Illinois is home to the largest ancient city you've probably never heard of

A fascinating, old anthropological site is located only across a river from St. Louis, Missouri, yet few Americans are aware of it. Even today, researchers debate the reasons that Cahokia, a vast settlement that may have housed 20,000 people by the year 1050 A.D., may have perished. The largest of the towering, hand-built clay mounds, which still stand at the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, once made up the metropolis, which is located in the lush floodplain of the Mississippi River Valley that is now western Illinois. Even while there are still many unanswered questions about this ancient society, including why it vanished, the existence of the city's ruins has allowed experts to create a picture of its heyday.

The people of Cahokia built their mounds by hand, but for reason?

This site contains ancient teeth that may have belonged to a variety of Indigenous people. According to the different levels of strontium in the tooth fragments, around a third of the population arrived in Cahokia from other places in middle America. The architecture in Cahokia is also interesting since it suggests that this city had some degree of urban planning and wasn't merely a collection of villages. The kings lived atop mounds, overlooking the homes of the other occupants. In this enormous city, farming, hunting, logging, pottery making, and weaving were all done.

The city's core was located in the middle of Cahokia, encircling the largest mound, which stood about 100 feet tall and was surrounded by a substantial timber wall. The region was home to a plaza with four corners designating the cardinal directions, which archaeologists think was influenced by the founders' conception of the cosmos at the time. According to researchers, religious activities and festivities were held in this town center and in the structures atop the main mound. It's also conceivable that individuals came to Cahokia from elsewhere especially to attend these events.

A few explanations have been put up regarding the reason Cahokia fell, however the supporting data is contradictory. For a long, it was thought that because the locals relied on wood for their structures, the area had been overly deforested and was therefore less fruitful. However, soil tests reveal that the area would have continued to be productive soon after Cahokia's destruction. Disease was an improbable catastrophe as well because colonists did not arrive in this area until a very long time later. Some academics think that fighting with nearby tribes may have contributed to Cahokia's demise.

The mounds are currently part of a city park and a state historic site, but they are also being considered for national park status. At Cahokia, there are more than 65 preserved mounds, including the tallest mound that is still standing, whose steps visitors can climb. It's one of the few locations in the US where people are free to stroll through a city that dates back thousands of years.

3,000 years ago, people in ancient Europe used hallucinogens.

According to a recent article published in the journal Scientific Reports, hair strands from the Bronze Age of Europe provided the first concrete evidence of drug use stretching back 3,000 years.

The hair strands were found inside decorative tubes.

The hair contains psychoactive alkaloids, which can cause altered states of consciousness and are naturally present in some plants. Archaeologists speculate that prehistoric people may have consumed them during ceremonial rituals.

The hair was found in a cave on the Spanish island of Menorca, which is located in the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of mainland Spain. According to the experts, humans originally lived in the cave known as Es Càrritx some 3,600 years ago.

In 1995, spelunkers discovered Es Càrritx. When archaeologists began excavating the site, they found the bones of about 210 people as well as sealed, ornamental vessels filled with red-dyed hair strands.

Inside the Es Càrritx cave

The hairs were thoroughly examined by scientists using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography and high-resolution mass spectroscopy. Two alkaloid chemicals that can lead to hallucinations, delirium, and altered sensory perceptions were discovered: atropine and scopolamine. Ephedrine, a stimulant that can heighten alertness and excitement, was also found by them.

Some plants, such as mandrake, henbane, horn apple, and joint pine, were probably eaten by our Bronze Age ancestors to get those components. Scientists came to the conclusion that these people had been taking the medications for at least a year.

An artist's interpretation of the hair-dyeing ritual inside the cave

The research speculates that shamans may have utilized the chemicals while conducting religious rituals, but it is unclear why these populations were taking them. The pots that held the hair were painted with concentric circles, which the experts suggest could have symbolized the “inner vision” received by swallowing the plants.

