Ancient bone may be first physical evidence of Hannibal's elephants in Western Europe

Archaeologists in Córdoba, Spain uncovered an elephant ankle bone dated to about the early 4th–late 3rd century BCE, and it was found with stone artillery projectiles that researchers say point to a military context.

Archaeologists working at the Colina de los Quemados site in Córdoba, Spain recovered an elephant ankle bone that they dated to roughly the early fourth to late third century BCE. The discovery was reported in a study published in the Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports. Researchers highlight that the bone was found alongside spherical stone artillery balls and other weapons. The timing and material context led the authors to discuss links with Carthaginian use of war elephants during conflicts with Rome. What is known: - The bone was excavated at the Colina de los Quemados archaeological site in Córdoba. - Radiocarbon dating places the specimen in the early fourth to late third century BCE. - Twelve spherical stone balls and other projectile remains were found in the same deposit, which researchers describe as likely military material. - The study notes that a single bone in isolation does not confirm the whole animal was present; it might have been moved or kept as an object. - Authors and outside experts point to Carthaginian use of war elephants and classical accounts of Hannibal as context for interpreting the find, but they describe the association as the most plausible explanation rather than a proven fact. Summary: The researchers present the bone and associated weaponry as potential physical evidence of Carthaginian war elephants in western Europe, a connection that aligns with classical reports of Hannibal's campaigns. They emphasize the interpretive limitations of a single bone and call for careful study of museum collections and future excavations to seek further remains. Undetermined at this time.