Ancient Esparto Sandals Unearthed in Spanish Bat Cave
Esparto sandals, dating back 6,200 years, have been discovered in the Bat Cave in southern Spain, making them the oldest known footwear in Europe. The cave, which was once a source of natural nitrogen, contained a cemetery with partially mummified human remains and various funerary items, including baskets and around 20 sandals made with esparto grass. The discovery sheds light on the craftsmanship of hunter-gatherers and Neolithic farmers, as well as the enduring use of esparto grass in southeastern Spain. The dry conditions of the cave preserved the organic materials, providing valuable insights into prehistoric cultures.