Neanderthals' Wooden Toolkit Revealed in Spanish Cave

A systematic review of nearly 600 wooden objects from the Abric Romaní cave in Spain has shown that Neanderthals used wood as much as stone. Only 13 pieces were confirmed as Neanderthal-made, including two spears, a club‑like weapon, a tripod, timber trays and structural poles. The objects were preserved as wood grain imprints in travertine, charred remains and intact timber, allowing researchers to analyse their form and manufacture. The spears required straight shafts and pointed ends, while the club had a distinct handle and asymmetrical head, a design not seen elsewhere. These findings demonstrate that Neanderthals possessed sophisticated woodworking skills comparable to early Homo sapiens, revealing a hidden half of their everyday toolkit.