Wreck of ancient Roman ship found off coast of Puglia

Ancient Roman Shipwreck Discovered Off Puglia Coast

Italy’s finance police announced on Tuesday the discovery of a large Roman-era shipwreck resting on the Ionian Sea bed off the coast of Puglia. The vessel, dating back to antiquity, still contains a cargo of amphoras, offering valuable insight into ancient maritime trade.

The ship was initially located in June 2025 during an inspection, but authorities delayed public disclosure to protect the site. According to the police, all parties agreed to maintain strict confidentiality to prevent looting and ensure the preservation of the site’s archaeological information while developing the best plan for intervention.

This discovery highlights the richness of Italy’s underwater cultural heritage and provides a rare opportunity to study Roman-era seafaring and commerce.

England May Hold the Lost Grave of a Legendary Viking Warlord

Archaeologists May Have Found the Burial Site of Viking Leader Ivarr the Boneless

New archaeological research suggests that Ivarr the Boneless, one of the most notorious figures of the Viking Age, could be buried beneath a coastal hill in north-west England. For over a thousand years, the location of his grave has remained a mystery, but a windswept mound overlooking the Irish Sea may offer the strongest lead yet.

A Prominent Coastal Mound

Archaeologist Steve Dickinson, working in Cumbria, believes the mound—known in medieval sources as Coningeshou, or “The King’s Mound”—could conceal the ship burial of the Viking war leader. Measuring approximately 60 meters in diameter and six meters high, the mound’s size aligns with elite Viking burial practices. Its precise location has not been disclosed to protect it from looting.

Dickinson points out that references to Coningeshou in Icelandic sagas, combined with the mound’s scale and strategic coastal location, strongly suggest a royal burial rather than a natural hill.

A Potential Viking Necropolis

If confirmed, this would represent the first monumental Viking ship burial identified in the UK and one of only a few known in north-west Europe. The surrounding landscape further supports the idea of a high-status site: dozens of smaller mounds nearby may have served as the graves of warriors, retainers, or family members, similar to arrangements seen in other elite Viking cemeteries.

Dickinson told the BBC that the discovery could reveal a previously unknown Viking necropolis along the Cumbrian coast, reshaping current understanding of Viking activity and influence in north-west England.

A fifteenth-century depiction of Ívarr and Ubba ravaging the countryside as it appears on folio 48r of British Library Harley 2278.

Clues Beneath the Surface Point to Viking Burial

Although no excavation has yet occurred, non-invasive surveys and metal-detecting in the surrounding area have revealed promising material evidence. Archaeologists have uncovered large iron ship rivets and lead weights, items consistent with Viking-Age maritime activity and silver-based economies.

While these finds do not confirm a ship burial, they strongly suggest the presence of elite wealth and seafaring activity near the mound—exactly what one might expect near the grave of a powerful figure like Ivarr the Boneless. Later this year, Dickinson plans to conduct geophysical scans of the mound to identify any ship-shaped anomalies beneath its surface.

Who Was Ivarr the Boneless?

Ivarr the Boneless was far from a minor raider. In the ninth century, he emerged as a leading commander of the Great Heathen Army, which launched devastating campaigns across Anglo-Saxon kingdoms.

He is traditionally associated with the legendary Ragnar Lothbrok, though historians debate whether this connection was familial, symbolic, or literary. What is clear is Ivarr’s historical impact: he helped capture York and played a key role in establishing Dublin as a Norse stronghold. While modern TV dramas have popularized his story, the real Ivarr was likely far more complex—and enigmatic—than fictional depictions suggest.

The Mystery Behind “The Boneless”

Ivarr’s epithet, beinlausi (“boneless”), has long puzzled scholars. Some suggest he may have suffered from osteogenesis imperfecta, a rare genetic disorder causing fragile bones. Others interpret the name metaphorically, suggesting it could refer to flexibility, ritual significance, or even naval skill, drawing on Old Norse linguistic nuances where “boneless” could imply fluidity or agility rather than a physical condition.

A confirmed burial preserving skeletal remains could finally allow scientists to test these theories. However, even if human remains are found, definitive identification would remain challenging without inscriptions or DNA comparisons.

Metal ship rivets have been found in the area.

A Burial Fit for a Viking Ruler

Viking ship burials were reserved for society’s elite. The deceased would be laid in a vessel along with weapons, jewelry, ceremonial regalia, food offerings, and sometimes even sacrificed animals, before the ship was covered with earth to create a monumental mound.

In Britain, the most famous ship burial is Sutton Hoo, though it belongs to the Anglo-Saxon period rather than the Viking era. A confirmed Viking ship burial in Cumbria would dramatically change our understanding of Scandinavian power and status in early medieval Britain.

What Comes Next

Archaeologists caution that even if the mound contains a ship, definitive identification may remain difficult without inscriptions or DNA evidence. Nonetheless, discovering a Viking ship burial on the Cumbrian coast—royal or otherwise—would be a historic milestone.

For now, the mound stands silent, overlooking the ancient sea routes linking Britain, Ireland, and Scandinavia. Beneath it may lie clues not only about Ivarr the Boneless, but also about how power, belief, and memory were expressed in the Viking Age.

Whether Ivarr rests there or not, the search itself is reshaping historians’ understanding of the Norse world in Britain.

Lost knife belonging to WW1 soldier to be displayed at archaeology open day in Susse

World War One Soldier’s Knife Among Finds from Sussex Excavation

A lost knife belonging to a World War One soldier will feature in an upcoming exhibition in Sussex, alongside other artefacts uncovered during recent excavations at Cooden Camp in Bexhill.

The dig, led by Archaeology South-East (ASE), was conducted ahead of plans to build 70 homes off Clavering Walk, on land that was once part of the military camp. Archaeologists uncovered training camp features as well as personal items used by soldiers stationed there.

One notable find is a bone-handled knife with the initials A.I. carved into it. Researchers noted that corrosion on the handle resulted from the iron scale tang embedded inside. Historical investigation has suggested several potential owners, including 19-year-old Lance Corporal Alfred Isted from Burwash, East Sussex, who was later killed in action.

Simon Stevens, who led the excavation, explained: “Our digs can tell us only so much about the men training here. That’s why we’re combining archaeology with historical research and stories from descendants, to bring these soldiers’ stories to life.”

Cooden Camp is remembered as the initial training ground for men of the 11th, 12th, and 13th Battalions of the Royal Sussex Regiment. Many of these soldiers later fought in the Battle of the Boar’s Head at Richebourg-I’Avoué in France on 30 June 1916, an assault on heavily defended German positions that resulted in around 1,100 casualties across the three battalions. The tragic day became known locally as “The Day Sussex Died.”