As independent ethnobotanist Giorgio Samorini tells Andrew Jacobs of the New York Times, "This was not a profane purpose of'searching for a high,' but rather the search for existential meaning that has been largely lost to time."

Some of the hair strands found inside the cave

Drugs that change consciousness are "usually invisible in the archaeological record," according to the researchers, but their usage "used to be inferred from indirect evidence," such residue on pottery. However, the hairs offer the first concrete evidence of drug use among Europeans.

There aren't many hairs left from this time and place. We are very, very lucky, says study co-author Elisa Guerra Doce, a prehistorian at the University of Valladolid, to Tom Metcalfe of National Geographic.

Greeks and Egyptians demand an end to the falsification of Queen Cleopatra's history: Almost 60k Sign the Petition to Stop Netflix's new Documentary

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By Dimosthenis Vasiloudis

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Following the release of the trailer for Netflix's new series "Queen Cleopatra," produced by Jada Pinkett Smith, wife of Will Smith, a petition to cancel the show has gained significant traction online. Over 60,000 people have already signed the petition, which calls for the cancellation of the show due to concerns surrounding historical inaccuracies and cultural appropriation.

Critics argue that the series, which chronicles the life of the last pharaoh of ancient Egypt, Cleopatra VII, is riddled with historical inaccuracies that perpetuate misconceptions about the real origin of the Queen. The contentious series has spurred heated discussions on social media about historical revisionism, racism, supremacism, and ethnicity. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the casting of the main character, with some arguing that the actress chosen to play Cleopatra is not representative of the historical figure's ethnicity.

Maha Shehata and Aikk Yasser organized the petition to halt the upcoming documentary because it was "falsifying history." The creators of the petition claim that Egyptians who believed that Egyptian history was being misrepresented were responsible for its creation.

A group's desire to claim Egypt's history and deprive the true Egyptians of it is being pushed via the pseudoscience known as “afrocentrism.” They are still trying to fabricate history using fraudulent articles and no supporting proof, according to the petition's opening statement.

Casualty star Adele James will star as Cleopatra, while EastEnders' John Partridge will play Julius Caesar, The Last Kingdom's Craig Russell will play Marc Antony and former EastEnders' actor Michael Greco will star as Pothinus.

Netflix has yet to issue an official response to the petition and the show is still set to premiere in the upcoming weeks. The controversy surrounding the show highlights the ongoing debate around the importance of historical accuracy and cultural representation in film and television productions. It remains to be seen whether Netflix will address these concerns or if the backlash will have any impact on the show's release.

Controversy and Representation: The Debate Over Queen Cleopatra's Portrayal

The debate surrounding the portrayal of Queen Cleopatra in Netflix's new series has sparked significant discussion on social media platforms. Central to the debate is the question of whether Cleopatra should be portrayed as a black queen or if another representation is more historically accurate.

Cleopatra VII, the last pharaoh of ancient Egypt, was a member of the Ptolemaic dynasty, which descended from Ptolemy I, a Macedonian Greek general who served under Alexander the Great. As a result, some argue that Cleopatra's ancestry was primarily Greek, and thus, she should not be portrayed as a black queen.

Others, however, assert that presenting Cleopatra as a black queen could contribute to a more inclusive and diverse representation of historical figures in film and television.

The debate on social media has led to a wide range of opinions, with some users advocating for more historically accurate portrayals and others stressing the importance of diverse representation in media. As with any historical figure, it can be challenging to determine the exact appearance of Cleopatra, which leaves room for interpretation and artistic license. The conversation surrounding the representation of Queen Cleopatra highlights the complexities of portraying historical figures in modern media and raises questions about the responsibilities of filmmakers and producers when depicting history.

“African Roots of Ancient Egypt”: Exploring the Afrocentric Perspective on Egypt's History

Afrocentrism is a cultural and historical perspective that emphasizes the importance of African history and the contributions of African people to global civilization. When applied to the study of ancient Egypt, the afrocentric view focuses on the idea that ancient Egyptian civilization was fundamentally African in nature, with its people, culture, and achievements rooted in the African continent.

