Home Tags Posts tagged with "Archaeology"
Tag:

Archaeology

Prehistoric Art

Exploring the Chauvet Cave: A Journey into the Depths of Prehistoric Art

by Kim
written by Kim

The Chauvet Cave: A Journey into the Depths of Prehistoric Art

Entry into the Cave

Accessing the Chauvet Cave, home to the world’s most breathtaking cave paintings, is a rare privilege granted to only a handful of people each year. The journey begins with a steep climb through a forest to the foot of a limestone cliff. From there, a wooden walkway leads to a steel door, sealed by four secure locks, including a biometric lock accessible by only four conservators.

Protecting the Cave

Ever since its discovery in 1994, the Chauvet Cave has been under strict protection to preserve its fragile ecosystem. Visitors are required to wear protective gear, including rubber shoes, a blue jumpsuit, a helmet with a miner’s lamp, and a rope harness with two caribiners. These precautions are necessary to avoid repeating the damage caused to the famous Lascaux caves, where bacteria and decay have ruined the cave art.

Exploring the Vastness and Variety

The Chauvet Cave is vast and varied, covering an area of 8,500 square meters. Its cathedral-like galleries soar at least six stories high, illuminated by a seepage of natural light and the lamps on visitors’ helmets. The cave is adorned with a stunning array of calcite deposits, stalagmites, stalactites, and other limestone formations. The floors alternate between calcified stone and soft sand, embedded with the paw prints of prehistoric animals.

The Presence of Palaeolithic Man

The presence of Palaeolithic man is revealed slowly as visitors explore the cave. In a corner of the first gallery, there is a tableau of red dots created by an artist dabbing their palms in ocher and pressing them against the limestone. Archaeologists believe that these early cave artists were prehistoric shamans, who attempted to communicate with the animal spirits by drawing them out of the rock with their touch.

The Cave Drawings

The cave drawings in Chauvet are a testament to the artistic skills and imagination of Palaeolithic man. They range from simple palm prints and crude drawings of woolly mammoths to richly shaded, torqued, three-dimensional creatures. The End Chamber is particularly impressive, with its individualized profile of lions stalking their prey and a menagerie of other animals drawn with immeasurable skill and confidence.

A Vivid Memory

Exploring the Chauvet Cave is a truly unforgettable experience. Visitors are left with a vivid memory of the stunning cave paintings that have survived for over 35,000 years. The cave is a reminder of the creativity and artistry of our distant ancestors and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Archaeology

Exceptional Roman Burials in Britain Reveal Cultural Transition and High Status

by Rosa
written by Rosa

High-Status Roman Burials Unearth Insights into Roman Britain

Discovery of Exceptional Graves

Archaeologists excavating a site in southwest England have uncovered an extraordinary set of 50 Roman-era burials, providing a glimpse into the progressive adoption of Roman burial practices by Iron Age Britons. The burials date to the Roman occupation of Britain, which spanned from 43 to 410 A.D.

Notable Construction and Offerings

The graves exhibit a notable level of construction, with most being lined with stone walls and closed with flat rock slabs. One grave stands out with its unique tent-like structure created by leaning rock slabs against each other, a style resembling Roman graves found in Spain and Italy.

Offerings found within the graves further indicate the influence of Roman customs. These offerings include coins, a ceramic pot, and a carved bone likely used as a knife handle. Additionally, a chicken wing was discovered inside a pot buried with an older woman, who was originally laid to rest with her head resting on a pillow.

Evidence of High Status and Nearby Roman Villa

The elaborate construction and offerings suggest that the individuals buried at the site were of high status. Archaeologist Steve Membery notes that the graves have been “built” rather than simply cut into the ground, indicating a significant level of care.

Archaeologists believe the burials are linked to a nearby Roman villa, although the villa itself has yet to be located. However, they have unearthed signs of outhouses and a barn that may be associated with it.

