JERUSALEM, June 12 (Xinhua) -- Israeli archaeologists have discovered a rare prehistoric cave dating back around 300,000 years in northern Israel, providing insights into early human life, the Israel Antiquities Authority said in a statement on Thursday.
The researchers described the cave as a "time capsule" because it remained sealed for hundreds of thousands of years, preserving evidence of life from a little-known period of prehistory.
They said the site, uncovered near the town of Fureidis, south of Haifa, dates to the Acheulo-Yabrudian culture, which existed near the end of the Lower Paleolithic era. Only a small number of sites from this period have been found in Israel and the wider Levant, making the discovery especially important.
Archaeologists uncovered stone tools, animal bones, and evidence of water sources that likely attracted hunter-gatherers. Remains of deer, gazelles, and ancient horses were also discovered.
The researchers said that the cave's preservation will provide valuable insights into early human life, technology and social development. ■
