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Unveiling Rome’s Legendary Origins: Possible Shrine to Romulus Discovered

by Peter
written by Peter

Archaeological Discovery Unearths Possible Shrine to Romulus

Unveiling Rome’s Legendary Origins

Deep beneath the bustling streets of the Roman Forum, archaeologists have stumbled upon a subterranean chamber that may hold the key to unlocking a crucial chapter in the enigmatic tale of Romulus and Remus, the legendary founders of Rome.

A Shrine Dedicated to the Mythical King

The newly discovered underground sanctuary is believed to be dedicated to Romulus, the mythical figure whose heroic exploits are intertwined with the very fabric of Roman history. Dated to roughly the sixth century B.C., the chamber features an altar-like structure and a 55-inch sarcophagus, which tantalizingly appears to be empty.

Echoes of Ancient Beliefs

While the absence of human remains poses a challenge to definitive confirmation, scholars speculate that the altar may mark the spot where ancient Romans believed Romulus was laid to rest. The location of the discovery, close to the Lapis Niger, another revered shrine in the forum, further strengthens this hypothesis.

Unraveling the Tapestry of Time

The discovery of this potential Romulus shrine has sent ripples of excitement through the archaeological community. It opens up new avenues for exploring the origins of Rome and the enduring legacy of Romulus and Remus.

Myth and Reality Intertwined

The legend of Romulus and Remus, suckled by a benevolent she-wolf and destined to found the Eternal City, has captivated imaginations for centuries. While the historical accuracy of the tale remains a subject of debate, its profound impact on Roman culture cannot be overstated.

A Testament to Rome’s Enduring Legacy

The possible shrine to Romulus not only sheds light on the mythical origins of Rome but also serves as a testament to the enduring power of its cultural heritage. Even in the absence of definitive proof, the mere suggestion of a physical connection to the legendary founder is enough to ignite a sense of wonder and fascination.

Excavating the Past, Enriching the Present

The archaeological excavation at the Roman Forum is a testament to the tireless efforts of scholars dedicated to uncovering the secrets of the past. Their discoveries not only expand our knowledge but also enrich our understanding of the human experience, bridging the gap between myth and reality.

Unveiling the Enigma

As archaeologists continue to delve into the depths of the Roman Forum, the mystery surrounding Romulus and Remus may never be fully unraveled. Yet, each new piece of evidence brings us closer to understanding the complexities of Rome’s legendary past and the enduring legacy of its mythical founders.

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Archaeology

Unveiling the Human Story: Archaeology’s Journey into the Past

by Rosa
written by Rosa

Archaeology: Uncovering the Human Story

Origins of Humans

Archaeologists have shifted their focus from Europe to Africa to uncover the origins of humans. The discovery of the Taung Child in South Africa in 1924 revolutionized our understanding of human evolution, pushing the focus to Africa’s “Cradles of Humankind.”

Today, there are several fossil candidates for the earliest hominin, dating back 5-7 million years ago. The discovery of “Ardi” in 2009 provided new insights into the evolution of walking in hominins.

Human Evolution

The pace of archaeological discovery is faster than ever before. New research has led to significant revisions of our understanding of human evolution.

In Africa, discoveries of new hominin fossils have expanded our knowledge of our ancestors. Australopithecines like Australopithecus deryiremeda and Australopithecus sediba have reshaped the human family tree.

Perspectives on Homo sapiens have also changed. Fossils from Morocco suggest that our species emerged in Africa around 300,000 years ago, earlier than previously thought. Discoveries from Europe and Asia, including the enigmatic “hobbits” on Flores and the Denisovans in Siberia, indicate that our ancestors may have encountered other hominins as they spread out of Africa.

Ancient DNA

The rise of ancient DNA has revolutionized archaeological research. Since 2010, the sequencing of ancient human genomes has provided new insights into our species’ origins and early history.

Ancient DNA has revealed that modern humans and Neanderthals interbred during the last Ice Age, with many people today possessing some Neanderthal DNA. It has also identified the mysterious Denisovans, who interbred with us and Neanderthals.