Proponents of the afrocentric view argue that the ancient Egyptians were indigenous to Africa and that their culture and society shared many similarities with other African cultures. They highlight the geographical location of Egypt on the African continent and the evidence of cultural connections with neighboring African civilizations.

Representations of Cleopatra both in Hellenistic and Roman art.

Afrocentrists often challenge the traditional Eurocentric perspective, which has historically emphasized the connections between ancient Egypt and Mediterranean or Near Eastern civilizations, sometimes to the point of downplaying or even denying its African roots. They assert that such Eurocentric interpretations can be biased and contribute to the marginalization of African history and achievements.

Key points of the afrocentric view of ancient Egypt's history include:

1. Racial and ethnic identity: Afrocentrists argue that ancient Egyptians were primarily black or African in origin, rather than belonging to a more Mediterranean or Middle Eastern racial group. They base this argument on various sources, such as physical anthropology, artistic representations, and historical records.

2. Cultural connections: Afrocentrists emphasize the shared cultural practices and beliefs between ancient Egypt and other African civilizations. They point to elements such as religious beliefs, social structure, and artistic styles as evidence of these connections.

3. Contributions to global civilization: The Afrocentric view highlights the significant achievements and advancements of ancient Egyptian civilization, asserting that these contributions have often been downplayed or overlooked due to Eurocentric biases.

4. Reclaiming African history: Afrocentrism seeks to challenge and rewrite the often Eurocentric narratives of history, giving due credit and recognition to the role of African civilizations, including ancient Egypt, in shaping world history.

were there ever black pharaohs?: Exploring the 25th Dynasty of The Nubian Pharaohs and its African Roots

Ancient Egypt was in many cases, a complex, diverse society with many different dynasties throughout its history. While it's relatively easy to determine the precise racial or ethnic backgrounds of most of Egypt’s ancient rulers, some dynasties were more closely connected to the African continent, and their pharaohs may have been of African descent.

One of the most notable examples is the 25th Dynasty, also known as the Nubian or Kushite Dynasty, which ruled Egypt from around 747 to 656 BCE. This dynasty originated from the Kingdom of Kush, located in present-day Sudan, south of Egypt. The Kushite pharaohs were of African descent and shared cultural ties with other African civilizations.

Some of the most famous pharaohs of the 25th Dynasty include:

Head of Taharka

1. Piye (Piankhi): The first Kushite pharaoh who conquered Egypt and founded the 25th Dynasty. Piye ruled both Egypt and Kush, establishing a significant empire that spanned from the Nile Delta to present-day Sudan.

2. Shabaka: Piye's successor and the second pharaoh of the 25th Dynasty, Shabaka further expanded the empire and left a lasting impact on Egyptian art, culture, and religion.

3. Taharqa: One of the most famous Kushite pharaohs, Taharqa ruled during the height of the 25th Dynasty's power. He was involved in several military campaigns and played a significant role in the geopolitics of the ancient Near East.

4. Tantamani: The last pharaoh of the 25th Dynasty, Tantamani tried to regain control over Egypt after Assyrian invasions but was ultimately defeated.

It is important to remember that ancient Egypt was a melting pot of various cultures and ethnicities. The pharaohs of different dynasties, including those of the 25th Dynasty, were part of this complex and diverse society. While some pharaohs may have had African ancestry, they also shared connections with other civilizations and cultures throughout Egypt's long history.

Understanding and Challenging Supremacist Ideologies: Beyond Black African and white Supremacy

Black African supremacy, much like white supremacy, refers to the belief that people of African descent are superior to other racial and ethnic groups. It is important to note that this belief is not representative of the majority of people of African descent, but rather a fringe ideology held by a small number of individuals.

The concept of black African supremacy may be rooted in reactions to historical injustices and racial discrimination, including slavery, colonialism, and ongoing social inequalities. Some proponents of black African supremacy may use this belief system as a way to counterbalance the effects of white supremacy and Eurocentric historical narratives, which have often marginalized African history and achievements.

