The 30th annual Calpe Conference took place from September 2 to 5, 2026, at the University of Gibraltar. This year’s event was dedicated to the study of Neanderthals, coinciding with the centenary of the discovery of the “Gibraltar 2” fossil, also known as the Devil’s Tower Skull. The conference drew representatives from 61 academic institutions across 15 countries. Professor Catherine Bachleda, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Gibraltar, opened the proceedings, followed by an inauguration address from Professor John Cortes, the Minister for Education, Public Health, Environment, Sustainability, Climate Change, Heritage, and Culture. Minister Cortes noted the dual significance of the event, which also marked the tenth anniversary of the inscription of the Gorham’s Cave Complex as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Dr. Alex Menez, who chaired the conference, delivered the opening lecture, which focused on the history of the Gibraltar 2 discovery and the contributions of archaeologist Dorothy Garrod. The academic program featured several presentations on human evolution and environmental history: Professor José María Fernández-Palacios (University of La Laguna): Discussed the role of islands as “refugia” for relict ecosystems, using the Macaronesian laurel forests as a primary example of biodiversity that is currently threatened by climate change. Professor Geraldine Finlayson (Gibraltar National Museum/University of Gibraltar/Liverpool John Moores University): Examined why specific locations, particularly west-facing coastlines like the Strait of Gibraltar and the Gulf of Cadiz, served as critical strongholds for species during glacial periods. Dr. John Murray (University of Galway): Provided a historical overview of William King, the scientist who first proposed the name Homo neanderthalensis in 1863, and discussed the enduring scientific debate regarding the taxonomic position of Neanderthals. Dr. Carlos Neto de Carvalho (Universidade de Lisboa/Universidade de Évora) and Dr. Fernando Muñez (Universidad de Sevilla): Presented research on hominin trace fossils, noting that coastal footprints found in regions such as southern Portugal, Cape Trafalgar, and Gibraltar provide direct evidence of Neanderthal locomotion and social behavior. Professor Geoff Bailey (University of York): Concluded the first day by questioning the application of the concept of “history” to Neanderthals. He highlighted the impact of sea-level changes during the Pleistocene-interglacial cycle, noting that the periodic exposure and flooding of continental shelves significantly influenced human demography and the archaeological record of coastal occupation.
Article source: Gibraltar Chronicle | Image credit: Gibraltar Chronicle