Traditionally, research into the origins of art, of symbols, has considered this creative capacity to be associated exclusively with our species, Homo sapiens.
The application of new dating techniques now makes it possible to argue that earlier human groups, such as the Neanderthals, developed artistic expression. Studies in the caves of La Pasiega, Ardales and Maltravieso confirm the first non-figurative expression inside the caves. These data are consistent with other data (pendants, body decoration, burials, etc.) that propose a break with the traditional paradigm that holds that symbolism is an exclusive and singular capacity of our species.