It is crucial to distinguish between black African supremacy and other movements, such as Pan-Africanism, which seek to celebrate African heritage, promote unity among people of African descent, and challenge Eurocentric historical perspectives. These movements generally do not promote the superiority of one racial or ethnic group over others but instead focus on empowerment, cultural pride, and historical accuracy.

In the pursuit of racial equality and justice, it is essential to recognize and challenge supremacist beliefs, whether they promote the superiority of one racial or ethnic group over another. Efforts should be made to promote understanding, tolerance, and respect among people of diverse backgrounds and to foster a more inclusive and equitable society.

The Multifaceted Legacy of Darius the Great in Persian, Greek, and Egyptian Art

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By Dimosthenis Vasiloudis

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Darius the Great, who reigned from 522 BCE to 486 BCE, was one of the most influential and powerful monarchs of the Achaemenid Empire. His accomplishments as a ruler are evident through his administration, military conquests, and construction projects. As a result, Darius the Great has been immortalized in Persian, Greek, and Egyptian art, each of which offers unique perspectives on his legacy. This article explores how Darius was depicted in the art of these three cultures, shedding light on his multifaceted impact on the ancient world.

I. Persian Art

In Persian art, Darius the Great is often depicted as a wise and benevolent ruler. One of the most famous examples of his portrayal in Persian art can be found at Persepolis, the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire. The Apadana Palace's eastern staircase features a relief depicting Darius the Great seated on a throne, with his son and heir, Xerxes, standing behind him. This relief communicates the continuation of the Achaemenid dynasty and emphasizes the king's royal authority.

Another example can be found at Behistun, where Darius commissioned a monumental inscription carved into the rock face of a cliff. This inscription, known as the Behistun Inscription, recounts Darius's rise to power and his numerous military victories. Accompanying the text are detailed reliefs that showcase Darius as a divine ruler, chosen by the god Ahura Mazda to lead the empire.

II. Greek Art

In contrast to the positive portrayal of Darius in Persian art, Greek art often depicted him as a symbol of tyranny and barbarism. The Greco-Persian Wars, which took place during Darius's reign, played a significant role in shaping the Greek perception of the Persian king. Greek artists sought to emphasize their own cultural superiority by contrasting their democratic values with the perceived despotism of the Persian Empire.

A famous example of this depiction can be seen in the vase painting known as the "Darius Painter Vase," dating from the early 4th century BCE. The painting portrays Darius and his queen in an unfavorable light, surrounded by grotesque and hostile attendants. This portrayal served to reinforce the Greek belief in their own civilization's superiority over the Persians.

III. Egyptian Art

Darius the Great was also commemorated in Egyptian art, as he conquered Egypt in 518 BCE and sought to integrate the region into his empire. He was careful to portray himself as a legitimate pharaoh, adopting traditional Egyptian art styles and motifs in his portrayals.

One example of this can be found at the Temple of Hibis in the Kharga Oasis, where Darius is depicted in the traditional pose of smiting his enemies. In this relief, Darius wears a double crown, symbolizing his rule over both Upper and Lower Egypt. Another example can be found in the Susa Foundation Tablets, which depict Darius wearing the traditional Egyptian White Crown and the Red Crown. These portrayals in Egyptian art emphasize Darius's role as a pharaoh who respected and sought to integrate with the local culture.

The art of the Persian, Greek, and Egyptian cultures offers a multifaceted understanding of the legacy of Darius the Great. While Persian art highlights his wisdom and divine authority, Greek art presents him as a symbol of tyranny. Egyptian art, on the other hand, showcases his ability to adapt and integrate into different cultures. Through these various artistic depictions, the complex and enduring impact of Darius the Great on the ancient world can be fully appreciated.

