Ancient Humans in Italy Harvested Elephants for Meat and Tools 400,000 Years Ago

Ancient Humans in Italy Butchered Elephants for Meat and Tools A team of archaeologists has uncovered evidence that early humans near Rome butchered elephants 400,000 years ago for both food and tools. The findings, published in the journal PLOS One, reveal a consistent prehistoric strategy for resource use during warmer Middle Pleistocene periods. According to Beniamino Mecozzi, lead researcher from Sapienza University of Rome, "The discovery at Casal Lumbroso site shows that early humans were highly adaptable and efficient in utilizing available resources." The team found hundreds of bones and stone implements with impact marks from butchery, indicating a systematic approach to exploiting elephant carcasses. Butchering Elephants for Survival During the Middle Pleistocene era, which spanned from 2.6 million to 11,700 years ago, early humans faced significant challenges in finding food and resources. The warmer climate would have made it easier for elephants to roam and thrive, providing a reliable source of meat and materials. Mecozzi explained that the butchering of elephants was likely a crucial aspect of early human survival. "The use of animal carcasses as a resource was not just limited to food; they also provided valuable materials for tool-making," he said. Background and Context The Casal Lumbroso site, located near Rome, has been the subject of extensive excavations in recent years. The area has yielded numerous artifacts and fossils from the Middle Pleistocene era, providing a unique window into the lives of early humans. Implications for Society The discovery highlights the resourcefulness and adaptability of early humans. As Mecozzi noted, "This finding demonstrates that our ancestors were capable of exploiting available resources in a systematic and efficient manner." The study's implications extend beyond the realm of archaeology, offering insights into human evolution and the development of complex societies. Current Status and Next Developments The research team plans to continue excavations at Casal Lumbroso, with a focus on further analyzing the artifacts and fossils. Mecozzi expressed his enthusiasm for future discoveries: "We are eager to uncover more secrets about our ancient ancestors and their interactions with the environment." As researchers delve deeper into the past, they may uncover new evidence of early human resourcefulness and adaptability. The discovery at Casal Lumbroso serves as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of our ancient forebears. Sources: Beniamino Mecozzi et al., "Butchery marks on elephant bones from the Middle Pleistocene site of Casal Lumbroso (Italy)," PLOS One, October 8, 2025. Sapienza University of Rome press release. *Reporting by Sciencedaily.*