Evidence of Cannibalism Among Early Humans Unearthed in Spain

Recent archaeological findings at the Gran Dolina cave in Atapuerca, Spain, have unveiled compelling evidence of cannibalism practiced by Homo antecessor, an ancient relative of modern humans. A cervical vertebra belonging to a toddler aged between two and five years has been discovered, showing distinct cut marks indicative of butchering, which suggests that this child was treated as prey approximately 850,000 years ago.

This significant discovery was reported on July 24, 2025, by Palmira Saladié, co-director of the excavation team. Saladié emphasized the precision of the cut marks, stating, "It is direct evidence that the child was processed like any other prey" (Saladié, 2025). This finding is particularly notable as it not only provides insights into the subsistence strategies of early humans but also raises questions about the social dynamics within Homo antecessor groups.

The Gran Dolina site has been a focal point for archaeological research since the discovery of Homo antecessor in 1997, a species that appears to be a critical link in the human evolutionary tree. While the exact position of H. antecessor remains debated—whether it is a direct ancestor of Neanderthals and modern humans or an offshoot—its significance in understanding human evolution is undeniable. Saladié noted, "Every year we uncover new evidence that forces us to rethink how they lived, how they died, and how the dead were treated nearly a million years ago" (Saladié, 2025).

The excavation at Gran Dolina revealed a total of ten skeletons this month, many of which displayed defleshing cuts and fractures typically associated with animal remains. Approximately 30% of the bones previously uncovered at the site also exhibit similar marks, reinforcing the notion that cannibalism was a recurring practice among these early humans. Saladié remarked, "What we are documenting now is the continuity of that [cannibalism] behavior. The treatment of the dead was not exceptional, but repeated" (Saladié, 2025).

The implications of these findings extend beyond the immediate evidence of cannibalism. They suggest that Homo antecessor may have utilized both their own kind and other prey species as resources, indicative of complex social structures and territorial behaviors. This perspective aligns with previous research highlighting the existence of cannibalism among early human species as a survival strategy during periods of resource scarcity.

Moreover, this discovery positions Gran Dolina as an essential site for understanding human evolution in Europe. It provides the earliest definitive evidence of cannibalism among human relatives, predating earlier contested evidence from Kenya. The continued excavation of the site is expected to yield further insights into the behaviors and lives of Homo antecessor, potentially illuminating aspects of early human social organization and dietary practices.

As archaeological efforts progress, researchers remain optimistic about uncovering additional remains that could clarify the enigmatic nature of Homo antecessor and their practices. The ongoing studies at Gran Dolina not only enhance our understanding of early human life but also challenge existing narratives about human evolution and dietary habits.