Hohlenstein-Stadel

Hohlenstein-Stadel is a cave in the Lonetal valley of the Swabian Jura, Germany, renowned as the discovery site of the Lowenmensch (Lion-Man), a mammoth ivory figurine dated to 35,000-41,000 years ago -- one of the oldest known pieces of figurative art. The sculpture was found on 25 August 1939 by geologist Otto Volzing during excavations led by Robert Wetzel, but World War II delayed analysis for decades. Archaeologist Joachim Hahn first reassembled over 200 fragments in the 1960s, and a major restoration in 2012-2013 incorporated newly discovered pieces. The figurine was found in a chamber 30 metres from the cave entrance alongside bone tools, worked antlers, and jewellery, suggesting possible ritual use of the space.