Malachite fragments, a mineral rich in copper, recovered during the excavation works at Cova 338. Credit: Maria D. Guillén / IPHES-CERCA High in the eastern Pyrenees, archaeologists have uncovered evidence that could transform our understanding of how prehistoric people used mountain landscapes. A cave perched more than 7,300 feet (2,235 meters) above sea level contains dozens of ancient hearths filled with fragments of green mineral that may point to early copper mining activities. The