Ice Age Europe Magazine

Shaping the future, preserving the past: The solar facade of the Neanderthal Museum

Bärbel Auffermann, Neanderthal Museum, September 2025

The Neanderthal Museum Foundation operates a museum at the world-famous site of the Neanderthal discovery, offering an innovative exhibition concept and a wide range of educational programmes that attract a broad public. The museum building itself is a landmark: a closed, elongated oval concrete structure, clad with a distinctive glass facade, and characterised by a gently rising ramp that emerges from the ground.

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Eiszeitwesen. The Materials of Art Over the Past 40 000 Years.

Jeany Weisheit, Museum of Prehistory Blaubeuren, March 2025

The production of artificial objects has been known for hundreds of thousands of years and, especially in the Swabian Jura, we value the finely crafted mammoth ivory artefacts that are known all around the world as unique. Among these are the oldest figurine of a human, the so-called Venus of the Hohle Fels, several animal figurines like the Little Mammoth, the Waterbird, and the Wild Horse, the Adorant, as well as the Lion Man. Besides these magnificent objects, flutes made of bird bones and mammoth ivory as well as jewellery of the same material are also included on the list of Ice Age art.

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Stjepan Vuković: Pioneer of Experimental Archaeology in Croatia

Eduard Vasiljevic, Krapina Neanderthal Museum, December 2024

Stjepan Vuković, the pioneer of experimental archaeology in Croatia, conducted documented experiments since the late 1920s, focusing on replicating Paleolithic and Neolithic tools. His extensive work was recognized in 1974, and his collection of 129 objects was later donated to the Museum of Krapina Neanderthals, where it has been digitized for future research. The collection includes tools, notes, sketches, and correspondence, offering valuable insights into historical methods and materials.

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Real Experts: Exploring Neanderthals and Human Identity

Dustin Welper, Neanderthal Museum, November 2024

An interdisciplinary research project at Erasmus University Rotterdam, focused on what studying Neanderthals can teach about human identity, engaged the public in collaborative research. The participants, dubbed "Paleo Experts," posed detailed scientific questions, broadening researchers' perspectives and challenging existing assumptions. Their involvement led to critical discussions, particularly on the nature of Neanderthal-modern human encounters, which influenced the reinterpretation of historical narratives.

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Grotta di Fumane and Archeovea Impresa Culturale: revitalizing the archaeological site

Nicolò Scialpi, Chiara Zen, University of Ferrara/ Francesco Garbasi, ArcheoVea Impresa culturale, October 2024

Grotta di Fumane, a key prehistoric site in Europe, is now managed by Archeovea Impresa Culturale, which aims to enhance cultural and archaeological heritage. The site has reopened to the public with regular hours, offering educational programs and guided tours by archaeologists, alongside active research by the University of Ferrara. ArcheoVea is also focused on developing new methodologies for engaging visitors and creating a network among cultural institutions, while expanding its digital presence to connect with a broader audience.

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The Pearls of the Swabian Jura

Jeany Weisheit, Museum of Prehistory Blaubeuren, September 2024

For 40,000 years, people in the Swabian Alb have adorned themselves with remarkable jewelry, a tradition now showcased in two newly designed rooms at the Museum of Prehistory in Blaubeuren. Visitors are invited to explore the rich history of jewelry-making, highlighting the incredible craftsmanship of Ice Age artisans.

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Stone Age Adventures: Explore the Neandertal World of Discovery. New Attractions at the Neanderthal Museum

Melanie Wunsch, Neanderthal Museum, August 2024

Explore the Neanderthal Museum's newest feature, the Höhlenblick Tower, where visitors can experience the historic site of the Feldhofer Grotte. This tower offers barrier-free access, interactive exhibits, and a unique view of the Neander Valley as it once was.

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With the Neanderthal Man in Art, Design, and Animation

Lorka Lončar Uvodić, Krapina Neanderthal Museum, August 2024

"With the Neanderthal Man in Art and Design" and "With the Neanderthal Man in Animation" are educational programs organized by the Krapina Neanderthal Museum from 2019 to 2022. These programs aimed to connect the Museum with high school students, particularly local youth.

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