An ancient child’s skeleton was discovered 27 years ago in Lagar Velho, a rock shelter in central Portugal. The nearly complete skeleton was stained red, which suggests that it might have been wrapped in painted animal skin before being buried. Some features of the child’s body, such as proportions and jawbone shape, were similar to Neanderthal characteristics. This led scientists to believe that humans and Neanderthals may have interbred. Advances in genetics have confirmed that humans today still carry Neanderthal DNA. However, determining the skeleton’s exact age was challenging due to contamination and plant roots that grew through the bones, which affected traditional carbon dating methods.

In recent years, scientists have used advanced techniques to successfully date the child’s remains. Researchers measured proteins found in human bones and discovered that the child lived between 27,700 and 28,600 years ago. This method has improved the accuracy of dating the skeleton. The research provides important insights into human evolution and the relationship between humans and Neanderthals. Archaeologist Paul Pettitt said that the study demonstrates how new techniques help understand human history better. Studying human origins helps us learn more about our ancestors and their lives.