Shamans and shamanism: terms that evoke an imagery of atavistic rituals, eerie masks, hallucinations and exotic places. But what really is shamanism? Who are shamans and what do they do? And, do they still exist?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Jeany Weisheit and Hannes Wiedmann, Museum of Prehistory Blaubeuren, June 2024
In 2017, UNESCO declared six caves in the Swabian Jura a World Heritage Site under the title "Caves and Ice Age Art in the Swabian Jura." Divided between two valleys, these include the Sirgenstein, the Geißenklösterle, and the Hohle Fels caves in the Ach Valley, as well as the Bockstein and Vogelherd caves and the Hohlenstein-Stadel in the Lone Valley. These sites were selected due to their incredible and unique archaeological finds and their significant contribution to understanding human history.
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