Two mammoths at Predio Diana, Chapultepec, CDMX

Evidence of worked bone in early human groups

Abstract

It is rare for cases of worked bone in Mexico to refer to the obtaining of mammoth pieces. This study focuses on the discovery of mammoth bone remains in "El Predio Diana", located near the current entrance to Chapultepec Castle in Mexico City. During the archaeological rescue of the Diana Electric Substation, the remains of megafauna, especially mammoths, were indisputably discovered. Excavations covering an area of over 1,700 m² and reaching depths of up to 24 metres revealed the remains of two mammoths. The traces of use on the mammoth ivory pieces prove that they were used as two scrapers, a core, and a chisel. The remains date back to approximately 18,000 years ago, which proves that humans were present in the area at that time. These findings are crucial for understanding mammoth hunting and early human occupation in the Mexico Basin.