Archaeological Discoveries: Unveiling the Past in 2019
Lost Japanese Settlement Unearthed in Canadian Wilderness
Hidden within the forests of British Columbia, archaeologists uncovered a secluded Japanese settlement dating back to the early 20th century. This thriving community, established by Japanese Canadians fleeing discrimination, boasted homes, gardens, and even a shrine.
Grisly Skull Helmets of Ancient Ecuadorian Infants
In a ritual complex on Ecuador’s coast, researchers unearthed the remains of two infants adorned with gruesome “helmets” made from the skulls of older children. These bone helmets may have served as protection or links to ancestors in the afterlife.
A Sorceress’ Kit in the Ashes of Pompeii
Amidst the ruins of the ancient Roman city of Pompeii, a treasure trove of artifacts was discovered, including a sorceress’ kit. This collection of trinkets, such as scarab beetles, tiny dolls, and phallic amulets, may have been used for fortune telling or rituals associated with fertility and seduction.
Protective Charms: A Witch Bottle from an English Inn
In the chimney of a former inn in England, contractors discovered a “witch bottle” filled with human teeth, pins, and a mysterious liquid. Such bottles were commonly used between the 16th and 18th centuries to ward off witchcraft, believed to lure witches into the bottle and trap them on its sharp points.
Lost Beatles Footage Resurfaces
In a remarkable discovery, lost footage of the Beatles’ 1966 performance on the BBC show “Top of the Pops” was unearthed in an attic. This silent recording, later remastered and synced with audio, provides a glimpse of the legendary band’s final live performance.
Ancient Whale Vertebra Holds Mysteries
On the Orkney Islands, archaeologists excavated a hollowed-out whale vertebra containing a human jawbone and the remains of newborn lambs. This unusual vessel may have been part of a ritual to close off an ancient broch, or roundhouse. DNA analysis revealed the vertebra belonged to a fin whale, raising questions about whether the ancient Scots hunted these massive creatures.
Perfectly Preserved Wolf Head from the Siberian Permafrost
The Siberian permafrost yielded an intact wolf head from the Pleistocene era, preserved for over 32,000 years. This discovery provides valuable insights into the extinct species and the remarkable preservation power of permafrost.
Untouched Maya Artifacts in Chichén Itzá’s Hidden Cave
After decades of local reports, archaeologists finally ventured into a cave system at Chichén Itzá. Inside, they uncovered a treasure trove of Maya artifacts, including incense burners, vases, and offerings left to appease the rain god, Tlaloc.
A Renaissance Masterpiece Rediscovered in an Unassuming Home
An elderly French woman’s discarded painting, nearly destined for the trash, turned out to be a lost masterpiece by 13th-century artist Cimabue. This small panel painting, depicting “Christ Mocked,” sold for a staggering $26.8 million at auction.
Celtic Woman Laid to Rest in a Hollowed-Out Tree Trunk
In Zurich, archaeologists discovered the remains of an Iron Age Celtic woman buried in a unique coffin fashioned from a hollowed-out tree trunk. Adorned with sheep’s wool garments and jewelry, this wealthy woman likely enjoyed an elite status within her society.
Medieval Skeletons Unearthed at the Tower of London
Amidst the iconic structures of the Tower of London, archaeologists uncovered the skeletons of a medieval woman and child. These remains provide a glimpse into the lives of ordinary individuals who played a role in the daily operations of this historic fortress.
Cracking the Case of 1,700-Year-Old Roman Eggs
In central England, archaeologists found two cracked chicken eggs from Roman times, emitting a pungent sulfurous aroma. A third egg remained intact, its contents preserved within its fragile shell. These eggs, discovered in a pit used for brewing beer and later as a wishing well, may have been food offerings made to Roman gods.