Ancient DNA is now being extracted from a variety of sources, including cave dirt and chewing gum, providing new perspectives on individual and family relationships, as well as ancient diets and diseases.

Biomolecules

DNA is not the only molecule revolutionizing the study of the past. Paleoproteomics, the study of ancient proteins, has linked a 9-foot tall, 1,300-pound extinct ape to today’s orangutans.

Dental calculus has revealed information about ancient diets, including the consumption of milk, and has shed light on the human gut microbiome. Lipid residues trapped in pottery have provided insights into the origins of milk consumption and the use of ancient pots as baby bottles.

Big Data

Archaeologists are also using big data to reveal large-scale patterns. Aerial photography and satellite imagery enable researchers to discover new sites and monitor existing ones at risk. Drones provide detailed views of sites, helping to understand their construction and combat looting.

LIDAR technology creates 3D maps of landscapes, revealing ancient cities hidden in dense vegetation. Ground Penetrating Radar detects buried structures without excavation. Teams of archaeologists are combining large datasets to understand human impacts on the planet over thousands of years.

New Connections

Advances in technology are fostering new connections between researchers. Artificial intelligence is being used to identify ancient images in Peru. Crowdsourcing is helping to find new archaeological sites.

Partnerships between archaeologists and scientific specialists are leading to innovative research. The Open Science movement promotes data sharing and accessibility. Public archaeology programs, community digs, and digital museum collections are making archaeology more accessible.

Studying the Past to Change Our Present

Archaeological research provides insights into climate change and how ancient peoples coped with challenging environments. Studies have shown that traditional practices like transhumance can promote biodiversity and healthy landscapes.

Archaeologists are contributing their methods, data, and perspectives to create a vision for a less damaged, more just planet. By studying the past, we can learn from the successes and failures of our ancestors and work towards a better future.

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Archaeology

Unveiling the Past: Fascinating Archaeological Discoveries of 2019

by Peter
written by Peter

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.

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Archaeology

Unveiling the Secrets of the Great Pyramid: Hidden Cavities and the Quest for Secret Chambers

by Rosa
written by Rosa

Giza’s Great Pyramid: Hidden Cavities and the Search for Secret Chambers

The Great Pyramid of Giza, the final resting place of Pharaoh Khufu, has captivated historians and archaeologists for centuries. Despite extensive research, rumors of hidden tombs and secret passageways have persisted. Recent advancements in non-invasive scanning techniques have shed new light on the pyramid’s enigmatic interior, revealing previously undiscovered cavities that could potentially contain undiscovered structures.

Scanning the Pyramid’s Interior

In recent years, the ScanPyramids project, a collaboration between Cairo University’s Faculty of Engineering and the Paris-based Heritage, Innovation, and Preservation (HIP) Institute, has employed a range of scanning techniques to investigate the pyramid’s interior without disturbing its delicate structure. These techniques include:

  • Infrared thermography: Detects temperature differences within the pyramid, indicating the presence of open spaces.
  • Muon radiography imaging: Measures cosmic radiation to penetrate large objects and detect density variations, revealing hidden voids.
  • 3-D reconstruction: Combines data from multiple scans to create a detailed three-dimensional model of the pyramid’s interior.

The Discovery of Hidden Cavities

Using these advanced scanning techniques, researchers have identified two previously unknown cavities beneath the pyramid. One cavity is located behind the north face and is believed to have the form of at least one corridor leading inside the pyramid. The other cavity is larger and is located at a different, undisclosed location.

The precise shape, size, and exact position of these cavities are still under investigation. Researchers are installing additional muon detectors around the pyramid to obtain a clearer picture of its interior.

The Challenge of Interpretation

While the discovery of these hidden cavities is exciting, experts caution against jumping to conclusions about their significance. Former Egyptian Minister of Antiquities Zahi Hawass, who is reviewing the team’s data, notes that anomalies in the pyramid’s structure could be the result of its construction methods rather than hidden chambers.

“The core of the pyramid was built using long stones and small stones,” Hawass explains. “If you know that, you’ll find anomalies everywhere.”

