Deep within Ice Age sediments in southern England, archaeologists have made an extraordinary discovery of two colossal prehistoric hand axes, one measuring approximately one foot in length.

These ancient tools, estimated to be 300,000 years old, consist of flint slabs expertly chipped on both sides, resulting in sharp, serrated edges. They were among more than 800 artifacts unearthed on a hillside above the Medway Valley in Kent.

Senior archaeologist Letty Ingrey from the UCL Institute of Archaeology referred to these tools as “giants” when they measure over 22 centimeters long, and the team found two axes of this size, Business Insider has reported.

One of these hand axes, around 12 inches in length, is described as “one of the longest ever found in Britain,” as stated by Ingrey, who participated in the excavation.

These types of tools were commonly utilized for animal butchery or skinning purposes, according to archaeologists.

However, the sheer size of these particular hand axes poses a challenge in envisioning how they were effectively wielded.

Ingrey suggests that they may have served a less practical or more symbolic function compared to other tools, potentially representing a demonstration of strength and skill.

During the time these hand axes were in use, the Medway Valley site teemed with game such as deer, horses, and now-extinct species like straight-tusked elephants and lions that once roamed the region, as indicated by the press release.

Written by staff