Ancient bridge discovered in Mallorca, dating back 6,000 years

Researchers have discovered an ancient submerged bridge in Genovesa Cave on Mallorca, dating back nearly 6,000 years. This finding is significant as it provides insights into the timeline of human settlement on Mediterranean islands, suggesting that humans inhabited Mallorca much earlier than previously thought. The bridge, constructed from large limestone blocks, was likely built to create a dry path connecting the cave's entrance to a chamber beyond a lake within the cave. The study, led by Bogdan Onac from the University of South Florida, utilized mineral deposits and a distinctive 'bathtub ring' to estimate the bridge's construction date. The analysis revealed that the bridge was used for approximately 400 to 500 years before rising sea levels submerged it. This research helps to bridge the knowledge gap regarding the colonization of the western Mediterranean, where written records and archaeological evidence are scarce. In addition to the bridge, researchers found pottery in a chamber connected to the cave entrance, indicating that ancient humans may have utilized this area for living or storage. The exact purpose of the bridge remains uncertain, but it could have served various functions, including refuge or ritualistic activities. The findings suggest that the bridge may represent an early form of human engineering on the island. Overall, this discovery not only sheds light on the early inhabitants of Mallorca but also hints at the evolution of more complex stone structures that emerged later. The research underscores the importance of understanding human adaptation to changing environments in ancient times.