Cultural Transition from Iron Age to Roman Customs

The burials provide evidence of the gradual cultural transition from Iron Age traditions to the adoption of more Roman customs. Earlier tombs feature bodies laid flat in a small space, while later graves include more elaborate offerings and construction techniques.

This transition is further supported by the discovery of Iron Age roundhouses, a Bronze Age barrow, and a Roman building on the site. Archaeologists have been able to examine generations of a community whose existence spanned over 500 years, capturing the cultural evolution that occurred during the Roman occupation.

Roman Invasion and Occupation

The Roman Period in Britain began after Julius Caesar’s first attempt to conquer the British Isles. The invasion, driven by a desire for political power, saw the Roman army landing in southeast England and pushing north and westward.

In the southwest, the Romans faced fierce resistance from tribes based out of Iron Age hill forts. However, they eventually emerged victorious, although intermittent rebellion continued in northern regions like Scotland.

Southern Britain was the only area where the landscape began to take on a distinctly Mediterranean character, with towns being built by local gentry who transformed themselves into Romanised gentlemen within a generation or two.

Archaeological Significance

The discovery of these high-status Roman burials provides valuable insights into the lives and customs of Iron Age Britons during the Roman occupation. The burials showcase the progressive adoption of Roman practices, the construction of elaborate graves, and the presence of a nearby Roman villa.

The site also offers a glimpse into the cultural transition that occurred during this period, as well as the broader context of the Roman invasion and occupation of Britain.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
History

Unveiling the Hidden Kitchen of Maui’s Oldest House: Archaeological Discoveries at the Baldwin Home Museum

by Kim
written by Kim

Archaeologists Uncover Secrets of Maui’s Oldest House

Baldwin Home Museum’s Hidden Kitchen

Archaeologists are meticulously searching for traces of an adobe kitchen behind the Baldwin Home Museum, the oldest house still standing on Maui. This dig, set to conclude on March 27, has already yielded intriguing evidence of traditional foods, cookware, and a bone button.

The Baldwin Home, now a museum, was originally built for Reverend Ephraim Spaulding. When Spaulding fell ill and returned to Massachusetts, Reverend Dwight Baldwin and his wife, Charlotte, moved into the house. Over the years, the couple raised eight children, though two tragically succumbed to dysentery. Charlotte dedicated herself to educating local children, while the family welcomed visitors from all walks of life, including sea captains, missionaries, and Hawaiian royalty.

Theo Morrison, executive director of the Lahaina Restoration Foundation, noticed the conspicuous absence of a kitchen in the historic home several years ago. “This place was bustling with activity day and night,” Morrison remarked.

Documents related to the estate mention an adobe cookhouse behind the main house, as well as hundreds of adobe buildings in Lahaina, which served as Maui’s capital for 25 years before Honolulu.

The Baldwin Home was initially a one-story, four-room structure built with lava rocks and coral cemented by sand and lime. Its architectural style evokes old British homes by the sea. Visitors can glimpse the home’s two-foot-thick walls through a small exposed section. The Baldwins expanded the property over 31 years, adding bedrooms and a second story.

Archaeological Discoveries

Despite setbacks due to weather and falling mangoes, the archaeological team has persevered, unearthing artifacts from various periods. These include a blue paint fragment from the 20th century renovation, as well as a button, clam shells, opihi, animal bones, and a potential utensil.

The team’s ongoing search aims to locate an entrance to the cookhouse and stairs leading to the Baldwin home.

Baldwin’s Role in the Smallpox Epidemic

The Baldwin Home’s history is intertwined with the island’s struggle against disease outbreaks. In the 19th century, increased traffic from whalers, missionaries, and businessmen exposed local residents to various illnesses.

Reverend Baldwin, who held a Masters’ degree from Harvard College’s medical school, played a crucial role in combating the smallpox epidemic that ravaged the Hawaiian archipelago in 1853. Colleagues on the mainland sent him supplies for inoculation, and Baldwin tirelessly rode around the island on horseback, administering vaccinations to locals.