Ongoing Research

The ScanPyramids project has been extended to allow researchers to gather more evidence to support their theory of hidden chambers. They are continuing to analyze data from existing scans and are planning to conduct additional scans using more advanced techniques.

As the research progresses, we may gain new insights into the secrets of the Great Pyramid of Giza, potentially revealing undiscovered tombs, passageways, or other structures that have remained hidden for millennia.

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Archaeology and History

Unveiling Karakorum: The Lost Capital of the Mongol Empire through Advanced Geophysics

by Rosa
written by Rosa

Karakorum: Capital of the Mongol Empire

Discovery and Mapping

The ruins of Karakorum, the 13th-century capital of the Mongol Empire, have long fascinated archaeologists. However, physical evidence of the city has been largely ignored in favor of written accounts by European travelers.

Now, for the first time, researchers have used advanced geophysics methods to create a detailed map of Karakorum. The findings, published in the journal Antiquity, greatly expand our knowledge of this abandoned Eurasian city.

Foundation and Significance

Genghis Khan founded Karakorum around 1220 C.E. as a camp of yurts strategically located in the Orkhon River valley. Recognizing its potential, his son and successor, Ögödei, chose Karakorum as the capital of the Mongol Empire.

Over time, Karakorum became a thriving metropolis, hosting diplomats, traders, and travelers from across the Silk Road. Chinese artisans and Muslim merchants contributed to its grandeur, constructing a lavish palace and other impressive structures.

Advanced Geophysics Mapping

Lead author Jan Bemmann and his team used a SQUID (superconducting quantum interference device) to survey an area of 465 hectares, creating a map of unexcavated remains below the surface. Combined with aerial photographs, historical records, and previous surveys, this data provided a detailed view of Karakorum’s density and structure.

City Layout and Features

The new map allows researchers to identify where large brick buildings once stood and where roads once cut through the terrain. Elite neighborhoods were located within the city walls, while supply settlements and production sites extended into the surrounding Orkhon River valley.

“We are not only talking about an imperial city, but about an imperial valley,” Bemmann said.

William of Rubruck’s Account

William of Rubruck, a Flemish Franciscan monk, visited Karakorum in 1254 and described its grandeur in his writings. He was particularly impressed by a great silver fountain in the shape of a tree that dispensed drinks such as wine and mare’s milk.

Mongol Influence and Legacy

The Mongols’ military might and talent for collecting skilled people from conquered territories contributed to Karakorum’s prosperity. However, they relied on their captives to advise them on city construction, as they were primarily nomadic.

Interestingly, a full 40 percent of the land within Karakorum’s city walls was left empty, perhaps reflecting the Mongols’ nomadic heritage. By the 15th century, Karakorum had been all but abandoned.

Modern Exploration and Reconstruction

The city’s precise location was rediscovered in 1889, but archaeological work has been limited. The new digital reconstruction of Karakorum, based on the geophysics map, provides a valuable tool for understanding the city’s layout and history.

“It was astonishing to witness the growing extent of the map day by day,” Bemmann said. “With every piece of the city added, our understanding grew.”

The detailed map of Karakorum offers insights into the Mongol Empire’s influence, the role of skilled captives in city construction, and the enduring legacy of this once-great capital.

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Archaeology

The Humayma Rook: The Oldest Known Chess Piece and Its Impact on the Spread of the Game in the Islamic World

by Rosa
written by Rosa

Oldest Chess Piece Unearthed in Jordan Sheds Light on Game’s Origins

Discovery of the Humayma Rook

In 1991, archaeologists excavating the ancient Islamic trading post of Humayma in Jordan stumbled upon a small sandstone figurine that has since been identified as the oldest known chess piece. The two-pronged rook, which measures less than an inch high, was initially thought to be an altar, but further examination revealed its true nature.

Dating the Rook

Researchers have dated the Humayma rook to between 680 and 749 A.D., based on the historical context of the site and the style of the carving. This places the piece within the Umayyad period, when the powerful Abbasid family controlled the region.

