| "Some of the exhibits may not be for the faint-hearted: they're a graphic depiction of Stone Age life - including cannibalism." | | Bob Smart |
Set amid the dramatic landscape of Cheddar Gorge, the Cheddar Man and the Cannibals museum recreates life and death in the Stone Age based on finds made in the famous caves. The most controversial exhibit is a collection of 12,500-year-old butchered human bones, which prove that our ancestors were cannibals. The museum's other displays include the 9,000-year-old Cheddar Man - Britain's oldest complete skeleton - and a giant rotating skull within a cave of mirrors. The new attraction features lessons in Stone Age survival skills. There is also a cave art wall where visitors can try their hand as prehistoric painters and a stunning display which transforms a 'living' Cheddar Man into his skeletal remains. Other displays include a three-metre tall cave bear skeleton, a depiction of the Stone Age 'Arms Race' and tableaux featuring both the ritual 'burial' of Cheddar Man and his re-discovery in Gough's Cave 9,000 years later. Adrian Targett, the local history teacher who was found to be a descendant of Cheddar Man following DNA testing, is joining Lord Bath at the official opening of the exhibition on Wednesday 23 March 2005. Curator Bob Smart said: "This isn't a 'traditional' museum experience. "Some of the exhibits may not be for the faint-hearted: they're a graphic depiction of Stone Age life - including cannibalism. "I believe the giant skull is one of the more startling objects ever to go on display to the public. "I'm sure it will provide a major talking point for visitors - and that's exactly what it's meant to do. "We want people to really get a sensation of what the world was like back then, wherever possible they can touch and feel many of the objects. "We also use sound and lighting effects to bring the experience to life. "Our aim is to show people that Cheddar Man is really modern man in a Stone Age environment. "We look at advances in technology, art, society and the growth of religion as well as the controversial topic of cannibalism," he added. | 