Neanderthals and early humans may have interbred over a vast area

We are getting a clearer sense of where and how often Homo sapiens and Neanderthals interbred, and it turns out the behaviour was much more common than we first thought

Homo Sapiens and Neanderthals Interbred Across a Vast Region

Recent research suggests that Homo sapiens and Neanderthals likely interbred over a wide area spanning western Europe to Asia.

It has long been known that early humans and Neanderthals mated, which explains why most non-African populations today carry about 2% Neanderthal DNA. This interbreeding also led to the replacement of Neanderthal Y chromosome lineages with those from Homo sapiens.

However, the exact locations and scale of these encounters have remained uncertain. We do know that Neanderthal ancestors left Africa around 600,000 years ago, spreading into Europe and western Asia. Meanwhile, the earliest evidence of Homo sapiens leaving Africa comes from skeletal remains in present-day Israel and Greece, dating back roughly 200,000 years.

These timelines provide a framework for understanding when and where interbreeding between the two species likely took place, offering new insights into human evolutionary history.

Medieval Burial Found in Croatian Bronze Age Burial Mound

PULA, CROATIA — Researchers from Juraj Dobrila University of Pula have conducted excavations at Vrh Kosir, a Bronze Age burial mound located on Veli Brijunin Island within Brijuni National Park. While the tumulus dates back over 3,000 years, the team also discovered a secondary burial that has been radiocarbon dated to the first half of the 14th century.

In addition to the medieval interment, archaeologists recovered a human jaw, numerous bone fragments, and more than 50 teeth from multiple individuals on the opposite side of the mound. These findings highlight the mound’s long-term use as a burial site spanning several millennia.

The excavation provides valuable insight into both Bronze Age and medieval funerary practices in the region, revealing how burial sites were reused and adapted over centuries.

Contents of 1,900-Year-Old Roman Vial Analyzed

SIVAS, TURKEY — Researchers have uncovered remarkable evidence of Roman medical practices through chemical analysis of residues in glass vials from Pergamon, western Turkey. A team comprising archaeologist Cenker Atila (Sivas Cumhuriyet University), chemist İlker Demirbolat (Istanbul Kent University), and medical historian Rana Babaç Çelebi (Istanbul Medipol University) studied the contents of these Roman containers using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.

Out of several vials, conclusive results came from a sealed unguentarium found in a tomb in ancient Pergamon, once home to the famous second-century A.D. physician Galen. The analysis identified two organic compounds, coprostanol and 24-ethylcoprostanol, which are produced in the digestive tracts of animals that metabolize cholesterol. The ratio of these compounds indicated that the material was human feces.

Interestingly, the substance was mixed with thyme, likely to mask its strong odor. “Because we are well-acquainted with ancient textual sources, we immediately recognized this as a medicinal preparation used by the famous Roman physician Galen,” explained Atila.

Medicinal recipes containing feces were historically believed to treat inflammation, infections, and reproductive disorders. To make them more tolerable, herbs, wine, or vinegar were added. The findings suggest that Galen’s written prescriptions were grounded in actual medical practice, reflecting a combination of empirical knowledge and traditional remedies.

This study provides a rare chemical confirmation of historical texts, offering direct insight into ancient Roman pharmacology and therapeutic methods.

news Webuild secures Rome Metro C section T1 contract reinforcing leadership in sustainable metro construction

Webuild has been awarded section T1 of Rome Metro Line C, strengthening its global role in metro systems and sustainable urban mobility delivery.

leader in metro construction and sustainable urban transport. The announcement comes shortly after the Group won new contracts related to the Riyadh Metro extension and additional works on the Naples metro system.

Delivering a Key Section in Northern Rome

As part of the Metro C Consortium, led by Webuild in partnership with Vianini Lavori, the company will design and construct the section connecting Clodio Mazzini and Farnesina stations in northern Rome. The overall contract is valued at €776 million, with €268 million allocated to Webuild’s share. The scope covers both engineering design and full construction.

Building on Recent Milestones

The award follows the opening in December of the Colosseo Fori Imperiali and Porta Metronia stations. These new archaeo-stations extend Line C by three kilometres and create a vital interchange with Metro Line B. Their development involved highly complex construction techniques to safeguard Rome’s archaeological assets, including the careful handling of over 625,000 cubic metres of archaeological material along the route from Monte Compatri Pantano to Clodio Mazzini.

Integrated Construction with Section T2

Section T1 will be developed in close coordination with section T2, which is currently undergoing executive design and will feature the first tunnel crossing beneath the Tiber River. This integrated strategy allows tunnel-boring operations to continue seamlessly from Farnesina to Piazza Venezia, reducing interruptions and avoiding fragmented construction. Work at Venezia station is already advancing as part of the project’s second major development phase.

A Growing Network and Global Impact

When fully completed, Metro Line C will span 29 kilometres and include 31 stations, of which 24 are already operational. The project further strengthens Webuild’s international portfolio, which now includes more than 890 kilometres of metro lines constructed worldwide, contributing to greener, more efficient, and technologically advanced urban mobility systems.

The freezer organization trick that cuts food waste in half

Last month, while reaching into my freezer for chicken, I uncovered a forgotten container of chili labeled “September.” It was already January. Behind it sat a bag of frozen vegetables so badly freezer-burned they looked ancient. That discovery felt uncomfortably familiar.

That small moment made me realize I was using my freezer as a dumping ground for good intentions. After adopting one simple organization method, I’ve nearly cut my food waste in half and now regularly use what I freeze. Even better, the system takes less than five minutes to maintain.

The Hidden Problem in Most Freezers

Most people use their freezers without much planning. Leftovers get tossed in when meals run short on time, frozen foods are shoved wherever there’s space, and containers stack up with no real order. Months later, we dig through the freezer only to discard food we can’t identify or date.

On average, households in the United States waste about $1,500 worth of food each year, much of it because items are forgotten. Freezers are meant to preserve food, yet they often become places where meals slowly fade from memory.

As nutrition expert Christopher Wharton from Arizona State University notes, reducing food waste at home is one of the easiest ways to make a meaningful impact.

Using a “First In, First Out” Freezer System

The solution that worked for me comes from professional kitchens: the FIFO, or “first in, first out,” method. To adapt it for home use, I added a simple rule—everything flows from right to left.

Newly frozen items always go on the right side of each shelf or drawer. When it’s time to cook or eat, I take items from the left. This creates an automatic rotation, ensuring older food gets used first instead of being buried under newer additions.

Think of it as a slow-moving conveyor belt. Food enters on one side and gradually shifts toward the “use next” spot.

