New electron spin resonance (ESR) ages from Geißenklösterle Cave: A chronological study of the Middle and early Upper Paleolithic layers

New electron spin resonance (ESR) dating of fossil tooth enamel from Geißenklösterle Cave, Germany, reveals that Neanderthals occupied the site during Marine Isotope Stage 5 to the second half of MIS 3, approximately between 94 ± 10 ka and 55 ± 6 ka. This study also confirms the antiquity of early Aurignacian deposits, dating them to around 37 ± 3 ka, aligning with previous radiocarbon, thermoluminescence, and ESR results. The presence of a nearly sterile geological horizon (GH 17) suggests a possible abandonment by Neanderthals during Heinrich Stadial 5 (ca. 49-47 ka), preceding the arrival of Homo sapiens around 42 ka cal BP. These findings significantly contribute to understanding the chronological framework of human occupation in the Swabian Jura, providing critical insights into the transition between Neanderthals and modern humans.

Richard, M., Falguères, C., Valladas, H., Ghaleb, B., Pons-Branchu, E., Mercier, N., Richter, D., & Conard, N. J. (2019). New electron spin resonance (ESR) ages from Geißenklösterle Cave: A chronological study of the Middle and early Upper Paleolithic layers. Journal of Human Evolution, 133, 133–145. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhevol.2019.05.014