Baldwin also advocated for refusing incoming boats and quarantining individuals exhibiting smallpox symptoms. As a result, Maui experienced significantly fewer fatalities from smallpox than neighboring Oahu.

A Window into the Past

Morrison envisions rebuilding the cookhouse using adobe bricks made by the community. “It would provide another glimpse into the Baldwin family’s daily life—their food, cooking methods, and storage practices,” she explained.

The Baldwin Home Museum is currently closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but its legacy as a place of refuge and healing continues to resonate. The archaeological dig offers a tantalizing glimpse into the vibrant past of Maui’s oldest house and the people who shaped its history.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Archaeology

Unveiling the Hidden History: The Ancient Civilizations of the Central Andes

by Peter
written by Peter

Rediscovering the Ancient Civilizations of the Central Andes

The Inca’s Masterpiece: The Road to the Clouds

The Inca Empire, renowned for its architectural marvels, left behind an enduring legacy in the form of the Inca Road. Spanning over 3,700 miles, this intricate network of paved highways connected distant regions of the empire, facilitating trade, communication, and military campaigns. Its astonishing engineering feats included suspension bridges and roads carved into sheer mountain faces.

Cradle of Civilizations: The Central Andes

Recent archaeological discoveries have revealed that the central Andes region, encompassing southern Ecuador, northwestern Bolivia, and most of Peru, was a cradle of civilization as ancient as Mesopotamia and Egypt. Here, pyramids and temples rivaled those of the Old World, while vast irrigation networks and advanced artworks showcased the ingenuity of the Andean peoples.

The Enigma of the Early Coastal Civilizations

Along the arid Pacific coast of Peru, archaeologists have uncovered a series of enigmatic pre-Inca cities dating back to 3500 B.C. These settlements, such as Caral, exhibited a unique blend of architectural prowess and social organization. Despite their vulnerability to natural disasters, these early coastal civilizations developed a thriving economy based on fishing and agriculture.

Incan Innovations: Beyond Warfare

While the Inca Empire is often associated with conquest and warfare, its contributions extended far beyond military might. The Incas excelled in engineering, agriculture, and textiles. Their construction of Machu Picchu, a breathtaking palace complex perched high in the Andes, exemplifies their architectural brilliance. They also introduced innovative farming techniques, including the cultivation of potatoes and other Andean tubers, which became dietary staples.

Reassessing Hiram Bingham’s Legacy

The discovery of Machu Picchu in 1911 by Hiram Bingham brought the Inca Empire to international attention. However, recent scholarship has shed light on the role played by local indigenous farmers, such as Melchor Arteaga, who had been safeguarding the ruins long before Bingham’s arrival. This recognition highlights the importance of acknowledging the contributions of indigenous communities in the preservation of cultural heritage.

Unveiling the Hidden History

Archaeological expeditions and ongoing research continue to uncover the rich and diverse history of the central Andes. From the monumental ruins of Tiwanaku to the enigmatic subterranean city of Chavín de Huántar, each discovery adds a new piece to the puzzle of this ancient civilization. By exploring these enigmatic sites, we gain a deeper understanding of the human experience and the enduring legacy of past societies.

A Legacy for the Future

The legacy of the ancient civilizations of the central Andes continues to inspire and captivate. Their architectural wonders, agricultural innovations, and cultural achievements serve as a reminder of the ingenuity and resilience of human civilization. By preserving and studying this rich heritage, we honor the past and ensure its relevance for generations to come.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Uncategorized

The Fate of the Scottish Soldiers After the Battle of Dunbar: A Historical and Ethical Dilemma

by Peter
written by Peter

The Fate of the Scottish Soldiers After the Battle of Dunbar

Discovery of the Remains

During a restoration project at a palace and cathedral in Durham, England, in 2013, the remains of Scottish soldiers who had been captured by Oliver Cromwell’s forces following the Battle of Dunbar were discovered. The discovery of the remains, known as the “Dunbar Martyrs,” provided concrete evidence that approximately half of the 3,000 captive soldiers who died while imprisoned in the castle and abandoned cathedral were buried in a mass grave there.