Chess in the Islamic World

The discovery of the Humayma rook sheds light on the rapid spread of chess across the Islamic world. Chess likely originated in India during the sixth century and quickly gained popularity in Persia. By the seventh century, the game had reached the Middle East and was being played by both Muslims and Christians.

The Abbasids and Chess

Humayma was the hometown of the Abbasid clan, which overthrew the Umayyads in 750 A.D. and ruled much of the Islamic world until 1258 A.D. The Abbasids were known for their patronage of the arts and sciences, and it is likely that they played a role in the spread of chess.

Chess as a Pastime

Chess quickly became a popular pastime in the early Islamic world. It was enjoyed by people of all social classes, from the elite to the common folk. The game was seen as a way to bridge differences and promote intellectual stimulation.

Evolution of the Rook

The two-pronged Humayma rook is a variation on the chess piece’s original form, which was a chariot pulled by two horses. When chess arrived in the Islamic world, the rook’s appearance shifted due to the prohibition on figurative images. However, the piece retained its original name, “rukh” in Persian, meaning “chariot.” When Europeans adopted the game centuries later, they interpreted the prongs as masonry work on forts or towers, and so the rook became the castle seen today.

Other Early Chess Pieces

While the Humayma rook is the oldest known chess piece that has been definitively identified, there are other specimens that may have a claim to the title. A set of figurines found in Uzbekistan in 1977 dates to around 700 A.D., and an ivory piece unearthed in a Byzantine palace in Albania in 2002 resembles a modern chess piece with a cross on top. However, critics argue that chess was likely not even invented at this point in history.

Ongoing Search for Older Pieces

Researchers believe that there are probably older chess pieces still waiting to be found. The game was invented at least a century before the Humayma rook was carved, and it is likely that earlier specimens exist. Future archaeological discoveries may shed even more light on the origins and evolution of this ancient and beloved game.

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History of Science

HMS Beagle’s Lost Anchors: A Historical Discovery in the Victoria River

by Rosa
written by Rosa

The HMS Beagle’s Lost Anchors: A Historical Adventure

Discovery of a Lost Anchor

In the murky depths of the Victoria River in Australia, archaeologists have stumbled upon a remarkable discovery that could rewrite maritime history. They believe they have found an anchor from the HMS Beagle, the famous ship that carried Charles Darwin to the Galapagos Islands.

The Beagle’s Voyage and Legacy

The HMS Beagle was a converted gun sloop launched in 1820. It embarked on several voyages of exploration, including the one that took Darwin to the Galapagos Islands in 1835. Darwin’s observations during this voyage formed the basis of his groundbreaking theory of evolution by natural selection.

After Darwin’s departure, the Beagle continued its adventures, surveying important stretches of the Australian coastline. It was during this third voyage of discovery that the Beagle encountered difficulties in the Victoria River.

The Victoria River Incident

In 1841, the Beagle attempted to survey the Victoria River. However, the crew faced a barrage of obstacles, including swarms of mosquitoes, storms, crocodiles, and dysentery. Faced with these perils, they decided to abandon their mission and head back to the coast.

As the Beagle turned around, the crew realized that their anchors were stuck in the mud. To free the ship, they were forced to cut the anchors loose, leaving them behind in the river.

Archaeological Search

For over a century, the Beagle’s lost anchors remained undiscovered. However, in 2022, archaeologists using sonar technology located an object believed to be one of the missing anchors.

Confirmation and Recovery

To confirm their discovery, archaeologists are seeking images of the Beagle’s anchors from museums and private collections. They hope to find a drawing or photograph that matches the dimensions and characteristics of the object they have found.

Once confirmed, the anchor will be recovered from the riverbed. The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory plans to display it as a prized artifact, offering visitors a glimpse into the Beagle’s rich history.

The Beagle’s Fate

After its final voyage to Australia, the Beagle’s significance waned. It was tasked with patrolling the River Roach Tidal System for smugglers but was essentially left moored to a pier for years. The ship lost its name and became known only as W.V. No.7.

