Neanderthals cannibalized 'outsider' women and children 45,000 years ago at cave in Belgium

Live ScienceMonday, November 24, 2025 at 3:01:05 PM
NegativeScience
Neanderthals cannibalized 'outsider' women and children 45,000 years ago at cave in Belgium
  • Fragmented Neanderthal bones found in a cave in Belgium indicate that one group of Neanderthals cannibalized women and children from another group approximately 45,000 years ago. This discovery sheds light on the social dynamics and survival strategies of Neanderthals during that period.
  • The findings are significant as they provide evidence of inter-group conflict and cannibalism among Neanderthals, challenging previous notions of their social behavior and dietary practices. Such insights contribute to the understanding of Neanderthal culture and their interactions with other groups.
  • This development raises questions about the cognitive and cultural capabilities of Neanderthals, including their potential for social bonding and emotional connections, as suggested by recent studies on their behaviors, such as kissing. The ongoing debate about their possible religious beliefs further complicates the narrative of Neanderthal life, indicating a complex social structure that may have included rituals or symbolic practices.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

Was this article worth reading? Share it

Recommended apps based on your readingExplore all apps
Continue Readings
Did Neanderthals have religious beliefs?
NeutralScience
The question of whether Neanderthals possessed religious beliefs remains a topic of ongoing debate among researchers and scientists. This inquiry into the cognitive and cultural capabilities of Neanderthals continues to challenge existing perceptions of these ancient humans.