June 30, 2012

Oldest Neolithic bow of Europe found in Catalonia

One of the oldest preserved bows of Europe and, so far, the oldest one found in a Neolithic context, has been unearthed in the lacustrine site of La Draga (Banyoles, Catalonia). The bow is made of yew wood (an all-time favorite material for archery) and measures 108 cm and is dated to c. 7400-7200 years ago from context, being among the earliest dates for Neolithic in Western Europe. 

Older bows are known in Europe, specifically Denmark, but are from the Epipaleolithic period, some 9000 years ago. What could be arrow points are known from c. 64,000 years ago in South Africa.

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