Historical Context

The Battle of Dunbar was a pivotal battle in the English Civil War, fought in 1650. The Scottish army, led by General David Leslie, was defeated by Cromwell’s English Parliamentarian army. The defeat marked a major setback for the Scottish cause of independence.

Ethical and Historical Dilemma

The discovery of the soldiers’ remains has raised ethical and historical questions about their reburial. Some have argued that the remains should be returned to Scotland for reburial, while others believe they should remain in Durham, where they were found.

Arguments for Reburial in Scotland

Those who advocate for the reburial of the remains in Scotland argue that it is disrespectful to keep the soldiers on English ground, as it undermines their Scottish identity and the sacrifices they made for their country. They also argue that the remains should be buried in a place where they can be properly honored and remembered.

Arguments for Reburial in Durham

Those who support the reburial of the remains in Durham argue that the soldiers died and were buried there, and that it is important to respect the historical significance of the site. They also argue that the remains have been well-preserved and studied in Durham, and that moving them would be disrespectful to the research that has been conducted.

University’s Decision

After considering all options, Durham University decided to rebury the remains in a Durham cemetery. The university stated that it was acutely aware of the strength of interest in the fate of the soldiers, but that it also recognized its ethical, moral, and legal obligations.

Controversy and Opposition

The university’s decision has been met with controversy and opposition from some who believe that the remains should be returned to Scotland. They argue that the university is not taking the opportunity to lay to rest a dark chapter of history and that it is leaving an open wound for future generations.

Historical Significance

The Battle of Dunbar and the fate of the Scottish soldiers are significant historical events that continue to resonate today. The discovery of the remains has shed new light on this period of history and has raised important questions about the treatment of historical remains and the ethical obligations of institutions that possess them.

Ongoing Research

Following the reburial of the soldiers’ remains, further research will be conducted to learn more about their lives and deaths. This research will help to provide a deeper understanding of the Battle of Dunbar and its impact on Scottish history.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Uncategorized

Journey Through Mexico’s Ancient Civilizations: A Guide to Archaeological Treasures and Cultural Heritage

by Peter
written by Peter

Mexico: A Journey Through Ancient Civilizations

Historical and Cultural Significance

Mexico is a land steeped in history and cultural heritage, having been home to some of the world’s most advanced ancient civilizations. From the Olmecs to the Aztecs, these civilizations left an enduring mark on the country, shaping its traditions, beliefs, and architecture. Visiting Mexico’s ancient cities and temples offers a glimpse into the remarkable achievements of these pre-Hispanic cultures.

Archaeological Treasures

Mexico boasts an impressive 37,266 archaeological sites, with 174 open to the public. These sites provide a wealth of information about the historical and cultural development of Mexico’s ancient civilizations. The excellent tourist facilities at these sites enhance the visitor experience, making it easy to learn about the fascinating stories they hold.

Mexico City and Central Mexico

Aztec Ruins: Templo Mayor and Cuicuilco

Nestled in the heart of Mexico City, the Aztec ruins of Templo Mayor stand as a testament to the grandeur of the Aztec Empire. Visitors can explore the remains of this ancient temple complex, once the most important religious and political center of Tenochtitlan.

Just south of Mexico City lies Cuicuilco, home to a large round pyramid that was buried by a volcanic eruption over 2,000 years ago. This enigmatic site offers a glimpse into Mexico’s earliest civilizations.

Teotihuacan: The Ceremonial Center of Mesoamerica

Near Mexico City, Teotihuacan was the most important ceremonial center in Mesoamerica. Here, visitors can marvel at the towering pyramids of the Sun and Moon, as well as the Calzada de los Muertos, the grand avenue that connected the city’s main structures.

