ABSTRACT
This chapter profiles the evidence for Neanderthal religion. It begins with a very brief discussion of evidence for ritual behavior by Homo Erectus (e.g., Atapuerca Cave). A second section reviews perspectives on Neanderthals from the nineteenth century to today. The next section reviews evidence at major sites (e.g., Regourdou, La Chapelle, La Ferassie, Shanidar Cave, Moula-Guercy, and others). The chapter concludes with a discussion of Neanderthal religion and the theme of “religion reflects culture,” with particular reference to children/ancestors, death and dying, and the recognition of the power of animals.
