Scientists: Neanderthals practised cannibalism

Scientists have analysed highly fragmented human bones of Neanderthals, which show signs of splitting, hitting and cutting - the same as on the bones of animals that the inhabitants of the site hunted, cut up and ate.

This indicates that the bodies were used for food and not subjected to any special rituals.

For the first time, the researchers were able to establish the biological profile of the victims. Genetic analysis showed that at least six individuals (labelled GNx - Goyet Neandertal x) belonged to a group not connected to the local community. In other words, they were "outsiders" and not members of the group that lived in Goyet.

The authors of the paper suggest that these people were probably brought or dragged into the cave with the intention of being consumed. The predominance of adult women and children among the victims points to selective action rather than random or chaotic violence.

The study fits into the context of the late Middle Palaeolithic, when there was a great cultural diversity of Neanderthal groups in northern Europe and the presence of Homo sapiens in neighbouring regions had already been recorded. Against this background, selective cannibalism towards 'outsiders' may reflect the increasing territorial conflicts and tensions between groups that preceded the extinction of Neanderthals in this region.

The findings are based on a decade of work with the Goye collection: scientists have analysed ancient DNA, radiocarbon dating, isotope studies to assess the geographical origins of humans, and virtual reconstructions of highly fragmented bones to reconstruct their shape and affiliation.