Neanderthals may have buried their dead with flowers

History
Neanderthals may have buried their dead with flowers

Ancient discoveries suggest Neanderthals may have buried their dead with flowers, revealing surprising evidence of ritualistic behaviors and emotional depth among our extinct human relatives.

Neanderthals, often seen as brutish, might have buried their dead with flowers, hinting at complex rituals. In Iraq's Shanidar Cave, a 60,000-year-old Neanderthal burial site revealed high concentrations of wildflower pollen. This suggests intentional placement, indicating emotional or spiritual awareness previously thought unique to modern humans.

There's more to this story — open the app to keep reading.

Continue Reading in App
1 more paragraphs · plus a 2-question quiz
Open in App

Get the full experience

Download Facts A Day