The oldest evidence of humans keeping domesticated cats is 9500 years old archeologists discovered cat bones and human bones in a neolithic grave in cyprus that dates back to 9 8 bc

The Oldest Evidence of Humans Keeping Domesticated Cats

Did you know that the oldest evidence of humans keeping domesticated cats dates back a staggering 9500 years? Recently, archaeologists made an intriguing discovery in Cyprus that shed light on our long history of feline companionship. In a Neolithic grave that dates back to 9-8 BC, archaeologists uncovered both cat bones and human bones, providing strong evidence of the ancient bond between humans and cats.

This groundbreaking discovery has attracted global attention as it changes our understanding of our early relationship with our feline friends. The findings were originally reported in a BBC article, which you can find here. In this article, we will delve deeper into this fascinating discovery and explore the significance it holds for our understanding of human history and the bond between humans and cats.

The Neolithic grave in Cyprus provides a remarkable snapshot of ancient life. Within this burial ground, researchers found the remains of both humans and cats laid to rest side by side, pointing to a deep connection between these two species. These findings provide concrete evidence that cats were not merely tolerated by humans in ancient times but were in fact cherished and regarded as companions.

Cats have captivated and charmed humans for thousands of years, and this discovery in Cyprus reinforces what feline lovers have long believed: cats have been our companions and confidants since ancient times. The domestication of cats revolutionized human civilization, particularly in terms of agriculture as they played a vital role in controlling rodent populations that threatened crops.

Moreover, this discovery challenges previous assumptions about the timeline of cat domestication. Until now, Egypt was often credited with being the birthplace of the human-cat bond, with evidence of domesticated cats dating back around 4000 years. However, this newfound evidence from Cyprus pushes that timeline back by thousands of years, showcasing the deep-rooted nature of our connection with cats that has spanned countless civilizations.

The discovery of cat bones alongside human bones in the Neolithic grave in Cyprus provides significant insights into the lives of our ancient ancestors. It highlights the reverence and companionship that cats offered to humans even in ancient times. It is a testament to the enduring bond that exists between humans and their feline friends, a bond that has only grown stronger over the centuries.

In conclusion, the uncovering of cat bones and human bones in a Neolithic grave in Cyprus has revealed the oldest evidence of humans keeping domesticated cats, dating back an astounding 9500 years. This discovery challenges previous assumptions about the timeline of cat domestication, pushing it back by thousands of years. It illuminates the enduring bond between humans and cats throughout our shared history, a bond that continues to bring joy and companionship to countless people worldwide. For more information on this groundbreaking discovery, read the original BBC article here.