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gibraltar caves project

This project was started in 1994 when Ibex Cave, at the top of the watercatchments on the east side of the Rock of Gibraltar, was excavated. Since 1995 annual excavations have been conducted by an international multi-disciplinary team in Gorham's and Vanguard Caves also on the east side but at sea level. These sites were occupied by Neanderthals during the Middle Palaeolithic from at least 90 thousand years ago until around 31 thousand years ago, making this site one of very late occupation. Deposits above those of Neanderthal occupation show evidence of more recent occupation by Modern Humans during the Upper Palaeolithic, Neolithic and eventually from the 8th to the 3rd Centuries BC by Phoenicians and Carthaginians. A major aspect of the project has been the study of the effects of climate on the environment in Gibraltar and adjacent areas of the Iberian Peninsula.

The fossil articulated wing of a Blue Rock

Gibraltar Caves Project

2003 Season ONLINE