Toltec Ruins: Tula

In the state of Hidalgo, Tula is home to impressive Toltec ruins, including the famous 4-meter-high stone statues known as atlantes. These majestic figures offer a glimpse into the artistic and architectural prowess of the Toltecs.

Morelos and Puebla: Ancient Aztec and Pre-Hispanic Sites

Tepozteco and Xochicalco

In Morelos, the ancient Aztec site of Tepozteco, perched atop Cerro del Tepozteco, offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into Aztec culture. Nearby, the enigmatic archaeological zone of Xochicalco boasts pyramids, temples, and ball courts that reveal the complexity of pre-Hispanic societies.

Cacaxtla and Cantona

Tlaxcala is home to Cacaxtla, renowned for its vibrant frescoes that depict scenes from pre-Hispanic life. In Puebla, Cantona, one of Mexico’s most urbanized pre-Hispanic cities, offers a glimpse into the daily lives of its ancient inhabitants.

Cholula: The Great Pyramid

Also in Puebla, Cholula is home to the remains of what is believed to be the largest pyramid in Mesoamerica, standing at an impressive 65 meters high. This massive structure is a testament to the architectural ingenuity of ancient civilizations.

Mayan Legacy in Southeastern Mexico

Palenque, Bonampak, and Yaxchilan

In the southeastern region of Mexico, the state of Chiapas is home to some of the most impressive Mayan archaeological sites. Palenque boasts the tomb of King Pakal, while Bonampak features extraordinary murals that depict Mayan life and rituals. The Usumacinta river valley is home to Yaxchilan, a city with intricate carvings and well-preserved structures.

Calakmul and Tulum

In Campeche, Calakmul covers an area of 70 km2 and has the highest number of Mayan ruins in Mexico. Quintana Roo is home to Tulum, a walled city overlooking the Caribbean Sea that offers a unique blend of Mayan and Caribbean cultures.

Yucatan Peninsula: Mayan Temples and Cities

The state of Yucatan is a treasure trove of Mayan ruins, including the iconic Chichen Itza, Uxmal, and Mayapan. These ancient cities feature towering temples, intricate buildings, and impressive ball courts that showcase the advanced civilization of the Mayans.

Southern Mexico: Zapotec and Olmec Heritage

Monte Alban and Mitla

In Oaxaca, Monte Alban, the ancient capital of the Zapotecs, offers insights into their beliefs and culture. The 190 tombs discovered there provide evidence of their sophisticated understanding of life after death. Nearby Mitla, with its Mixtec and Zapotec ruins, further reveals the rich cultural heritage of southern Mexico.

La Venta and El Tajin

On the Gulf coast, Tabasco is home to La Venta, one of the most important Olmec sites. Known for its colossal head sculptures, La Venta offers a glimpse into the enigmatic Olmec civilization. In Veracruz, El Tajin features Totonac ruins, including the world-famous Piramide de los Nichos with its intricate carvings.

Northern Mexico: Cave Paintings and Desert Sites

Cave Paintings of Baja California

In the central desert of Baja California, pre-Hispanic people created magnificent cave paintings. These anthropomorphous and zoomorphic figures, found in hundreds of caves, offer a glimpse into their artistic and spiritual beliefs.

La Quemada and Paquime

Zacatecas is home to La Quemada, a fortified site abandoned in 1200 AD. Its massive walls and burned ruins provide insights into ancient warfare and defense strategies. In the Chihuahua sierras, Paquime, one of the most important archaeological sites in the northern region, offers a glimpse into the cultural and architectural achievements of pre-Hispanic societies.

Western Mexico: Tarasco Legacy

Tzintzuntzan and Yacatas

In Michoacan, the Tarasco Empire founded cities like Tzintzuntzan, where remains of circular and rectangular constructions known as Yacatas can still be seen. These structures exemplify the religious architecture that existed prior to the Spanish conquest.

