Scientists reveal face of 10,500-year-old Belgian woman
- The remains of a woman dating back to 10,500 years ago were found in Belgian caves in 1988.
- Recent DNA technology enabled scientists to reconstruct her face, revealing lighter skin and blue eyes.
- A public naming poll has been initiated for this prehistoric figure, with her reconstruction set for a museum exhibition.
In Belgium, the remains of a prehistoric woman, known as the Margaux woman, were discovered in the Margaux caves in 1988. Recent advances in DNA technology have enabled scientists to create a synthetic reconstruction of her face, revealing features that include blue eyes and lighter skin compared to others from the same era. The woman is believed to have lived approximately 10,500 years ago in the Meuse Valley, during the Mesolithic period when the landscape was vastly different, marked by dense forests and rivers. The reconstruction was led by the Kennis brothers, who are known for their work with prehistoric hominids, including Neanderthals and Ötzi the Iceman. Professor Isabelle De Groote of Ghent University stated that the Margaux woman was likely between the ages of 35 to 60 at the time of her death, although the exact cause of death remains unknown as no obvious signs were present on her skull. Habitations during her time consisted of seasonal camps where hunter-gatherers crafted tools and relied on the natural environment for survival. With this new information, researchers are inviting the public to help name the prehistoric figure, providing three options: Margo, Freya, and Mos'anne. Each name corresponds to significant geographical features related to where her remains were found. Voting will continue until the end of June, after which a traveling exhibition featuring the reconstruction will begin visiting museums across Belgium starting in September. This initiative aims to educate the public about prehistoric lifestyles and the technologies employed in modern reconstructions. Overall, the unveiling of the Margaux woman’s face marks a significant development in anthropology, providing insight into the physical attributes and lifestyle of early European inhabitants. The findings not only offer a glimpse into the past but also engage contemporary audiences in exploring their ancestral heritage, fostering a sense of connection to the long history of human existence in Europe.