Image Copyright: Marion M�nzberg

Today the Neanderthal is a popular Nature Reserve between Mettmann and Erkrath. Well developed hiking paths run through a scenic valley, where rare plants and animals have found their habitat.

In the past the Neanderthal was a tight canyon dug by the Düssel (a small Düsseldorf river, which flows into the Rhine). It became a wide valley through limestone winning, which was done till the 20th century.

Image Copyright: Hans Weingartz

In 1856 the valley gained fame through an important find in the 'Feldhofer Grotto', one of several caves in the then Neanderthal. At that time bones of a pre-historical human were found, which has been called Neanderthaler since then. In 1997 during an excavation campaign finger and foot bones were found as well as pieces of ribs from the individual, which was discovered in 1856. Seen as a sensation is the newest find in the year 2000: a piece of skull with eye socket, which fits exactly onto the skull of the Neanderthaler from the 'Feldhofer Grotto'. Today a plaque reminds the famous place of discovery in 1856, which fell victim to chalk mining. Only a few hundred metres further on is the modern Neanderthal Museum, which is dedicated to the famous find and the general evolution of humankind.

Image Copyright: Ilion at wikimedia commons

An extensive walk will take you around the Wild Reserve where you can watch bison, tarpons and re-bred aurochs. These living witnesses of the past are especially popular with children.

Image Copyright: Marion M�nzberg

Nature Reserve Neandertal

The Neander valley is part of the Nature Reserve Neandertal, which encompasses beyond the actual Neander valley the valley of the Düssel up to Haan-Gruiten. Numerous lovely hiking paths run through the whole recreation area.

Direction: The car park in the valley in close proximity to the museum is subject to charge and often overcrowded. If you are planning a walk through the Neander valley anyway or want to visit the game enclosure should start the excursion in Erkrath-Hochdahl. Here parking is free-of-charge and nearby are the suburban railway station resp. the bus stop at the Schlieperweg.