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Oldest Cave Art Discovered in Indonesia, Alters Migration Theories

1/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The world's oldest known cave art, a hand stencil, was created in Liang Metanduno cave, Indonesia, dating to at least 67,800 years ago.
The discovery predates similar findings in Europe.
The hand stencil’s claw-like modification suggests complex cultural practices.
Ongoing research aims to uncover more evidence of human activity in Liang Metanduno.
The finding may support theories of migration into Australia via a northern route.

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Story summary

The world's oldest known cave art, a hand stencil, was created in Liang Metanduno cave, Indonesia, dating to at least 67,800 years ago.
The discovery predates similar findings in Europe.
The hand stencil’s claw-like modification suggests complex cultural practices.
Ongoing research aims to uncover more evidence of human activity in Liang Metanduno.
The finding may support theories of migration into Australia via a northern route.