Creating Clear Freezer Zones

Organization becomes much easier when the freezer is divided into zones instead of being treated as one big space.

I designated the top shelf for ready-to-eat meals like leftovers and batch-cooked dishes. The middle shelf holds proteins and cooking ingredients. The door stores frequently used items, such as frozen fruit for smoothies. The bottom drawer is reserved for vegetables and bulk foods.

Within each area, the right-to-left rule still applies. When I freeze soup, it goes on the right. Older containers move left and naturally become the next meals I reach for.

Dana Gunders, executive director of ReFED, describes the freezer as a “pause button” that gives food a second chance to be eaten instead of wasted.

Keeping a Simple Freezer Inventory

The forgotten chili problem disappeared once I added a basic inventory list to the outside of my freezer. It’s just a sheet of paper with two columns: the item and the date it was frozen.

Every time something goes in, I write it down. When I use it, I cross it off. This way, I know exactly what’s available without opening the freezer and digging around.

Once a week, I review the list and plan meals around items that have been there the longest. Vegetables that have sat for a while become part of a stir-fry, and older leftovers turn into quick lunches.

Labels That Make Sense

At first, our labels were vague and unhelpful. A container marked “soup” told us nothing about the flavor, portion size, or age.

Now I label everything clearly using masking tape. Each label includes the name of the dish, the freezing date, and how many servings it contains. For example: “Vegetable curry – 1/15 – 2 servings.” This small change removed all the guesswork.

Making Frozen Food Fit Everyday Life

Freezing food is especially helpful on busy days. Knowing there’s a homemade meal ready to heat up makes it easier to skip takeout after a long day.

The left-to-right system also pairs perfectly with batch cooking. When I cook extra portions on the weekend, I freeze half and place them on the right. A couple of weeks later, when they reach the left side, they feel like a ready-made gift.

The Bigger Benefits

What started as an effort to waste less food has completely changed how I shop and plan meals. I now buy items in bulk with confidence, freeze produce before it spoils, and rely on my freezer instead of letting food go bad.

Food waste expert Kai Robertson sums it up well: the freezer is one of the most powerful tools for reducing food loss, whether you freeze items yourself or buy them frozen.

Since adopting this system, my grocery spending has dropped by about 20 percent. Meal planning is easier, food waste is minimal, and I no longer feel guilty throwing away forgotten meals.

Final Thoughts

This approach works because it’s simple. There’s no need for expensive containers or complicated systems. Just create clear zones, rotate food from right to left, keep a short inventory list, and label items clearly.

In the past three months, I’ve thrown away only one frozen item—those badly burned vegetables from before I started. Everything else gets used because the system naturally pushes older food forward.

Try it for a month. Set up your freezer zones, start a basic inventory, and see how quickly forgotten food turns into dependable meals. Your budget, your schedule, and your peace of mind will benefit—mine certainly have.

Profile: Chinese diver brings deep sea history to the surface

FUZHOU, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) — Dressed in bulky diving equipment and surrounded by the steady hum of his gear, Chen Hao descends slowly into the deep blue, guided by a rope. The water around him is thick with silt, and visibility fades as he moves downward with careful precision.

Then his hand touches wood — a ship’s plank that has remained undisturbed for hundreds of years. Above him is the open sea; before him is a tangible link to the past.

For nearly 20 years, Chen has been making such dives. Now in his early fifties, he serves as deputy head of the underwater archaeology center at the Fujian provincial research institute of archaeology in eastern China. He is among the few Chinese archaeologists who still spend a large portion of the year working beneath the sea.

From northern waters to China’s southernmost seas, Chen’s dives trace routes once sailed by merchant vessels along the ancient Maritime Silk Road.

Broad-shouldered and weathered by sun and salt, Chen appears shaped as much by the ocean as by academic life. During winter, when rough seas make diving unsafe, he shifts his focus to land-based work — organizing survey data and preparing for future missions, including an upcoming joint underwater archaeology project in South Africa. Even when he cannot dive, the sea remains central to his work.

“I’d rather be out at sea than sitting behind a desk,” Chen said. “That’s where history reveals itself.”

Before becoming an underwater archaeologist, Chen held a stable office job. In 2005, while working at the Fujian Museum, he was assigned to observe the excavation of the Wanjiao No. 1 shipwreck — a Qing Dynasty (1644–1911) merchant ship discovered near Pingtan County.

“Divers brought up hundreds of porcelain pieces every day,” he recalled. “The ship carried tens of thousands of blue-and-white ceramics, preserved so well that everyone was amazed.” Soon afterward, Chen left his office position and committed himself fully to underwater archaeology.

The shift required both physical strength and determination. In 2009, at age 35 — just meeting the age limit — Chen joined the fifth national underwater archaeology training program. He was the oldest participant and served as class monitor. Over three months, trainees earned more than a dozen professional diving certifications before heading straight into fieldwork at submerged sites.

“You’d fall asleep the moment you hit the bed,” Chen said. “But the excitement of working with relics on the seabed kept us going.” Of that original group, fewer than five are still actively working underwater today.

Danger has always been part of the job. While diving near Wenzhou in Zhejiang Province, Chen once worked in near-total darkness, unable to read his compass or wrist computer. He relied entirely on touch, experience and instinct.

Near Fujian’s Shengbeiyu islet, strong tidal currents repeatedly pulled him away from target areas, leaving his legs numb from exhaustion. After returning to the deck, he sometimes lay motionless for over an hour to recover. Those demanding dives eventually helped the team pinpoint the location of a Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368) shipwreck.

The waters off Pingtan have posed the greatest challenge. Winds at force six or higher batter the area for more than 300 days a year. Reefs are densely packed, currents constantly shift, and survey vessels often strike submerged rocks. Despite these hazards, the area was historically a major shipping route. For centuries, countless vessels passed through — many of which sank — leaving one of China’s richest underwater archaeological zones.

The search for shipwrecks often begins with local fishermen. Chen spends long periods along the coast listening to their accounts. “Fishermen understand the sea better than anyone,” he said. “When they sense something unusual below, it can lead us to important discoveries.”

Looting is another serious threat. Entire sites can be destroyed in days, wiping out centuries of historical evidence. For Chen, protecting sites comes before excavation. His institute works closely with the coast guard, police and fisheries authorities, setting up round-the-clock monitoring and regular patrols in key areas.

Over the years, Chen has seen major technological advances. Early equipment was heavy and inefficient, increasing risk and limiting productivity. Today, divers rely on real-time navigation and communication systems, while sonar and imaging technologies allow wrecks to be located with far greater accuracy.

