Archaeologists have uncovered new remains up to 26 thousand years old at Abrigo do Lagar Velho in Santa Eufémia, Leiria, the site where the famous ‘Criança do Lapedo’ was discovered, the municipality has announced. Findings from the first excavation phase, ongoing since December 2024, include faunal remains, worked stone tools, bones, and charcoal fragments, according to a statement from Leiria City Council.

“These findings contribute decisively to understanding the occupations of the site at that time,” the statement noted, referring to the terminal Gravetian and middle Solutrean cultures, between 26 thousand and 24 thousand years ago. Evidence suggests that the site may have had a residential and long-term character.

Excavations are focused on a cavity in the shelter wall, known as "Testimony Hanging", which has preserved Paleolithic sediments from shortly after the burial of the ‘Criança do Lapedo’, dated 29 thousand years ago. A multidisciplinary team, including archaeologists, civil engineers, geographers, geotechnicians, and geophysicists, is leading the project. Findings are currently being analysed at the Apariços Archaeology Laboratory, located in a former primary school in Santa Eufémia.

Part of the Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR), the excavation is part of a broader effort to stabilise and protect the historic site, which suffered a landslide in late 2022.


The goal is to safeguard and enhance the Abrigo do Lagar Velho, allowing visitors and researchers to access this cultural and natural heritage. “These efforts are essential,” stated Councillor for Culture, Anabela Graça, adding that future plans include new routes and improved conservation measures to ensure the site's accessibility and long-term preservation.