In 1850, oyster fishermen complained that the Beagle was obstructing their path, and it was moved ashore. Two decades later, it was sold to a scrapper who dismantled it and sold off its parts. The hull was sunk in a marsh.

Rediscovery and Legacy

In 2000, historians and researchers tracked down the remains of the Beagle using old maps and ground-penetrating radar. They discovered the ship’s hull and another anchor. Other anchors found in nearby villages are believed to have been scavenged from the Beagle.

The discovery of the HMS Beagle’s lost anchor is a testament to the enduring legacy of this historic vessel. It provides a tangible connection to Darwin’s groundbreaking scientific discoveries and offers a glimpse into the challenges and adventures of maritime exploration in the 19th century.

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Anthropology

The Rock of Gibraltar: A Haven for Neanderthals, Their Last Refuge

by Rosa
written by Rosa

Neanderthals’ Last Refuge: The Rock of Gibraltar

Discovery of the Gibraltar Neanderthals

Gibraltar, a small peninsula at the southern tip of Spain, played a pivotal role in the history of Neanderthals, an extinct species of humans. In 1848, Captain Edmund Flint, an officer in the British Royal Navy, stumbled upon the first Neanderthal fossil in Gibraltar, the skull of an adult female known as Gibraltar 1. At the time, Neanderthals were unknown to science, and the skull was initially dismissed as a curiosity.

Neanderthal Occupation Sites

The discovery of Gibraltar 1 sparked further exploration, leading to the identification of eight Neanderthal sites across Gibraltar. These sites, including Forbes’ Quarry and Devil’s Tower rock shelter, revealed evidence of Neanderthal occupation over thousands of years. Archaeologists uncovered stone tools, animal remains, and other artifacts that provided insights into the lives of these ancient humans.

Unique Environmental Conditions

Gibraltar’s unique environmental conditions played a crucial role in the survival of Neanderthals. The region’s warm Mediterranean climate and diverse habitats, including woodlands, savannahs, salt marshes, and scrublands, provided a wealth of food sources. Neanderthals hunted deer, rabbits, and birds, and supplemented their diet with seafood such as monk seals, fish, mussels, and even dolphins.

Extinction of the Neanderthals

Despite the favorable conditions in Gibraltar, the Neanderthals eventually died out around 24,000 to 28,000 years ago. The reasons for their extinction are still debated, but possible factors include climate change, competition with modern humans, or a combination of both. Further research is needed to fully understand the circumstances surrounding the disappearance of the Neanderthals.

Neanderthal Research in Gibraltar

Today, Gibraltar continues to be a valuable site for Neanderthal research. Ongoing excavations at Gorham’s Cave and Vanguard Cave are shedding light on the lives and times of the most recent Neanderthal populations. Scientists are using radiocarbon dating and other techniques to refine our understanding of Neanderthal chronology and behavior.

Significance of Gibraltar

Gibraltar’s Neanderthal heritage has earned it a place as a potential UNESCO World Heritage site. The peninsula’s rich fossil record, diverse occupation sites, and unique environmental conditions make it an invaluable resource for studying the evolution and extinction of this enigmatic species. As research continues, Gibraltar promises to provide further insights into the complex history of human origins.

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Paleontology

Unearthing the Past: Ancient Elephant Bones Found in Los Angeles Subway Construction

by Rosa
written by Rosa

Ancient Elephant Bones Unearthed in Los Angeles Subway Excavation

Discovery and Significance

During construction of the Los Angeles Subway’s Wilshire/La Brea Station, workers stumbled upon fragments of an ancient elephant, a discovery that sheds light on the area’s prehistoric past. The presence of these fossils is unsurprising, given the nearby La Brea Tar Pits, known for preserving numerous ancient creatures.

Fossil Identification and Analysis

The initial discovery consisted of a set of teeth belonging to an adult mastodon. Subsequent excavation revealed a partial skull with tusks nearby. Preliminary analysis suggests the elephant lived approximately 10,000 years ago during the last Ice Age. However, it remains uncertain whether the skull and tusks belong to a mastodon or a young mammoth. Further analysis of the teeth and skull features will determine the species.