Even so, recovery requires extreme care. Materials such as ropes, bamboo fragments and hull fillings can disintegrate at the slightest touch after centuries underwater. Chen’s team uses specially adapted pneumatic tools to gently remove sediment and stabilizes fragile items with epoxy resin before bringing them to the surface.

Several discoveries have marked key moments in Chen’s career. Sites he helped locate and excavate have yielded major breakthroughs, including the first physical evidence of long-lost navigational tools preserved underwater, the best-preserved mid-Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) merchant ship found in coastal waters, and a Yuan Dynasty vessel containing an exceptional collection of Longquan celadon that earned national recognition.

The demands of the job have affected family life. Long assignments at sea have left most household responsibilities to his wife, and Chen has missed birthdays and family illnesses. “My family’s understanding and support are what allow me to continue,” he said.

Today, Chen divides his time between leading dives and training the next generation of underwater archaeologists, often serving as an instructor in national programs. The field remains small in China, with only a few dozen active specialists nationwide. “Fujian’s vast underwater heritage will depend on those who follow,” he said.

Chen has no plans to step away. “Every dive is a dialogue with history,” he said. “Every excavation adds a new chapter to human civilization.” As long as he is able, he will continue descending into the depths, bringing hidden history back into the light.

Chinese aviation blends culture and tourism to elevate travel experiences

At Terminal 3 of Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport in eastern China’s Zhejiang Province, a beautifully arranged hall dedicated to intangible cultural heritage is attracting the attention of passing travelers. Inside, display cases present finely crafted heritage items, including Xiaoshan lace, along with clear descriptions that explain the craftsmanship and cultural stories behind each work.

Across China, airports are increasingly being redesigned as cultural spaces, allowing passengers to explore local traditions through exhibitions and temporary markets while they travel.

At Terminal 5 of Xianyang International Airport in Xi’an, in northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, an on-site museum showcases more than 100 archaeological artifacts discovered during the airport’s construction. These exhibits give travelers the chance to view valuable cultural relics up close as they wait for their flights.

Meanwhile, Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport in Shandong Province offers a festive atmosphere with a Chinese New Year market. Travelers can watch demonstrations of traditional crafts such as sugar painting and dough figurine making, and purchase local specialties, including the city’s famous Tsingtao beer, to take home.

Cultural creativity is also extending into the skies. At Beijing Daxing International Airport, a specially designed aircraft inspired by the National Museum of China recently completed its first flight to Shanghai. This initiative was created through a partnership between the museum and China Eastern Airlines.

The aircraft’s exterior features children’s artwork depicting well-known cultural relics, such as the Houmuwu ding and an elegant empress crown from the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644). Inside the cabin, decorative elements on overhead bins and tray tables continue the museum-inspired theme.

Passenger Ms. Xu said she booked her ticket as soon as she heard about the inaugural flight. She described the experience as enjoyable and memorable, noting that passengers received specially designed souvenirs, including custom boarding passes, postcards, and refrigerator magnets. She added that the creative blend of culture and aviation left a strong impression.

Many airlines are now introducing themed aircraft with distinctive exterior designs, while others are offering special flight experiences linked to major sporting events and significant cultural occasions.

As civil aviation becomes more closely connected with culture and tourism, airports are evolving from simple transportation hubs into cultural destinations that reflect local life. At the same time, flights are being reimagined to offer travelers unique and memorable experiences.

Cultural tourism related to aviation continues to expand and diversify. In particular, educational tours focused on aerospace and aviation have become increasingly popular among students and families, providing immersive learning experiences alongside travel.

Visitors view cultural relics at Xianyang International Airport in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province

Several airports, including Yangzhou Taizhou International Airport in Jiangsu Province and Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport in Henan Province, have launched aviation science programs aimed at helping young people gain a clearer understanding of the aviation industry.

Yang Honghao, director of the Industry Research Institute at the China Tourism Academy, has proposed wider use of technologies such as virtual reality, augmented reality, and the metaverse in future civil aviation–themed educational tours. He also suggested creating integrated tourism packages that combine regional aviation resources, low-altitude tourism, and educational activities, while expanding these programs to serve a broader range of age groups.

Low-altitude tourism is emerging as another important source of innovative travel experiences. At Beijing’s Badaling Great Wall, visitors can take helicopter rides to enjoy sweeping views from above, while drone shows and other low-altitude attractions are becoming increasingly popular.

This sector has developed a wide variety of offerings, including sightseeing flights, sports-related activities, and educational experiences. Industry experts point out that helicopter tours, skydiving, and hot air balloon rides currently dominate hands-on experiences, while applications involving unmanned aerial vehicles—such as drone performances—are becoming new engines of growth in the low-altitude tourism market.

As the winter travel season reaches its peak, major airlines and airports are introducing customized services to better serve travelers. China Eastern Airlines has expanded direct routes and increased flight frequency to popular winter destinations. It also offers free ski equipment check-in at airports in Shenyang, Harbin, Changchun, and Urumqi.

Meanwhile, China Southern Airlines provides hot drinks and anti-slip mats at Harbin Taiping International Airport to improve passenger comfort. Hohhot Baita International Airport in Inner Mongolia has partnered with airlines and local tourism authorities to offer scenic-area discounts with boarding passes, as well as combined “flight plus ski ticket” deals, giving travelers added convenience and value.

Cultural diplomacy: India to send Devnimori relics of Lord Buddha to Sri Lanka for exposition

The relic casket found within Devnimori Stupa at a height of 24 feet from the base, made out of green schist

A Symbol of Shared Spiritual Heritage

In an important act of spiritual engagement and cultural diplomacy, the revered Devnimori Relics of Lord Buddha, currently housed at The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda in Vadodara, are set to travel to Sri Lanka for a public exhibition. The exposition will take place in Colombo from February 4 to February 10, after which the relics will return to India on February 11.

Ceremonial Send-Off from Gujarat

The sacred relics will depart following a formal ceremony in Vadodara, where Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel will offer floral tributes and a ceremonial guard of honour. The delegation accompanying the relics will include Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat, Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, senior monks, and government officials.

According to an official government statement, the journey highlights India’s historical role as the birthplace of Buddhism and reflects the deep spiritual and cultural connections shared by India and Sri Lanka over centuries.

Travel with Full State Honours

The relics will be transported aboard a special aircraft, traveling from Vadodara to Colombo via Delhi. In keeping with established protocol and the sanctity of the relics, they will receive full state honours during transit.

The Indian delegation will participate in several ceremonial, religious, and official events in Colombo. These include the formal opening of the exposition and related cultural showcases that present India’s rich Buddhist legacy and its ongoing cultural engagement with the region.

