25,000-Year-Old Mammoth-Bone Hut Discovered in Russia – Possibly the Oldest Known Human Dwelling
Archaeologists in Russia have uncovered an extraordinary 25,000-year-old structure built from the bones of more than 60 mammoths, believed to be the oldest example of human architecture ever discovered. This large, circular hut was likely constructed during the last Ice Age, a period of extreme cold and environmental stress.

The hut includes clear evidence of controlled fire use inside, suggesting it served as a dwelling or gathering space—possibly for a chief or leader, given its size and complexity. Surrounding the structure, mammoth remains buried in the ground may indicate food storage practices.

Experts note the effort required to construct such a dwelling implies it held significant importance for its builders, who were likely mammoth hunters. This discovery not only sheds light on early human survival strategies during the harsh Ice Age, but also highlights their ingenuity, social organization, and adaptability.

The last Ice Age, which ended around 10,000 years ago, was one of five major glacial periods in Earth’s history, challenging even the most resilient life forms to adapt or perish.