Preservation and Removal

Upon discovery, construction work in the area was immediately halted to allow for the preservation and removal of the fossils. The tusk section and skull were encased in plaster to maintain their integrity during transport to a laboratory for further study.

Mammoths vs. Mastodons

Mammoths and mastodons, distant cousins of modern elephants, exhibit distinct characteristics. Mammoths were larger with tall, ridged teeth adapted for grazing on tough plains grasses. Mastodons, on the other hand, preferred forested habitats and consumed fruit and leaves. Both species became extinct around 10,000 years ago.

Historical Context

This recent discovery marks the first fossil find during the Metro’s expansion project. However, it is not an isolated incident. During the construction of the Red Line in the 1980s, workers unearthed thousands of fossil specimens. Funding for fossil retrieval has been incorporated into the current budget, acknowledging the historical significance of these finds.

Future Discoveries

Experts anticipate that additional fossil discoveries will be made as the Metro expansion continues. The area’s rich paleontological history suggests that the excavation may yield further evidence of prehistoric life in Los Angeles.

Public Transit and Prehistoric Legacy

The discovery of ancient elephant bones underscores the unique intersection of modern infrastructure and prehistoric history in Los Angeles. As the city’s subway system expands, it not only provides modern transportation but also unveils a glimpse into the region’s ancient past.

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Prehistoric Art

5,000-Year-Old Burton Agnes Drum: A Remarkable Prehistoric Discovery

by Jasmine
written by Jasmine

5,000-Year-Old Chalk Sculpture: The Burton Agnes Drum

Discovery and Significance

In 2015, archaeologists made a remarkable discovery at a burial site in the English village of Burton Agnes: a 5,000-year-old chalk sculpture known as the Burton Agnes drum. This intricately decorated artifact is considered “the most important piece of prehistoric art” unearthed in Great Britain in the past century, according to Neil Wilkin, a curator at the British Museum.

Description and Context

The Burton Agnes drum is a cylindrical stone sculpture adorned with spirals, triangles, and an hourglass-shaped “butterfly” motif. It was buried alongside three children, aged 3, 5, and 12, in a square pit at the center of a round barrow. The drum is believed to be a funerary offering or protective talisman.

Unique Features

The Burton Agnes drum is one of only four of its kind known to survive today. It is particularly intriguing because it exhibits a “sort of artistic language” that was prevalent throughout the British Isles during the Neolithic period, around 5,000 years ago.

Connections to Stonehenge

Carbon dating of bones found in the Burton Agnes grave indicates that the drum dates to between 3005 and 2890 B.C.E., during the first phase of Stonehenge’s construction. This suggests a connection between the communities that created the drum and those that built Stonehenge.

Folkton Drums and Artistic Continuity

The Burton Agnes drum closely resembles the three Folkton drums, which were found in a Neolithic child’s grave some 15 miles away in 1889. This similarity suggests a continuity of artistic traditions within the region.

Exceptional Burial Practices

At the time of the drum’s creation, burials were rare and usually reserved for children. The fact that the Burton Agnes drum was buried with three children makes it even more unique.

Analysis and Symbolism

Researchers are analyzing the drum’s carvings to decipher the symbolism and beliefs of the era in which Stonehenge was constructed. The intricate designs may provide insights into the spirituality and worldview of Neolithic communities.

Exhibition at the British Museum

The Burton Agnes drum is currently on display at the British Museum in London as part of the exhibition “The World of Stonehenge.” This exhibition showcases 430 objects related to Stonehenge, including the Nebra Sky Disc and Seahenge.

Additional Discoveries at the Burial Site

In addition to the drum, archaeologists found a clay ball believed to be a child’s toy and a long bone pin that may have once kept a burial shroud in place. These discoveries provide further evidence of the significance of the Burton Agnes burial site.

Ongoing Research and Significance

The discovery of the Burton Agnes drum continues to captivate researchers and shed light on the artistic, cultural, and spiritual practices of Neolithic communities in Britain. Ongoing analysis of the drum and its context promises to deepen our understanding of this fascinating period in history.

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