While exploring one of Mexico’s largest underwater cave systems, divers discovered artifacts that predate even the pyramids. The search took place in the Sac Actun cave system, which is now flooded but was apparently once free of water.
It is known that the cave was used for rituals even during the Mayan heyday. But more detailed studies revealed the presence of even more ancient artifacts. In total, scientists recovered 198 artifacts, some dating back nearly 9,000 years.
The most interesting thing is that the cave contains even more ancient relics. In addition to human footprints, divers discovered traces of creatures that inhabited the planet during the Ice Age. The cave system turned out to be a true slice of time!
Giant sloths, bears, and gomphotheres—scientists have yet to identify all the animals of antiquity.
The cave was also used as a temple—depictions of images that have not yet been deciphered are visible on the walls. This is further evidence that the sea level was significantly lower and the cave was inhabited.
