Archaeologists working near Zambia’s Kalambo Falls have recently discovered the world’s oldest wooden structure.
The structure, made from the logs of a large-fruited willow tree, was intentionally created approximately 476,000 years ago. This remarkable find provides valuable insights into the cognitive skills of our early ancestors and challenges our understanding of Stone Age life.
The structure consists of two interlocking logs joined using an intentionally cut notch. It is believed to have been created by a species known as Homo heidelbergensis, which lived between 700,000 and 200,000 years ago. This species had a larger brow, larger braincase, and flatter face compared to earlier human species.
The discovery of this wooden structure suggests that early humans possessed greater cognitive abilities than previously believed. The intentional shaping of trees required considerable skill, tools, and planning. The effort involved in constructing such a framework indicates that the makers likely stayed in the location for extended periods, challenging the prevailing notion of Stone Age people as nomadic.
The structure could have served multiple purposes, including providing a walkway or platform raised above the seasonally wet surroundings. It could have been used for storage of firewood, tools, and food or as a foundation for a hut.
This find also sheds light on the use of wood by early humans. While stone tools have traditionally been associated with early human activity, the discovery of this wooden structure suggests that early humans had greater cognitive abilities than previously believed.
It is important to note that no skeletal remains have been discovered at the site. However, numerous wooden tools from the same time period were found in close proximity to the structure.
The discovery of this ancient wooden structure in Zambia provides valuable insights into our early ancestors’ cognitive abilities and challenges our understanding of Stone Age life. Further research and excavation at the site may reveal additional information about our ancient past.