Historic Discovery Levant’s Oldest Ritual Site Unearthed in Galilee Cave

Israeli archaeologists have uncovered the oldest known communal worship site in the Levant, dating back approximately 35,000 years. The discovery, made in the Manot Cave in the Western Galilee, offers a unique glimpse into the spiritual practices of Paleolithic hunter-gatherers.

The ritual site, enclosed by natural stalagmites, features a turtle shell-shaped rock engraved with intricate geometric patterns. Researchers from the University of Haifa, Ben-Gurion University, and Tel Aviv University announced their findings on Tuesday in the peer-reviewed journal PNAS.

“The engraved rock was deliberately placed in the cave’s deepest, darkest part, suggesting significant spiritual or symbolic meaning,” explained Dr. Omry Barzilai of Haifa University. “Its design might represent a totem or mythological figure, providing a window into the spiritual world of ancient communities.”

The ritual complex was separated from daily activity zones near the cave’s entrance, marked by ash remains indicating torchlight use. Acoustic tests revealed enhanced sound properties in the area, suggesting it was designed to amplify communal rituals such as singing, prayer, and dancing.

“This discovery provides unprecedented evidence of communal rituals in the Levant,” said Tel Aviv University’s Prof. Israel Hershkovitz. “The darkness, often tied to themes of rebirth and renewal, would have made the site deeply sacred.”

The ritual site dates back to the emergence of the Aurignacian culture, known for symbolic artifacts and cave art in Europe. In addition to the engraved rock, researchers uncovered flint tools, shell beads, and a deer antler with signs of use, possibly tied to rituals.

“Antlers were key tools in Upper Paleolithic cultures, and their deliberate placement underscores a connection to the cave’s spiritual activities,” said Barzilai.

To confirm that the turtle-shell engravings were man-made, researchers used a confocal microscope, revealing fine micro-linear scratches indicative of advanced artistic abilities.

“The engravings show a deep cultural connection to symbols and highlight the sophistication of these early communities,” said Tel Aviv University Prof. Rachel Sarig, who led the analysis.

3D mapping further revealed the intentional design of the sacred space, reinforcing its importance to the community.

Manot Cave has been systematically excavated since 2010 and is renowned for yielding the oldest modern human fossil outside Africa. This new discovery adds to its significance, offering groundbreaking insights into the social and spiritual evolution of early humans.

“Identifying communal rituals from the Paleolithic era is a breakthrough, providing a profound connection to our ancient ancestors,” said Barzilai.

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