Hidden Cave, Hippo Bones Under Welsh Castle May Rewrite History

A remarkable discovery beneath Wales' historic Pembroke Castle promises to rewrite our understanding of ancient life in Britain. Researchers have unearthed a prehistoric hidden cave, dubbed Wogan Cavern, containing a treasure trove of hippo bones and compelling evidence of early human habitation, including potential Neanderthal presence. This find is being hailed as a "once-in-a-lifetime discovery," offering an unparalleled glimpse into a world that existed long before the castle itself stood sentinel over the landscape.

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There is no other site like it in Britain -- it is a once-in-a-lifetime discovery.

The scale and preservation of the Wogan Cavern are extraordinary. Unlike other sites, this cave appears to be a remarkably intact "prehistoric archive." Initial findings suggest human activity spanning multiple periods, from hunter-gatherers after the last Ice Age to early Homo sapiens and possibly even earlier Neanderthals. The presence of hippo bones, dating back around 120,000 years, alongside remains of mammoth, woolly rhinoceros, and reindeer, paints a vivid picture of Britain's ancient fauna and climate.

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Despite the limited work done so far, we can already say that Wogan Cavern is a truly remarkable site.

For Wales, this discovery is more than just an archaeological marvel; it is a profound connection to our deep past. The University of Aberdeen's five-year project, utilizing cutting-edge scientific techniques, will delve into the secrets held within this cavern. The potential to gain insights into past climate change, extinct species, and the complex tapestry of human evolution on this island is immense. This is not just about uncovering bones and tools; it's about understanding the very earliest chapters of human history in Britain, right here in Wales.

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Not only is there extremely rare evidence for early Homo sapiens, there are also hints at even earlier human occupation, probably by Neanderthals.

From a Welsh perspective, the Wogan Cavern at Pembroke Castle is a unique national asset. While international media reports focus on the scientific implications, for us, it represents a tangible link to the earliest inhabitants of our land. It adds an incredible new dimension to the rich history of Pembroke Castle, a site already steeped in significance as the birthplace of Henry VII. This discovery ensures that the story of Wales continues to unfold, revealing layers of history that challenge and enrich our collective memory.

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We have also found hippo bones, which probably date to the last interglacial period, around 120,000 years ago.