Archaeologists Discover Prehistoric Mountain Cave Packed With Mysterious Green Mineral

Archaeologists at Cova 338 in the eastern Pyrenees found repeated occupation layers with 23 hearths, burned green mineral fragments resembling malachite, and child remains.

Radiocarbon dating shows the cave was used again and again over roughly 2,000 years, far earlier and more intensively than expected for such a high-mountain site.

The finds include symbolic jewelry, suggesting the cave may have supported specialized activity, possible copper processing, and ritual practices.

Researchers from IPHES-CERCA, the University of Granada, and collaborators say the discovery reshapes views of prehistoric settlement, resource use, and mountain cave life.