Researchers have unearthed hundreds of prehistoric animal bones, including those of a mammoth and a cave lion in Poland’s Paradise Cave (Jaskinia Raj).

Raj (Paradise) Cave. Credit: Mariusz Cieszewski/Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland/Flickr

This cave, located in the Świętokrzyskie region, stands out as one of Poland’s most notable archaeological sites, boasting approximately 47,000 stalacтιтes formed within limestone rocks dating back around 360 million years.

Led by Małgorzata Kot from the University of Warsaw’s Faculty of Archaeology, the ongoing research aims to shed light on the cave’s history, which has remained relatively obscure despite its prominence. Kot emphasized the lack of comprehensive investigation since initial exploration in the 1960s, which revealed an abundance of animal bones and evidence of Neanderthal visits.

With advancements in laboratory techniques over the past six decades, researchers are now equipped to delve deeper into the cave’s past. The current excavation efforts, although covering a modest area of approximately five square feet, have already yielded intriguing findings, including well-preserved bones of bears, cave lions, and mammoths, along with reindeer antler fragments.

Dr. Małgorzata Kot from the University of Warsaw is pictured during excavations in Poland’s Paradise Cave. Excavations at the cave have uncovered hundreds of prehistoric animal bones. Credit: David Lukasik/University of Warsaw

The team remains optimistic about uncovering additional artifacts, potentially numbering in the thousands, as excavation progresses. This optimism stems from the realization that both Neanderthals and modern humans inhabited the cave.

Beyond documenting these discoveries, the project aims to understand the broader context of prehistoric climate and environmental changes in southern Poland, spanning a period from roughly 60,000 to 14,500 years ago. This endeavor involves analyzing remains from multiple caves in the region, seeking correlations between human settlement strategies and environmental conditions.

Central to the research is the validation of hypotheses regarding the purpose of reindeer antlers found at the site. Kot suggested the possibility that Neanderthals utilized these antlers for protective measures at cave entrances.

The meticulous process of collecting, sorting, and cleaning soil samples from Paradise Cave is underway at the European Center for Geological Education, a research facility affiliated with the University of Warsaw’s Faculty of Geology.

Looking ahead, the research team plans to expand excavation efforts in the coming months, with larger-scale work scheduled for June and July.

The significance of Paradise Cave extends beyond its archaeological value; since its discovery by students from a Kraków school in 1964, it has captivated visitors with its stunning mineral formations. Opening to the public in 1972, the cave continues to attract thousands of tourists annually.