History of the discovery of Neanderthal man

Hidden in a narrow rocky gorge near Mettmann, a discovery was made in 1856 that would change our view of humanity forever—the discovery of Neanderthal man. This is the subject of the first section of the Neanderthal Museum exhibition.

Rabenstein - Überbleibsel des Kalksteinabbaus im Neandertal

The discovery of Neanderthal man – A place makes history

The original Neander Valley was a spectacular, narrow rocky gorge. The Düssel River had carved deep into the limestone, creating a landscape that attracted painters, nature lovers, and later quarry workers. Intensive limestone mining caused the original gorge to disappear. However, since 1921, part of the valley has been a nature reserve—a refuge for animals, plants, and researchers.

Erwachsene bestaunen Skelett auf Erlebnisturm Höhlenblick bei Firmen- und Teamevent

The sensational discovery in the Feldhofer Cave (1856)

Bones that changed everything

In August 1856, workers found bones in a small cave—the Feldhofer Grotto—that were later recognized as the first scientifically described remains of a fossil human: the Neanderthal. Today, you can see the famous find at the Neanderthal Museum.

J. C. Fuhlrott

Johann Carl Fuhlrott – The silent hero

Teacher Fuhlrott immediately recognized that this was a prehistoric human skeleton. It was a bold assessment that hardly anyone shared with him at the time.

Aussenansicht vom Erlebnisturm Höhlenblick

Does the cave where the Neanderthal was found still exist?

The original cave was destroyed by limestone mining. It was not until the late 1990s that archaeologists were able to relocate the site. Under meters of limestone debris, they discovered layers of clay containing tools, animal bones, and more Neanderthal bone fragments. Today, the Höhlenblick tower, which belongs to the Neanderthal Museum, stands on this site.

Wir Neanderthaler_Kurztour durch die Menscheitsgeschichte_Zwei Forscher begutachten Knochen des Neanderthalers

Why the discovery was so controversial

At the time of the discovery, the biblical story of creation was considered the only truth. A prehistoric human? Unthinkable for many. The idea contradicted the notion of a Earth that was only a few thousand years old.

Nachbildung von verschiedenen Menschenarten auf Stammbusch in Ausstellung

Darwin and evolution

Just three years after the discovery, Charles Darwin published his theory of natural selection. The Neanderthal became proof that humans had primitive ancestors. Today, you can discover the entire history of humanity at the Neanderthal Museum.

Erwachsene neben Infotafeln über Fundstelle am Erlebnisturm Höhlenblick

Science without recognition – Fuhlrott's legacy

Between genius and ignorance

Although Fuhlrott correctly classified the find, he was denied the fame it deserved. Opponents such as Rudolf Virchow blocked research for decades - until Fuhlrott's assessment finally prevailed.

Blick durch Sanduhr auf den Stammbusch der Ausstellung

Want to learn more about Neanderthals?

Then come to the Neanderthal Museum in Mettmann!

Just a few meters from the historic site where the remains were found, you can experience human history in an interactive and modern way.