The 40,000-year-old boomerang discovered by archaeologists in the Oblazowa Cave in Poland is recognized not only as the oldest throwing weapon in Europe but also in the entire history of humankind, reported plosone.org. This discovery was made with the participation of an international group of scientists from Italy, Switzerland, Poland, and other countries.
Although the boomerang was discovered back in 1985, modern technologies revealed that its true age is between 42.3 and 39.3 thousand years. This object, skillfully made from mammoth tusk and measuring 72 centimeters in length, according to researchers, indicates the astonishing technological knowledge and capabilities of people from that era.
According to archaeologists, the boomerang is very well preserved, and the grooves on it show that it was specially designed for right-handed throwing. However, its aerodynamics suggest it was not meant to return — it was most likely used for hunting or possibly for cultural and ritual purposes.
This ancient tool was found alongside human bones, fox-tooth ornaments, and various stone tools, which gives a deeper understanding of the life and lifestyle of Homo sapiens of that period. As noted by Sara Talamo from the University of Bologna, the shape and craftsmanship of the boomerang demonstrate the remarkable calculating abilities of those people.
Researchers believe this find once again proves that Paleolithic humans — that is, early Homo sapiens — differed sharply from Neanderthals in terms of technology and behavior. They had great experience in processing mammoth tusks, performing aerodynamic calculations, and crafting hunting tools.
Interestingly, until this discovery, the oldest known boomerangs were found in Australia and dated back only 20,000 years. The Polish artifact is nearly twice as old. This suggests that throwing weapons were invented independently in different parts of the world.
In short, the 40,000-year-old boomerang found in the Oblazowa Cave opens a new chapter in human history. This item is not just a hunting tool but a reflection of the thinking, calculation, and technological advancement of the people of that time. Now science faces a new question: in which other regions might similar ancient tools be discovered? This finding will undoubtedly serve as a new source of inspiration for historians and archaeologists. Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!
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