Spain uncovers Western Europe's oldest human facial bones

Scientists in Spain have discovered fossilized facial bones, nicknamed "Pink," that may belong to a new human ancestor. These bones, found in 2022, are estimated to be 1.1 to 1.4 million years old, making Pink the oldest face in Western Europe. The fossils were excavated at the Atapuerca site, near where the previous oldest human remains, Homo antecessor, were found. Pink's facial structure is more primitive than that of Homo antecessor, suggesting a different evolutionary path. Researchers noted that Pink resembles Homo erectus, leading to its provisional classification as Homo affinis erectus. However, the incomplete nature of the fossils means further study is needed to confirm its classification.