Scientists at Ghent University in Belgium have shared a lifelike reconstruction of a woman who lived over 10,000 years ago in the Mesolithic era. Using a blend of ancient DNA, archaeological finds, and artistic interpretation, they brought to life the face and world of a hunter-gatherer woman who once lived in what is now Belgium.

Back in 1988–1989, archaeologists discovered the remains of this woman in the Margaux cave near Dinant, in the Meuse River valley. She belonged to a Mesolithic group of Western European hunter-gatherers, the same group as the well-known "Cheddar Man" from Britain.

Interestingly, her burial site included the remains of eight other women, a rare and unexpected discovery, as Mesolithic graves typically contain men, women, and children together.

Detailed studies of her DNA revealed she had blue eyes, just like Cheddar Man. However, she had a slightly lighter skin tone compared to others from her time. Dr. Maite Rivollat, the lead geneticist on the project, noted that this small difference in complexion was a "minor but crucial detail."

Ghent University archaeologist Isabelle De Groote shared that the “Meuse Woman” was from the same ethnic group as Cheddar Man but looked slightly different. “We could also infer from the skull that she was between 35 and 60 years old,” she told CNN.

One of the most striking aspects of her face is her prominent nasal bridge and noticeable brow ridges, which are uncommon for a woman. “She also has noticeable brow ridges, even though she's a woman,” De Groote added.

The woman's face was reconstructed using high-quality DNA taken from her skull. “Quite good quality DNA was extracted from the woman's skull so that a very detailed reconstruction could be made,” said archaeologist Philippe Crombe.

Her facial features — eyes, skin, and hair — were based entirely on ancient DNA analysis. Meanwhile, details like possible tattoos, jewelry, and clothing were imagined using archaeological finds from the region, such as tools, shells, and remnants of camps.

The lifelike reconstruction was created in partnership with Dutch artists Kennis and Kennis, known for their work on prehistoric humans, and researchers from the ROAM project (Regional Outlook on Ancient Migration). This international team included archaeologists, geneticists, bioanthropologists, and artists.

Together, they recreated not just a face but a glimpse into the daily life of a woman who lived more than 10 millennia ago. From her appearance to the world she lived in, the “Meuse Woman” offers a rare, science-backed window into Europe’s deep human past.

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