Chiquihuite cave, Archaeological cave in Astillero Mountains, Mexico.
Chiquihuite cave is a limestone cave in the Astillero Mountains of Zacatecas State in northern Mexico, situated at approximately 2,740 meters above sea level. The rock formation creates a natural shelter roughly 1 kilometer above the valley floor below.
Excavations from 2012 to 2017 uncovered more than 1,930 stone artifacts, with some dating to approximately 30,000 years ago. This evidence indicates that humans inhabited this mountain region in the distant past.
The cave served as a workshop where ancient people extracted and shaped black and green limestone into tools, reflecting their skill in selecting and working with materials. This practical activity shows how inhabitants adapted to their mountain environment.
Access to the site requires specialized climbing equipment and an archaeological permit, as the location involves steep rock terrain. Basic services and accommodations are available in the valley settlement below, so plan accordingly before visiting.
Analysis of sediments revealed traces of Douglas fir DNA from approximately 28,000 years ago, indicating a forest environment that scientists did not previously know existed in this area. This discovery reshapes understanding of the region's ancient climate and landscape.
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