Drawing Parallels: Assassin's Creed Origins and the Unfinished Northern Pyramid of Zawyet El Aryan

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By Dimosthenis Vasiloudis

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Assassin's Creed Origins, an action-adventure video game developed and published by Ubisoft, has captivated the hearts and minds of millions worldwide since its release in 2017. Set in the captivating world of ancient Egypt, the game offers a mesmerizing blend of history, mythology, and fiction, all skillfully intertwined to deliver an unforgettable gaming experience. One of the most striking aspects of the game is its realistic representation of the foundations of an unfinished Egyptian pyramid, providing players with a unique opportunity to explore the intricacies of this awe-inspiring architectural marvel.

A Step Back in Time

The developers of Assassin's Creed Origins undertook meticulous research and collaborated with historians and Egyptologists to create a historically accurate and visually captivating rendition of ancient Egypt. The game transports players to the Ptolemaic period, a time when Greek and Egyptian cultures intermingled, resulting in a rich tapestry of architectural, artistic, and scientific achievements.

While Assassin's Creed Origins is known for its realistic representation of ancient Egypt, the connection between the game's depiction of an unfinished pyramid and the real-life Unfinished Northern Pyramid of Zawyet El Aryan is worth exploring. By analyzing the similarities and differences between these two representations, we can better understand the level of historical accuracy achieved by the game developers and appreciate their commitment to immersing players in a world that echoes the past.

The Unfinished Northern Pyramid of Zawyet El Aryan: A Portal into Ancient Construction Techniques

One of the most remarkable in-game accomplishments is the representation of an unfinished Egyptian pyramid. This structure not only adds to the immersive experience but also offers players a rare glimpse into the construction techniques and processes employed by ancient Egyptians. By meticulously designing the unfinished pyramid, the game developers provide an invaluable educational tool for players who are curious about the history and engineering marvels of ancient Egypt.

The game features this kind of uncompleted pyramid specifically in "Desheret Desert". This place on the game’s map is located in the southernmost region of Egypt. Beneath the desert floor rests an unfinished construct, built within a vast artificial canyon.

The Unfinished Northern Pyramid, also known as the Pyramid of Baka, is located in Zawyet El Aryan, approximately 8 km south of Giza. Believed to have been constructed during the 4th Dynasty, this ancient structure remains incomplete, providing archaeologists and historians with invaluable insight into the construction techniques and processes of the time. The pyramid's most notable feature is its subterranean chambers, which were carved directly into the bedrock.

The Unfinished Pyramid: A Closer Look

The unfinished pyramid in Assassin's Creed Origins showcases the step-like structure of the monument during its construction phase. This representation offers insight into the building methods used by ancient Egyptians, which relied heavily on ramps, levers, and pulleys to transport massive stone blocks. The game also highlights the labor-intensive nature of these projects, which required thousands of workers to dedicate decades of their lives to the completion of these impressive structures.

While the unfinished pyramid in Assassin's Creed Origins is not an exact replica of the Unfinished Northern Pyramid of Zawyet El Aryan, there are several similarities that suggest the game developers drew inspiration from this real-life structure. Both the game's representation and the actual pyramid exhibit the characteristic step-like appearance, with exposed layers of stone blocks representing the core of the monument.

The game's depiction of the unfinished pyramid also highlights the use of ramps and levers in construction, which is consistent with the archaeological findings at Zawyet El Aryan. Furthermore, both the game and the real-life site showcase the massive scale and logistical challenges faced by ancient Egyptian builders, emphasizing the labor-intensive nature of pyramid construction.

The game's portrayal of the unfinished pyramid also reveals the intricate planning and organization involved in building such a colossal monument. It showcases the architectural layout, which was carefully designed to align with celestial bodies and incorporate various religious and symbolic elements. The detailed depiction of the pyramid's construction site also provides players with an understanding of the logistical challenges faced by the builders, including the sourcing of materials, storage, and transportation.

Differences and Creative Liberties

While Assassin's Creed Origins does an impressive job of replicating many aspects of ancient Egyptian architecture, it is important to remember that the game is a work of fiction, and the developers have taken some creative liberties. For instance, the game's unfinished pyramid may not be an exact geographical or chronological match to the Unfinished Northern Pyramid of Zawyet El Aryan. Additionally, the game's portrayal of the pyramid's purpose and the events surrounding its construction may be more closely tied to the game's narrative than to historical records.

