Apidima Cave
Apidima cave is located west of Areopolis. Apidima is called a number of caves that lie between Diros and Limeni. The cave was created as a result of the karstic disintegration of the limestones of the area. Paleoanthropological investigations and archaeological excavations (which began in 1978) in cavernous pits have revealed many archaeological and anthropological findings. The findings include stone and bone Paleolithic tools, traces of fire, numerous remains of animal bones, and serious evidence regarding the treatment of the dead and burial customs of Paleolithic people.
Two of the most important findings are skulls, at least 160,000 years old. The skulls have been called Apidima 1 and Apidima 2 and were found at a distance of 15 cm from each other. One skull, in fact, more than 210,000 years old, has features derived from modern humans, and, if the identification is correct, it is the oldest known specimen of Homo sapiens that has been found outside Africa.
The skeleton of a woman, about 20 years old, given the name "Cinnamon" by the excavating team, has also been found in the cave. The skeleton's age was estimated to be 30.000 years and belonged to Cro-Manion. It is believed to have been buried in an embryonic posture, with a rectangular plate placed under the head and a round stone at the feet. Together, they found various animal bones (such as an intact young deer leg) considered food offerings. Finally, in the area of the chest of the dead body, there were identified 43 artificially pierced, tiny seashells, which should have been decorative elements of the young woman's necklace.