Public Veneration at Gangaramaya Temple

During the exhibition, the Devnimori Relics will be placed at Gangaramaya Temple, one of Sri Lanka’s most prominent and spiritually significant Buddhist centers. Devotees and visitors will have the opportunity to pay their respects at this renowned religious institution in the heart of Colombo.

Origins of the Devnimori Relics

The Devnimori Relics originate from the Devnimori archaeological site near Shamlaji in Gujarat’s Aravalli district. This historically important location was first systematically explored in 1957, uncovering Buddhist structures and sacred remains that demonstrate the strong presence of Buddhism in western India during the early centuries of the Common Era.

Beyond their archaeological value, the relics embody the enduring teachings of Lord Buddha, including peace, compassion, and harmony, making them both a historical treasure and a living spiritual symbol.

Cultural Diplomacy and Regional Relations

The exhibition in Sri Lanka also serves a broader diplomatic purpose. By sharing one of its most sacred Buddhist relics, India reinforces the civilizational roots of its relationship with Sri Lanka—one founded on shared beliefs, history, and values.

This initiative strengthens cultural diplomacy and supports a people-centered approach to foreign relations. The exposition enhances mutual trust, deepens public engagement, and complements formal diplomatic efforts with meaningful cultural exchange.

Details of the Sacred Relic Casket

The relic casket was discovered inside the Devnimori Stupa, approximately 24 feet above the base, and is crafted from green schist stone. It bears inscriptions in Brahmi script and Sanskrit, identifying it as the resting place of the Buddha’s bodily relics.

Inside the stone casket is a copper container holding sacred ashes, silk fabric, beads, and organic material. The casket itself consists of three distinct parts: a base, a lid, and a rounded top knob.

Within the copper box, researchers found a gold-coated silver-copper bottle shaped like a small amphora, along with silk cloth and protective clay. These items are carefully preserved on a cotton base to ensure their long-term conservation.

Continuing India’s Global Buddhist Outreach

The Sri Lanka exposition builds on India’s long-standing practice of sharing its Buddhist heritage internationally. In recent years, sacred relics of Lord Buddha have been displayed in countries including Thailand, Mongolia, Vietnam, Bhutan, and the Russian Federation, attracting millions of devotees and fostering stronger people-to-people ties worldwide.

Through initiatives like this, India continues to affirm its role as a responsible guardian of global Buddhist heritage while promoting peace, harmony, and regional cooperation across Asia.

Qatar museum displays Afghanistan’s 5,000-year history through art exhibition

Qatar Museum Showcases Afghanistan’s 5,000 Years of Art and Culture

KABUL (Pajhwok) – The Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) in Qatar has inaugurated a major exhibition titled “Empire of Light: Visions and Voices from Afghanistan,” offering a powerful exploration of Afghanistan’s 5,000-year history of art and culture.

According to the museum’s official website, the exhibition will run from February 2 to May 30 and is organized in collaboration with the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC).

The exhibition features nearly 100 historical and contemporary works, including archaeological discoveries, exquisite textiles, finely detailed paintings, as well as contemporary artworks, video installations, and multimedia pieces. Together, these works trace the evolution of Afghan artistic expression from antiquity to the present day.

MIA stated that the exhibition examines Afghanistan’s cultural heritage as a living legacy, shaped by centuries of creativity, cultural exchange, and enduring traditions. It offers fresh perspectives on the country’s complexity, the richness of its artistic output, and the importance of preserving cultural heritage for future generations.

In a statement, the museum said:

“Afghanistan has been an exceptional land for thousands of years—a place where cultures have intersected, ideas have flourished, and creativity in art, architecture, and everyday life has continually evolved.”

The exhibition also seeks to challenge common perceptions, emphasizing that Afghanistan is far more than the subject of daily news headlines. Through its ancient cities, sacred sites, rare artifacts, and contemporary voices, the exhibition highlights the nation’s profound spiritual traditions and artistic brilliance, telling the stories of the people who have shaped Afghanistan’s enduring cultural legacy.

Ministry declines permission to relocate WWI memorial

ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of National Heritage and Culture has denied permission to a housing society’s developers to move a British World War I memorial to make way for a commercial project.

According to a ministry official, the memorial cannot be relocated unless it is first legally protected. This requires the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to submit the relevant revenue records, which it has failed to provide despite repeated requests.

The memorial, built by the British Empire after 1914 to honor local soldiers who fought in World War I, is located on Kuri Road near Rehara village. It serves as a tribute to the sacrifices of local communities but is now under threat due to development activities planned by the CDA and a housing society.

Developers have excavated and leveled the surrounding land, leaving the monument standing on a narrow mound approximately 35 to 40 feet high, making it inaccessible. The structure has tilted and is at risk of collapsing.

Officials from the Department of Archaeology and Museums (DOAM) expressed concern upon seeing images of the memorial precariously balanced on a thin column of earth. DOAM, which is tasked with documenting and safeguarding historical sites in the capital, last contacted the CDA chairman in May last year, requesting the required revenue records to formally protect the site.

A ministry official stated that DOAM has been writing to the CDA’s revenue department since 2020 for records related to the war memorial and other heritage sites, including the nearby Mughal-era Rehara Mosque, but has received no response.

CDA spokesperson Shahid Kiyani said that developers intended to preserve the memorial more effectively. Six months ago, the CDA and the housing society sought a no-objection certificate (NOC) from DOAM to relocate the memorial to a proposed roundabout about 100 meters from its original location, claiming this would improve public access and visibility.

However, DOAM rejected the proposal, arguing that the memorial was erected to honor villagers from Rehara and nearby areas who lost their lives in the war, and relocating it would undermine its historical significance.

The ministry emphasized that even if relocation were approved, the memorial must first be legally protected and included in Islamabad’s official list of heritage sites, which cannot happen without documentation from the CDA.

Recently, seven additional archaeological sites, such as Rawat Fort, Mai Qamro’s Mosque, Muqarab Khan’s Tomb, Ban Faqiran Stupa, and Shah Allahditta Cave, were added to the city’s heritage list. The ministry continues to urge the CDA to provide records so that other sites, including the British War Memorial, can also receive protection.

The Ministry of Heritage acknowledged the urgent situation and warned that without immediate action, the historically important memorial—already showing signs of long-term neglect—could be permanently lost.

Medieval Underground Tunnel Discovered Inside a 6,000-Year-Old Neolithic Burial Site in Germany

Medieval Underground Tunnel Unearthed within Neolithic Burial Complex in Germany

A remarkable archaeological discovery in central Germany has revealed a rare medieval underground tunnel hidden within a much older Neolithic burial complex, shedding new light on how ancient landscapes were reused across millennia.