Recreating the Past through Cutting-Edge Graphics

The realistic representation of the unfinished pyramid in Assassin's Creed Origins was made possible through the combination of extensive research, expert consultation, and cutting-edge technology. The game employs advanced graphics and rendering techniques to deliver a visually stunning and immersive experience. By leveraging the power of modern gaming platforms, Assassin's Creed Origins has been able to accurately recreate the magnificence and grandeur of ancient Egypt, providing players with an unforgettable journey through history.

The inclusion of the unfinished Egyptian pyramid in Assassin's Creed Origins is a testament to the game's commitment to historical accuracy and its dedication to providing players with a rich, immersive, and educational experience. By offering a glimpse into the construction techniques and challenges faced by ancient Egyptians, the game enables players to appreciate the impressive architectural feats of this ancient civilization. The developers' painstaking efforts to recreate the past have resulted in a gaming experience that not only entertains but also educates and inspires curiosity about the fascinating world of ancient Egypt.

The unfinished pyramid in Assassin's Creed Origins, while not an exact replica of the Unfinished Northern Pyramid of Zawyet El Aryan, shares several key similarities that demonstrate the game developers' commitment to historical accuracy. By drawing inspiration from real-life archaeological sites, the game provides players with a captivating and educational experience, offering a unique opportunity to explore and appreciate the architectural marvels of ancient Egypt. However, it is essential to acknowledge the creative liberties taken by the developers and remember that the game is, ultimately, a work of fiction that seeks to entertain and engage its audience.

History's Greatest Mysteries | What does the Voynich manuscript tell

In the following video we will be exploring what the Voynich manuscript, an illustrated codex hand-written in an unknown script, really says. Watch the video to find out more!

Discoveries That Can't Be Explained

From mysterious crocodile heads to aliens in Bermuda, in the following video we will be exploring discoveries that can’t really be explained. Watch the video to find out more!

The Legend of the Lost City of Caesars - The Mystery Land of Patagonia

Legend has it that the City of Caesars, otherwise known as the Wandering City, once existed in Patagonia, nestled between contemporary Chile and Argentina. Despite rumors and reports having circulated for about 200 years, and expeditions sent to try to track it down, no concrete evidence of its existence was ever uncovered.

Stories surrounding the mythical City of Caesars echo tales of other fabled lost cities which have enthralled and enchanted generations of dreamers and explorers, especially during the era of European colonization. Much like Plato’s famously fabled Atlantis, tantalizing tall tales of long-forgotten cities brimming with treasure have captured the imagination of fortune-seeking adventurers, inspiring many to embark on perilous journeys into the vast expanse of South America.

Even today, legends of El Dorado, the lost city of gold in Colombia, continue to inspire treasure hunters looking for the gold of the mythical king of the Muisca people.

Tools for bleeding cows uncovered in 7,000-year-old cemetery in Sudan

During excavations in the Letti basin in northern Sudan, archaeologists have unearthed 7,000-year-old bone tools used to bleed cows. Explorers believe this may be the earliest evidence of such a practice.

7,000-year-old burials were discovered during the excavation of a cemetery in the Letti Basin, including the remains of an elderly man and animal skin fragments that had been dyed red by the mineral ochre. The burials belonged to some of the region’s first cattle breeders.

Along with five bone blades probably made from cattle bones, the burial pit also contained a small bowl with ochre traces. The bone blades had a funnel-like or gutter-like shape and were still razor-sharp, as revealed by a closer inspection.

The tools immediately drew the attention of researchers, Piotr Osypiński, one of the excavations’ lead archaeologists, told Science in Poland.

The 3.800-Year-old Mummy Miss Lolan, whose beauty remains intact

Miss Lolan, who lived 3800 years ago, is located in a huge desert in northern Tibet. What makes this mummy, which is immediately noticed among the 200 mummies found, special is that it has received very little damage compared to many other mummies and its deformation is almost zero. Imagine a mummy with even hair and eyelashes in place.

