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World's Oldest Man-Made Wooden Structure Discovered In Zambia. Researchers from the University of Liverpool and Aberystwyth University have discovered the oldest wooden structure created by human ancestors. Their groundbreaking find, published in the journal Nature, stems from excavations at the Kalambo Falls archaeological site in Zambia. It dates back at least 476,000 years, predating the emergence of our own species, Homo sapiens. Expert examination of stone tool cut-marks on the wood indicates that these early hominids skillfully shaped and joined two substantial logs, likely laying the foundation for a platform or a segment of a dwelling. This finding represents the earliest evidence globally of deliberate wood crafting by human ancestors. Prior to this discovery, evidence of wood use by early humans was primarily associated with its role in fire-making, crafting digging sticks, and fashioning spears. Wood is rarely encountered at such ancient archaeological sites due to its susceptibility to rot and decay. However, at Kalambo Falls, consistently high water levels have preserved the wood. This revelation challenges the conventional belief that Stone Age humans led nomadic lives - indicating that some may have settled in hospitable sites like Kalambo. Professor Geoff Duller of Aberystwyth said he hopes the new research will help efforts to make the area a World Heritage Site. ”Our research confirms that this site is much older than previously believed, amplifying its archaeological significance,” he said. “This bolsters the case for its designation as a United Nations World Heritage Site."