Introduction
Meet our ancient relative, reconstructed! Scientists have unveiled a 3D model of a Neanderthal woman, based on remains found in Iraq’s Shanidar Cave. This groundbreaking project provides a window into the life of Neanderthals, who roamed the earth 75,000 years ago.

Dr Emma Pomeroy has been entrusted with the precious skull, which is on loan from the Kurdish authorities

The Reconstruction Process
The challenge began with the delicate remains of a Neanderthal skull, discovered in pieces so fragile they resembled “a well-dunked biscuit.” Specialists meticulously reinforced and pieced together these fragments, culminating in a detailed 3D model by expert paleoartists.

Bringing History to Life
The model features in the BBC Studios’ new Netflix documentary, “Secrets of the Neanderthals,” exploring the rich history and culture of these ancient beings. Dr. Emma Pomeroy from the University of Cambridge shares her excitement, describing the model as a bridge to understanding our distant cousins.

Neanderthals were long regarded as a brutish, unsophisticated species, but no longer

Insights from the Shanidar Cave
The cave, an archaeological treasure trove, has yielded numerous Neanderthal remains over the years. The latest find, the “Shanidar Z” skeleton, includes significant portions of the upper body, offering profound insights into their physical characteristics and potential lifestyle.

The skull was largely all present, too, but squashed into a 2cm (0.7in)-thick layer, probably by a rock that had fallen from the roof of the cave at some point in the distant past.

The Value of the Original Skeleton
While the 3D model fascinates many, the original skeleton remains invaluable. It holds clues to the Neanderthal’s health, age, and even possible burial practices, challenging earlier perceptions of Neanderthals as simple and brutish.

Conclusion
The project not only reconstructs the appearance of a Neanderthal woman but also redefines our understanding of this extinct species. It highlights their sophisticated cultural practices, possibly including ritualistic burials, suggesting a complex social structure.

Meta Description
Discover the face of a 75,000-year-old Neanderthal woman through a stunning 3D reconstruction in the new Netflix documentary. Learn how she connects us to our ancient past.