Research to date has found many mummies, and nearly every one of them was in the same condition.

After all, we are talking about mummies that are thousands of years old and it is not right to expect such a visual appearance.

Even so, this mummy, found in the middle of a desert in northern Tibet, was unlike any mummy found before.

A total of 200 mummies were found by Chinese archaeologists from a tomb in the Tarim Basin.

Chinese archaeologists have discovered the fossil of a 170-million-year-old plant

Chinese researchers have found a fossil of an ancient plant dating back to 170 million years ago.

The Nanjing Institute of Geology and Palaeontology and the Chinese Academy of Sciences recently announced they had discovered the earliest known angiosperm through fossil reexamination in Northwest China.

10 Most Incredible Recent Archaeological Discoveries

In this video, we'll talk about the 10 most incredible archaeological finds that archaeologists have just discovered.

Archaeologists have deciphered a partially preserved inscription found on the neck of a large jar dating to the reign of King Solomon.

Twelve severed hands have been found in Egypt as part of a gruesome "reward-taking" practice uncovered by groundbreaking work.

A piece of cloth discovered in a bog in the Scottish Highlands may be the oldest traditional plaid fabric ever discovered, according to new research.

More than two hundred and forty-nine hectares of land for sale on Facebook Marketplace has sparked controversy in Yucatan and across Mexico.

It is absolutely shocking to find a coffin made of crystal with the body of a girl protruding from under the floor of a garage in San Francisco.

Let's take a look at the details of the 10 most incredible archaeological finds that archaeologists have discovered.

Top 10 Biggest Cattle Breeds In The World - Biggest Cows & Bulls

They say size matters but does it? Well, there are different ideas on this so let’s not discuss all of that and restrict ourselves to cattle. Now why do people domesticate cattle? While there can be many reasons for this, the two major are milk and meat production. Keeping this in mind, you’d obviously prefer the larger breed because hello, more meat!

Now before you run to get the biggest of them all, remember that they have their own limitations and each one is suitable to different climates and needs. So are you ready to scrutinize the biggest cattle breeds?

Joe Rogan Reacts to Needle of Cleopatra of Ancient Egypt

Did you ever know about Cleopatra’s Needle at Central Park? You can unintentionally catch a peek of the lasting legacy of one of the most intriguing civilizations in the world as you stroll through the winding paths and rich vegetation of one of the most famous locations in the center of New York City.

5 Ancient Civilizations that Mysteriously Vanished

In the late Bronze Age, the Mediterranean world was rocked by a series of raids from a mysterious group known as the Sea Peoples. These seafaring warriors appeared seemingly out of nowhere, launching devastating attacks on coastal towns and trade routes throughout the region.

Their identity and motivations remain shrouded in mystery. Still, they played a significant role in the Bronze Age collapse that brought down some of the greatest empires of the time, including the Hittite, Mycenaean, and Mitanni kingdoms.

Few contemporary sources of information concern the Sea People, and those that exist are not easily interpreted.

Ancient tablets, found primarily in Egypt, allude to various naval battles but make few specific mentions of the Sea People, even though they are believed to have clashed with three great Pharaohs, including Ramesses II, also known as Ramesses the Great.

One translated inscription from the era of Ramesses II warns: “They came from the sea in their warships, and none could stand against them.”

Even more mysterious than the lack of evidence for the Sea People is that they have suddenly vanished, just like the civilizations they may have conquered.

After 1178 BC, no more inscriptions or records of the Sea People were made. Still, several theories have sought to explain their origins and sudden disappearance.

Some of these theories have suggested that the Sea People may have been displaced Trojans or a collection of numerous tribes of naval raiders from Central Europe. It remains unknown whether they ultimately assimilated into land-dwelling societies, were eliminated by a rival civilization, or, as the records seem to suggest, vanished from the face of the Earth...

