Archaeologists have discovered the oldest human ancestor fossil in western Europe, found in northern Spain in 2022.

The partial skull, dating back 1.1 to 1.4 million years, includes a section of the left cheekbone and upper jaw.

This marks the first significant remains older than 1 million years in the region.

The fossil, resembling Homo erectus, suggests early human ancestors were exploring Europe, though it’s unclear if they permanently settled there, the Associated Press has reported.

The discovery adds to significant findings from the Atapuerca Mountains, which have also revealed fossils from Neanderthals and early Homo sapiens.

Written by B.C. Begley