During excavations near the village of Reinstedt in Saxony-Anhalt, researchers uncovered a late medieval Erdstall—a man-made underground passage system—cut directly into a Neolithic trapezoidal ditch dating back to the 4th millennium BCE. The discovery was made by the State Office for Heritage Management and Archaeology of Saxony-Anhalt during investigations ahead of a planned wind energy project.

A Site Used for Over 4,000 Years

The excavation area, located on a low hill known as the Dornberg east of Reinstedt, had already proven archaeologically rich. Findings include:

• A Neolithic trapezoidal ditch from the Baalberg culture

• Poorly preserved late Neolithic burial remains

• Traces of a possible Bronze Age burial mound

Together, these discoveries demonstrate that the site was repeatedly used for ritual and funerary purposes over thousands of years.

What makes the new find extraordinary is the discovery of a medieval underground structure cut directly into this much older Neolithic feature. Such a structure, known as an Erdstall, consists of narrow tunnels carved by hand into compact soil, often loess. These features are rare in northern Germany and have long puzzled archaeologists.

What Is an Erdstall?

Erdställe (plural) are artificial underground passage systems typically dating to the late Middle Ages. Their purpose remains debated:

• Some scholars interpret them as hiding places during times of conflict

• Others suggest they may have served ritual or symbolic functions

In Reinstedt, archaeologists initially mistook the feature for a grave due to its elongated shape and the presence of a large stone slab. However, further excavation revealed sloping fill layers, medieval pottery fragments, stones, and preserved voids—clear indicators of an underground tunnel system.

This discovery highlights the long-term significance of the Reinstedt site, revealing how landscapes can accumulate layers of human activity over thousands of years—from Neolithic rituals to medieval subterranean constructions.

Inside the Medieval Tunnel

The tunnel, which curves toward the northwest, measures approximately 1–1.25 meters in height and 50–70 centimeters in width. Parts of the passage feature a pointed gable-shaped ceiling, while the entrance area includes a carved step and a niche in the wall.

Among the most intriguing finds inside the tunnel were:

• A horseshoe

• Fragments of late medieval ceramic vessels

• A fox skeleton

• Numerous small mammal bones

At the lowest level, archaeologists uncovered a thin charcoal layer. The absence of reddening in the surrounding soil—only slight hardening—suggests that the fire burned briefly rather than continuously.

A cluster of large stones stacked at the narrowest part of the entrance indicates the tunnel may have been deliberately sealed, possibly after its final use.

Why Build a Tunnel in a Prehistoric Grave Site?

One of the most compelling questions raised by the discovery is why a medieval community chose to dig an underground tunnel inside a visible Neolithic burial monument.

Archaeologists propose two main explanations:

1. Landmark Function – The ancient ditch system may still have been recognizable above ground in the Middle Ages, making it an ideal reference point for a hidden refuge.

2. Avoidance of Pagan Sites – The site’s association with prehistoric burials may have caused it to be avoided by the general population, creating a perfectly undisturbed hiding place during uncertain times.

A Rare Window Into Layered History

The Reinstedt Erdstall demonstrates how landscapes can accumulate meaning and function over thousands of years. It is not only a rare example of medieval underground architecture but also a striking case of how later societies interacted with, reused, and reinterpreted prehistoric monuments.

As renewable energy development continues across Europe, such discoveries highlight the importance of archaeological surveys to preserve cultural heritage before construction begins.

Further analysis of the site is ongoing, with findings contributing valuable insights into medieval tunnel construction, long-term land use, and the cultural significance of prehistoric monuments in Central Europe.

A Rare Mosaic from the Villa of the Amazons Shows Nile Imagery in Late Roman Anatolia

Ancient Edessa Mosaic Reveals Nilotic Influence in Late Antique Art

Archaeologists studying the ancient city of Edessa have uncovered striking new insights into Late Antique art through a richly decorated mosaic in the so-called Villa of the Amazons at Haleplibahçe. Dating to the 5th–6th centuries AD, the mosaic—known as the Bird Hall Mosaic—offers a rare and symbolic depiction of Nilotic imagery, blending local artistic traditions with influences from Egypt and the Eastern Roman world.

The Villa of the Amazons, excavated by the Şanlıurfa Museum between 2006 and 2009, is one of southeastern Türkiye’s most remarkable archaeological sites. Its mosaics are now preserved and displayed at the Haleplibahçe Mosaic Museum, attracting scholars and visitors alike.

A Central Hall with Extraordinary Symbolism

At the heart of the villa lies Room 5, the largest and most prominent space, measuring approximately 10.8 by 16.5 meters. Believed to have served as the main reception hall, the room contains a floor mosaic whose surviving fragments reveal an exceptionally rich iconographic program.

Because of the numerous bird depictions in its decorative border, researchers have named it the “Bird Hall.” Despite its fragmentary condition, the mosaic provides valuable insights into artistic production, symbolism, and cultural exchange in Edessa during Late Antiquity.

Lotus Flowers and Wetland Birds: A Nilotic Landscape

The mosaic’s border features a continuous decorative band filled with stylized lotus plants and water birds, including ducks, cranes, storks, ibises, and coots. These species, all associated with wetland ecosystems, strongly suggest a symbolic reference to the Nile River and its fertile delta.

The lotus motifs are particularly significant. Depicted in various stages of growth—from buds to seed pods—the flowers likely represent the Indian lotus (Nelumbo nucifera), a plant closely tied to fertility, rebirth, and abundance in ancient Egyptian belief. While lotus imagery is common in Nilotic art, its appearance in a villa in Edessa highlights the far-reaching influence of Egyptian iconography across the Eastern Mediterranean.

Unlike naturalistic river scenes seen in earlier Hellenistic mosaics, the Bird Hall border lacks visible water depictions. Instead, symbolic elements—plants and animals—are arranged freely against a white background, reflecting the more abstract and emblematic style characteristic of Late Antique art.

A Mysterious Chariot Scene

One of the most intriguing elements of the Bird Hall Mosaic appears in the western section of the border: a small wheeled chariot carrying two reclining human figures, a man and a woman. The male figure is partially nude, while the female holds what appears to be fruit—a traditional symbol of abundance.

Although their heads are missing, scholars suggest that the scene may represent Neilos, the personification of the Nile River, accompanied by Euthenia, a lesser-known female figure symbolizing prosperity and plenty. Similar imagery appears in Nilotic mosaics from Syria and the Levant, including at Sarrin and Sepphoris, where river gods are often depicted reclining on chariots or animals during ceremonial processions.

