type of human. Scientists also found in this cave the remains of Neanderthal humans and long-extinct animals, such as the woolly rhinoceros, the American bison, and others.

Source: rg.ru

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