Preserving Mexico’s Cultural Heritage

The Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia (INAH) is responsible for conserving Mexico’s rich cultural heritage. Established in 1939, INAH investigates new archaeological finds, preserves cultural traditions, and operates museums that provide valuable information about Mexico’s diverse history, geography, and culture.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Uncategorized

Tracing the Paths of Viking Raiders from Norway to North America: A Historical Journey

by Peter
written by Peter

Viking Raiders: From Norway to North America

The Viking Legacy

From 793 to 1066 CE, Vikings, also known as Norsemen, struck fear into the hearts of many. As skilled raiders, they sailed their longships into harbors, plundering and pillaging settlements. However, beyond their reputation as ruthless warriors, Vikings were also explorers and settlers, driven by a desire to discover new lands.

The Path of the Vikings

Inspired by a thirst for adventure and fertile lands, Vikings embarked on westward journeys from Europe. Their travels took them through distinct paths, which can still be traced today.

Norway: The Viking Homeland

Along the western coast of Norway, Vikings ruled as settlers and raiders. They built their longships in seaside towns like Bergen and Stavanger, embarking on expeditions that would lead them across the Atlantic.

Shetland Islands, Scotland: A Viking Stronghold

Around 850 CE, Vikings arrived in the Shetland Islands, leaving a lasting Norse influence. Evidence of their settlements can be found in archaeological sites and Old Norse place names.

Faroe Islands: A Viking Parliament

The name “Faroe Islands” itself derives from Old Norse. Vikings established a parliamentary meeting site in Tórshavn, the capital city. The Faroese parliament still meets in these buildings, making it the oldest functioning parliament in the world.

Iceland: A Viking Paradise

In the 800s, Vikings settled in Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik. They found a peaceful haven from their plundering past, establishing a thriving society.

Greenland: Erik the Red’s Exile

In 982, Erik the Red was exiled from Iceland for murder and sailed west to Greenland. He found a land that may have been green and fertile during the Medieval Warm Period. Vikings settled in Greenland for about 500 years before mysteriously vanishing.

Canada: The First Viking Settlement in North America

Centuries before Christopher Columbus, Vikings reached North America in the late 10th century. Leif Erikson led a group of settlers to L’Anse Aux Meadows, where they established the first Viking settlement.

Preserved Viking Sites

Jarlshof, Shetland Islands

Jarlshof is one of Scotland’s largest archaeological sites, showcasing over 4,000 years of settlement. Visitors can explore Viking longhouse ruins, Neolithic homes, and medieval farmsteads.

Up Helly Aa, Lerwick

This annual fire festival celebrates Viking heritage. Viking descendants follow a longship in procession, carrying torches and setting fire to a replica Viking boat at the end.

Kvivik, Faroe Islands

The Viking settlement at Kvivik offers a glimpse into a 10th-century Viking village. Ruins include longhouse and barn foundations.

Settlement Museum, Reykjavik

Ruins of a Viking settlement are preserved in an underground exhibit at the Settlement Museum in Reykjavik. Ancient saga manuscripts are also on display.

Hvalsey Church, Greenland

Built around 1300, Hvalsey Church is the best-preserved Viking ruin in Greenland. Stone walls remain, offering a glimpse into the Viking era.

L’Anse Aux Meadows, Canada

Visitors to L’Anse Aux Meadows can explore the actual ruins of Leif Erikson’s settlement and a recreated Viking trading port nearby.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Uncategorized

Rediscovering Werowocomoco: The Lost City that Shaped Jamestown’s Destiny

by Peter
written by Peter

Lost City of Werowocomoco: Uncovering the Algonquian Settlement Crucial to Jamestown’s Survival

Archaeological Discovery

In the annals of American history, the rediscovery of Werowocomoco, the capital of the powerful Algonquian Chief Powhatan, stands as a testament to the resilience of indigenous communities and the enduring legacy of their interactions with European settlers. For centuries, the location of this pivotal settlement remained shrouded in mystery until a remarkable discovery by Lynn Ripley, a York River property owner, in the early 2000s.