If this interpretation is correct, the Bird Hall Mosaic offers a rare glimpse of Nilotic symbolism integrated into a private residential context in Anatolia, highlighting the villa owner’s awareness of far-reaching cultural motifs and the symbolic power of Egyptian-inspired imagery.

A Window into Late Antique Edessa

Although damaged, the Bird Hall Mosaic offers a vivid glimpse into the beliefs, aesthetics, and global influences of Late Antique society in southeastern Türkiye. By blending local traditions with Egyptian and Greco-Roman symbolism, the mosaic reflects Edessa’s role as a cultural crossroads between East and West.

As ongoing research continues to re-evaluate its imagery, the Bird Hall Mosaic stands as a powerful reminder that even fragmentary artworks can reshape our understanding of the ancient world.

Explainer: Why the President’s House slavery exhibit was removed, and what happens next

Federal Judge Considers Order to Restore Slavery Exhibit at President’s House

A federal judge is weighing a request from Mayor Cherelle Parker’s administration to compel the National Park Service (NPS) to restore a slavery exhibit at the President’s House site in Philadelphia.

Attorneys for the city and for President Donald Trump’s administration argued the case in federal court on Friday. An initial ruling is expected in the coming days. The dispute follows the abrupt removal of the exhibit’s display panels by NPS staff on January 22.

The exhibit examines the contradiction between slavery and freedom in early America, focusing on the nine enslaved people held by George Washington while he lived in the President’s House during his tenure as the nation’s first president.

Background of the Exhibit

Controversy surrounding the site dates back to 2002, when plans were underway to relocate the Liberty Bell to its current location at 6th and Chestnut streets. Historians noted that visitors would be standing above the remains of slave quarters from Washington’s residence. Portions of the house, located at 6th and Market streets, were later uncovered during an archaeological excavation.

The President’s House served as the executive mansion from 1790 to 1800, before the White House was completed. Both George Washington and John Adams lived there, though Adams did not own slaves.

Advocates, scholars, elected officials and community members pressured the NPS to revise plans for the Liberty Bell Center to acknowledge the enslaved individuals who lived and worked at the site. Among them were Oney Judge and Hercules, who both escaped to freedom from Washington’s Philadelphia household.

One of the leading advocacy groups was the Avenging the Ancestors Coalition, led by attorney Michael Coard, which has also organized recent efforts to preserve the exhibit.

Funding for the project included a $3.5 million commitment from Philadelphia’s city government, a matching $3.5 million grant from the Delaware River Port Authority, and additional federal funds secured by the city’s congressional delegation.

A 2006 agreement between the city and the NPS—amended several times—specified that Philadelphia would design and install the exhibit, while the NPS would manage and interpret it. The Parker administration argues that this agreement bars the NPS from making major changes without city approval.

Federal attorneys counter that the contract expired in 2010, the same year the exhibit opened to the public.

Changes Under the Second Trump Administration

The exhibit operated with little controversy until March 2025, when President Trump issued an executive order calling for the “restoration” of Independence Hall. The order directed federal agencies to remove content from national parks that “inappropriately disparage Americans past or living,” including figures from the colonial era.

Media reports later indicated that the slavery panels near the Liberty Bell had been flagged as problematic. Advocacy groups subsequently mobilized to prevent their removal.

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, named as a defendant in the city’s lawsuit, issued an implementation order in May outlining a timeline for compliance. That deadline passed in September without changes at the President’s House.

According to court filings, on January 22, Steven Sims, acting regional director of the NPS and superintendent of Independence National Historical Park, was instructed by acting NPS Director Jessica Bowron to remove the exhibit immediately.

Staff members used basic tools to dismantle the display panels and shut down video screens featuring narratives about the enslaved people who lived at the site.

The exhibit materials were transported to the nearby National Constitution Center, where they are being stored while the case proceeds, according to filings submitted by federal attorneys.

Free showcase to mark World Wetlands Day

Marine Mission Event Marks World Wetlands Day in Jersey

More than 30 conservationists, researchers, artists and environmental groups will gather at the Radisson Hotel today (2 February) for Marine Mission, a free public event marking World Wetlands Day in Jersey.

Now in its second year, Marine Mission highlights the importance of the island’s marine and coastal environment through exhibitions, talks and community engagement. Exhibitions will run from 6:30pm to 7:30pm, followed by a programme of talks from 7:30pm to 9:30pm.

The event will open with an address by Environment Minister Steve Luce, followed by a welcome and archaeology update delivered by Bob Tompkins on behalf of Andrew Mitchell, Chair of the Jersey Ramsar Advisory Group.

Speakers include Donna de Gruchy, who will discuss the work of British Divers Marine Life Rescue in Jersey, and Emily Wagdin from Ocean Culture Life, who will explore how storytelling can deepen people’s connection with the ocean. Underwater photographer Grace Bailey will present her latest work, while marine biologist Dr Paul Chambers will speak about dolphins and other marine visitors to Jersey’s waters.

Additional contributions will come from Kevin McIlwee, Chairman of Jersey Marine Conservation, Alex Purdie from Alderney Wildlife Trust, and Robert Swain, skipper of the Jersey Duchess, who will share findings from his research into mobile marine species in Portelet Bay. Sophie Alexander will also provide a progress report on marine conservation projects undertaken by Ports of Jersey.

The evening will conclude with an open Q&A session, giving members of the public the opportunity to engage directly with experts. Artists will display marine-inspired works, and a range of environmental organisations will be represented throughout the event.

Kevin McIlwee MSc, Chairman of Jersey Marine Conservation, said: “Jersey’s marine environment is one of our most valuable assets, yet many people remain unaware of the vital role our wetlands and coastal waters play. This event is about bringing the community together to learn, to engage, and to take action.”

Where history meets culture: Heritage sites become 'vibrant

Where history meets culture: Heritage sites become ‘vibrant destinations’

In an effort to boost cultural tourism, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a new initiative to transform 15 major archaeological sites into “vibrant, experiential cultural destinations”.

The selected heritage sites include Lothal, Dholavira, Rakhigarhi, Adichanallur, Sarnath, Hastinapur and Leh Palace, among others. These locations are set to undergo infrastructure upgrades aimed at preserving India’s historical legacy while making them more appealing and accessible to both domestic and international tourists.

The plan—unveiled in the Union Budget 2026–27—intends to enhance visitor engagement through curated walkways, interpretation centres, immersive storytelling experiences and on-site conservation labs, effectively bringing ancient civilisations and historical narratives to life for visitors.

This initiative is part of a broader strategy to position tourism as a key driver of economic growth, employment generation, and regional development, with heritage and culture placed at the heart of India’s tourism roadmap.

