Ancient Human Footprints Discovered in Saudi Arabia

Archaeologists in northern Saudi Arabia have uncovered human footprints estimated to be 115,000 years old, marking the oldest known traces of humans on the Arabian Peninsula. Found at a lakebed site known as Alathar, these footprints suggest that early Homo sapiens inhabited the region, likely using it as a transient stop for water during a dry climate period before the Ice Age. The discovery includes seven well-preserved footprints among hundreds of prehistoric animal tracks, indicating a diverse ecosystem. Researchers believe these footprints were left quickly, as there is no evidence of hunting tools or prolonged human settlement in the area. The findings challenge previous assumptions about early human migration and highlight Arabia's role as a critical pathway out of Africa. Overall, this discovery provides valuable insights into the adaptability of early human populations in response to environmental changes.