Mezmaiskaya cave

Mezmaiskaya cave is a limestone cavern in the Apsheronsky District mountains featuring one large main chamber connected to narrow side passages. The entrance stands several meters tall, with the ground transitioning from rocky surfaces to clay as you move deeper inside.

Systematic excavations began in 1987, revealing layers of occupation spanning different periods of human habitation. The site shows evidence of both Middle and Upper Paleolithic peoples living here across thousands of years.

The discovery of a complete Neanderthal infant skeleton in Layer 3 represents the youngest Neanderthal remains ever found in archaeological research.

Access requires preparation as you must navigate through varying passages and interior conditions are damp and uneven. Proper clothing and lighting are essential to move safely through the different sections.

Excavations uncovered a complete skeleton group of a Neanderthal child, representing the youngest known individual of this species ever discovered. This find holds major importance worldwide for understanding Neanderthal life in this region.