What Budget 2026 has in store for India’s tourism sector—Ladakh to Tamil Nadu

India has a prominent position in the global tourism landscape and ranked 39th on the World Economic Forum's Travel and Tourism Development Index 2024.

New Delhi: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday announced the development of new ecologically sustainable tourism initiatives as part of the Union Budget 2026–27, with a strong focus on eco-tourism, cultural heritage, and employment generation.

Under the proposal, new mountain trekking trails will be developed in Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, and the Araku Valley in the Eastern Ghats. The government also plans to introduce sea turtle trails near coastal nesting sites in Odisha, Karnataka, and Kerala, as well as birdwatching trails around Pulicat Lake in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.

In addition to nature-based tourism, Sitharaman announced plans to develop 15 archaeological and heritage sites as major cultural tourism destinations. These include prominent Indus Valley Civilisation sites such as Lothal, Rakhigarhi, and Dholavira, along with Sarnath Stupa and Hastinapur in Uttar Pradesh and Leh Palace in Ladakh. The sites will feature curated walkways, interpretation centres, and conservation laboratories to create “vibrant, experiential” visitor experiences.

“Budget 2026 reflects a strong recognition of tourism as a strategic pillar for economic growth, employment generation, and regional development,” said Mahesh Iyer, Managing Director and CEO of Thomas Cook India. He also welcomed the rationalisation of Tax Collected at Source (TCS), noting that the simplified flat 2 per cent rate on overseas tour packages would ease compliance and improve cash flows for travellers.

India currently ranks 39th on the World Economic Forum’s Travel and Tourism Development Index 2024. According to the Tourism Ministry’s India Tourism Data Compendium 2025, the country recorded over 20 million foreign tourist arrivals in 2024, earning approximately $35 billion in foreign exchange. Domestic tourism remained robust, with 2.95 billion visits recorded nationwide, led by Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.

The Budget also proposed developing Buddhist Circuits in the Northeast, preserving temples and monasteries while improving pilgrimage infrastructure. To support workforce development, the government plans to upgrade the National Council for Hotel Management and Catering Technology (NCHMCT) in Noida into a new National Institute of Hospitality, designed to bridge academia, industry, and government.

Further initiatives include a pilot programme to upskill 10,000 tourist guides across 20 sites through a 12-week hybrid training course in collaboration with an Indian Institute of Management, and the launch of a National Destination Digital Knowledge Grid to document sites of historical, cultural, and spiritual importance.

While welcoming the announcements, Iyer noted that increased international marketing could further strengthen India’s tourism push. “A higher outlay for promoting ‘Incredible India’ would have complemented infrastructure development with stronger global visibility,” he said.

The forgotten Alexandria: Rediscovering a lost metropolis on the Tigris

For centuries, one of antiquity’s most important cities slipped quietly out of human memory.

Founded by Alexander the Great during his eastern campaigns, Alexandria on the Tigris once stood at the heart of vast trade networks linking Mesopotamia, the Persian Gulf, and India. Yet sometime between the decline of cuneiform writing and the rise of Islam in the region, the city vanished—not only from the physical landscape, but also from the historical record. Only in the 21st century has archaeology begun to reconstruct its forgotten story.

Following the fall of the Achaemenid Persian Empire in the late 4th century BC, Alexander established the city as part of his broader vision to connect Mesopotamia with the wider maritime world. Returning from campaigns that stretched as far as the Indus Valley, he sought to create a strategic port that would anchor long-distance trade.

Southern Mesopotamia, however, was already undergoing profound environmental change. Sedimentation carried by the Tigris and Euphrates rivers was steadily pushing the Persian Gulf coastline farther south, threatening access to the sea. To maintain a viable maritime outlet, Alexander founded a port city near the confluence of the Tigris and the Karun rivers—Charax Spasinou.

Ancient Roman authors described Charax as a prosperous commercial hub, yet its precise location remained a subject of scholarly debate for decades. A breakthrough came in the 1960s, when British researcher John Hansman identified massive ramparts visible in Royal Air Force aerial photographs.

The site—now known as Jebel Khayyaber—proved difficult to investigate further. As Stefan Hauser of the University of Konstanz explains, the city’s period of prominence fell within a historical era long overlooked by archaeologists. Compounding this challenge, the site lies just 15 kilometers from the Iranian border, an area that became a major battleground during the Iran–Iraq War of the 1980s. During the conflict, a military camp was established directly atop the ancient ruins, further complicating efforts to study and preserve the remains.

That changed in 2014, when international research teams were finally able to return to southern Iraq. During an initial visit to the site with local officials, researchers were struck by the sheer scale of the remains: a city wall stretching for more than a kilometre and rising up to eight metres high.

Subsequent studies revealed that the seemingly flat landscape concealed the lost city of Alexandria on the Tigris. In 2016, Stefan Hauser joined the project, contributing specialized expertise in the Hellenistic Near East. Early investigations were necessarily cautious, relying on surface surveys, remote sensing, and non-invasive methods due to ongoing security concerns.

Thousands of drone images, combined with systematic fieldwalking, uncovered dense scatters of pottery, bricks, and industrial debris spread across more than 500 square kilometres. Magnetometer-based geophysical surveys then mapped the buried urban fabric, revealing a vast and carefully planned metropolis. The data exposed broad streets, monumental city blocks, temples, workshops, canals, and palace-like complexes—some of the largest urban blocks known from antiquity.

Variations in grid orientation point to multiple construction phases and clearly defined urban zones dedicated to housing, religion, industry, and agriculture. Satellite imagery also revealed extensive ancient irrigation systems extending north of the city, supplying water to expansive grain fields and supporting a large population.

Between approximately 300 BC and 300 AD, Alexandria on the Tigris likely functioned as a central hub of long-distance trade. Goods from India, Afghanistan, and possibly even China passed through the port, feeding major markets in cities such as Seleucia and Ctesiphon farther north. Yet the city’s prosperity depended entirely on its access to river and sea routes.

“We now realise that we truly have the equivalent of Alexandria on the Nile, the famous city in Egypt,” said Professor Hauser. “The situation is essentially the same: a city founded at the junction of open sea and inland river systems. Alexandria on the Tigris must have fulfilled its role as one of the central hubs of ancient long-distance trade for more than 550 years.”

Its decline came when nature intervened once again. As the Tigris shifted westward and the Persian Gulf coastline retreated, Alexandria lost its strategic position. By the 3rd century AD, it lay far from both river and sea and was largely abandoned.

Today, the rediscovery of Alexandria on the Tigris is reshaping our understanding of ancient globalization, urban planning, and environmental change. With further excavations planned, archaeologists hope to uncover more secrets of a city that once connected continents—before vanishing into the sands of history.