Potsherds protruding from the clay on her land caught Ripley’s attention, prompting her to contact archaeologists Randolph Turner and William Martin Gallivan of William and Mary College. Recognizing the significance of her findings, Turner embarked on an extensive search of the area, guided by historical accounts and maps.

Historical Context

The establishment of Jamestown in 1607 marked a turning point in the history of North America. However, the survival of the fledgling colony depended heavily on its relationship with the powerful Algonquian Confederacy led by Chief Powhatan. In 1608, Captain John Smith, an English explorer and mercenary, forged an alliance with Powhatan, securing access to food and supplies for the struggling settlers.

Excavations and Findings

Excavations at Werowocomoco revealed a wealth of artifacts that shed light on the settlement’s history and significance. Archaeologists discovered copperware, glass beads, and other items dating back to the Jamestown era, confirming the close ties between the two communities.

Most notably, the remains of two parallel ditches, each over two football fields in length, were uncovered. These ditches, depicted on a 1608 map by Spanish ambassador Don Pedro de Zuñiga, may have served as boundaries for religious or ceremonial spaces. Radiocarbon analysis revealed that the ditches were constructed in the 13th century, predating Powhatan’s time.

Insights into Algonquian Culture

The discovery of the ditches challenged long-held assumptions about Werowocomoco’s history. It suggested that Powhatan had established his capital at an already existing ancient settlement, rather than founding it himself. This finding underscores the complexity and longevity of Algonquian culture in the Chesapeake Bay region.

Connections to Captain John Smith and Pocahontas

During his 1608 visit to Werowocomoco, Captain John Smith recorded in his journal the distance from the shore to Powhatan’s longhouse as “some thirtie score.” Excavations revealed a structure located approximately 1,500 feet from the riverbank, aligning with Smith’s account and potentially marking the site where the historic encounter between Smith and Pocahontas took place.

Legacy and Preservation

The rediscovery of Werowocomoco not only enriches our understanding of the past but also serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of indigenous peoples in America. The excavation site is now preserved as a historical landmark, and Virginia Indians and Native Americans are actively involved in its interpretation and protection.

As we commemorate the 400th anniversary of Jamestown’s founding, it is fitting to acknowledge the contributions of the Algonquian Confederacy and the lost city of Werowocomoco, which played a pivotal role in shaping the course of American history.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
History and Culture

Unveiling Oslo’s Medieval Secrets: Rare Runes Unearthed by Archaeologists

by Zuzana
written by Zuzana

Archaeologists Discover Rare Medieval Runes in Oslo

Discovery of a Lifetime

Archaeologists in Oslo, Norway, have made two remarkable discoveries: a rare rune bone and a wooden slat inscribed with both Latin and Norse runes. These finds provide valuable insights into the lives and beliefs of medieval Oslo residents.

The Rune Bone

The rune bone, the first of its kind found in Oslo in over 30 years, was discovered by Solveig Thorkildsen of the Norwegian Institute for Cultural Heritage Research (NIKU). Carved onto a rib bone of a large horse or cow, the bone bears 14 runes that have been tentatively dated to between 1100 and 1350 C.E.

Runology expert Kristel Zilmer suggests that the runes may represent a name or nickname, or possibly a phrase describing the bone itself. The meaning of the runes will be further explored through laboratory analysis.

The Wooden Slat

Days after the discovery of the rune bone, Ingeborg Hornkjøl of NIKU found a wooden slat inscribed with runes. The slat, which was found in a water-filled trench, features runes on three of its four sides.

Zilmer’s preliminary analysis reveals the presence of the Latin phrase “manus Domine” or “Domini,” which may be part of the prayer “Into your hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit. You have redeemed me, O Lord, O God of truth.” The slat also bears the Norse name Bryngjerd, which may indicate that the runes were used by a woman of that name to express her dedication to God.

