Archaeologists Discover World’s Oldest Wooden Structure in Zambia

Archaeologists working near Zambia’s Kalambo Falls have discovered the world’s oldest wooden structure, dating back to approximately 476,000 years ago. This remarkable find, made from the logs of a large-fruited willow tree, predates the emergence of Homo sapiens and challenges previous notions about the cognitive abilities of ancient ancestors.

The newly discovered wooden structure is the oldest known example of its kind, surpassing the previous record-holder by over 400,000 years. Its discovery sheds light on a significant breakthrough in early human innovation, suggesting that our ancestors were more advanced than previously thought.

The structure’s location above the Kalambo River’s 770-foot waterfall suggests that its creators likely stayed in the location for extended periods, showcasing advanced skills, planning, and cognitive abilities. The use of wood in this way implies a higher level of intelligence among these early humans than previously believed based solely on stone tools.