First Contact: the Viking vs. Native American Battles

Inside the Viking clash with Native Americans around 1000 AD. Leif Erikson reaches North America, and the Vikings who follow his expedition soon encounter locals, whom they later call “Skraeling.” In the land they know as Vinland, these Scandinavians meet the ancestors of the Dorset or Beothuk people. We sift through some of the myths surrounding these stories, examine the ruins at L’Anse Aux Meadows, and present the newest research on this history.

The Nazca Lines: Mysteries of the Giant Geoglyphs

There's loads of rumours out there about the Nazca Lines, but what is the truth? We will investigate that in the video below. Enjoy!

The Most Incredible Prehistoric Creatures

In the following video we will analyze the most incredible prehistoric creatures that ever existed. Watch the video to find out more!

The Euphrates River's Drying: Unearthing Ancient Secrets

The Euphrates River, once a lifeline to countless civilizations throughout history, has been progressively drying up in recent years. This alarming development has not only threatened the livelihoods of millions but also unveiled archaeological treasures long buried beneath the riverbed. In this article, we explore the factors that have contributed to the Euphrates River's diminishing water flow and delve into the remarkable archaeological finds that have emerged as a result.

Causes of the Euphrates River's Drying

1. Climate change: One of the primary reasons for the dwindling water levels in the Euphrates River is climate change. Rising temperatures have resulted in a substantial reduction in snow and ice cover in the region's mountains, which feed the river. Additionally, more frequent and severe droughts have led to diminished precipitation and increased evaporation rates, causing the river to shrink dramatically.

2. Dam construction: The construction of dams along the Euphrates and its tributaries has had a significant impact on the river's water flow. Countries like Turkey, Syria, and Iraq have built dams for hydroelectric power, irrigation, and flood control. While these dams have provided numerous benefits, they have also disrupted the natural flow of the river, causing water levels to drop and negatively affecting downstream communities.

3. Unsustainable water usage: The region's growing population has placed immense pressure on the Euphrates River. Agriculture, industry, and domestic use have all contributed to excessive water withdrawals, which have outpaced the river's natural replenishment rate. This unsustainable water usage has further compounded the river's decline, putting additional stress on already strained ecosystems and communities.

Archaeological Finds Revealed by the Euphrates' Decline

The receding waters of the Euphrates River have exposed numerous archaeological sites, offering an unprecedented opportunity for researchers to study the region's rich history. Some of the most significant finds include:

1. Ancient Mesopotamian cities: The drying river has revealed the remnants of ancient Mesopotamian cities such as Ur and Uruk. These cities, once thriving centers of civilization, have provided archaeologists with valuable insights into the region's history, including its trade networks, architectural styles, and social organization.

2. Cuneiform tablets: A treasure trove of cuneiform tablets has been unearthed as the Euphrates' waters have retreated. These ancient clay tablets, inscribed with the world's earliest known writing system, have offered scholars a wealth of information about the region's political, economic, and cultural history.

3. Lost temples and palaces: As the river's waters have receded, archaeologists have discovered previously unknown temples and palaces. These structures have provided new insights into the religious and political life of the ancient civilizations that once thrived along the Euphrates River.

The drying of the Euphrates River is a complex and multifaceted issue, with climate change, dam construction, and unsustainable water usage all playing a role. While this ecological crisis has led to the discovery of remarkable archaeological finds, it has also underscored the urgent need for collaborative and sustainable water management strategies among the countries that share the Euphrates River. If we are to safeguard this vital resource for future generations, it is essential that we address the causes of its decline and work together to find long-lasting solutions.

Kentrosaurus | The Giant Jurassic 'Porcupine'

You have probably heard of the iconic Stegosaurus, thanks to its giant spiked-tail, but you may not have heard of its equally amazing relative, the Kentrosaurus. This was a Stegosaur that hailed from Tanzania, that not only had a spiked-tail, but also back and even shoulder spikes. This level of defense made it one powerful tank of an animal, and it needed to be as it lived in an environment filled with various theropods both large and small!