Insights into Medieval Life

These rune discoveries provide a glimpse into the diversity of knowledge and interests of medieval Oslo residents. Runes were not only used for writing, but also for expressing prayers, marking ownership, and recording important events.

The high context-dependency of runes meant that only the elite could read and write, but a broader segment of the population would have been familiar with common runes that referred to phrases, names, and well-known texts.

Contextualizing the Discoveries

The discovery of the runes is part of ongoing excavations at Oslo’s Medieval Park. In December, NIKU archaeologists unearthed a medieval carving of a person wearing a crown and holding a falcon. This carving, made from animal bone, may have served as the handle to a knife or tool and may be one of the oldest Scandinavian depictions of falconry.

These archaeological discoveries collectively shed light on the rich cultural heritage of medieval Oslo and provide valuable insights into the lives and beliefs of its inhabitants.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Archaeology

Arroyo Seco 2: Uncovering Early Human Presence in Argentina 14,000 Years Ago

by Rosa
written by Rosa

Evidence of Early Human Settlement in Argentina

Archaeological Discoveries at Arroyo Seco 2

For decades, the Clovis culture was believed to be the first group of humans to cross the Bering Land Bridge and settle in the Americas. However, recent evidence has challenged this notion, suggesting that humans may have arrived much earlier.

One of the most significant pieces of evidence comes from an excavation site in Argentina called Arroyo Seco 2. Located in the pampas outside the city of Tres Arroyos, this site has yielded a wealth of artifacts and animal remains that provide insights into human activity in the region thousands of years ago.

Stone Tools and Animal Bones

Archaeologists at Arroyo Seco 2 have uncovered over 50 stone tools made of chert and quartzite. These tools show signs of wear and tear consistent with scraping animal hides. The materials used to make the tools were not found locally, indicating that they were likely transported to the site by humans.

The site also contains thousands of animal bones, which have been carbon dated to between 14,064 and 13,068 years ago. Microscopic examination of the bones reveals fractures consistent with the use of stone tools, and most of the bones lack puncture marks left by carnivores.

Hunting and Processing of Extinct Animals

The animal bones found at Arroyo Seco 2 represent a diverse range of species, including many that are now extinct. These include two species of horse, giant armadillos, giant ground sloths, camels, and others.

The large animal remains, such as those of the giant sloths, lack skulls and pelvises, suggesting that the hunters butchered the animals at the kill site before transporting them to their camp. The sheer size of these animals would have made it challenging to transport entire carcasses.

Hunting Camp Hypothesis

While human remains have not been found at the site, the evidence suggests that Arroyo Seco 2 was likely a seasonal hunting camp for pre-Clovis people. The presence of stone tools, animal bones, and the lack of natural bone traps all point to human involvement.

Supporting Evidence from Other Sites

The findings at Arroyo Seco 2 are not isolated. Other archaeological sites in South America have yielded similar evidence of early human settlement. For example, archaeologist Tom Dillehay identified artifacts from a 14,000-year-old human settlement in Chile in the late 1970s.

Implications for Human Migration

The evidence from Arroyo Seco 2 and other sites challenges the traditional view of human migration to the Americas. It suggests that humans may have arrived in South America thousands of years earlier than previously thought, and that the Clovis culture was not the only group involved in the colonization of the continent.

Arroyo Seco 2’s Significance

The findings at Arroyo Seco 2 provide valuable insights into the expansion of Homo sapiens across the world. They indicate that humans were present in southern South America at least 14,000 years ago, and that they were skilled hunters and toolmakers who adapted to the unique environment of the pampas.

Ongoing Research

Archaeologists continue to excavate and study the Arroyo Seco 2 site, hoping to uncover further evidence of early human activity in the region. This research is helping us to understand the complex history of human migration and settlement in the Americas.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Newer Posts
Older Posts