Ancient ritual gathering space discovered in Israel's Manot Cave

Researchers have discovered a 37,000-year-old chamber in Manot Cave, Israel, believed to have been used for ritual gatherings. The space could hold up to 100 people and features a carved boulder and deer antler linked to spiritual practices. The chamber's natural acoustics and ash traces indicate it was used for torch-lit ceremonies. This discovery highlights the cave's role in collective rituals during the Aurignacian period, which is known for its distinctive tools and cultural artifacts. Radiometric dating confirms the age of the chamber and its artifacts, providing insights into early ritualistic behavior in the Middle East. The findings draw comparisons to similar practices in European caves, enhancing understanding of ancient spiritual activities.