Cameras Combing The Bottom Of Lake Superior Made A Discovery That Left Experts In Awe

Researchers from the Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society have discovered the wreckage of the Atlanta, a steamship that sunk in 1906 in Lake Superior. The team was using a remote operated vehicle to survey the depths of the lake when they discovered the wreck at a depth of approximately 650 feet.

The Atlanta was carrying a cargo of corn from Superior, Wisconsin to Cleveland, Ohio when it sank. All 24 crew members died. The wreck appears to be well-preserved thanks to the cold waters and lack of invasive species in Lake Superior. The discovery sheds light on a tragic event from the region’s past and adds to the growing collection of shipwrecks being documented and preserved by the Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society.

Cyclopean Spain | Who Built the Megalithic City of Tarragona?

The megalithic city of Tarragona, just south of Barcelona in Spain, was the site of a much earlier megalithic culture that built remarkable cyclopian walls before the Romans arrived. The megalithic platforms, believed to have been built by the Iberians, were more likely constructed by an earlier Bronze Age or Neolithic megalithic civilization of the Mediterranean.

The site features impressive cyclopian megalithic blocks that are 15 feet wide, megalithic foundations on the outer walls of the ancient town, and megalithic doorways with giant lentils going into the city. The giant blocks are similar to those found in Latium, Italy, and remind the author of the same style. The walls are probably 40 feet wide and 30 feet wide, and the carvings here could be later Roman carvings utilizing the old blocks. The site also features a section that looks like polygonal stonework and is much later Roman, possibly repurposed. The megalithic city of Tarragona is a serious cyclopian structure that is similar to the Bronze Age or Neolithic sites in Italy and Greece.

The Mystery of Lion's Rock: An Ancient Fortress in the Sky

Sigiriya, also known as the Sky City, is a colossal monolith rising from the emerald foliage of Sri Lanka and adorned with ancient ruins dating back to the 5th century AD. The monument's architecture is so impressive that it has sparked rumors, myths, and numerous theories about its construction, with some even speculating on the involvement of mystical powers. The fortress is adorned with exquisite frescoes that provide insights into bygone eras, while its mysterious mirror wall once polished to a gleam holds centuries-old verses written by its visitors.

Despite its grandeur, the methods behind its creation remain shrouded in mystery. According to legend, a great king constructed this Palace in the sky after a power struggle and patricide, seeking a fortress impenetrable to his avenging brother. The site is home to water gardens, stone staircases, and advanced hydraulic systems that point to a society well ahead of its time. However, the city was abandoned soon after the king's death and reclaimed by nature.

Rise of the Hittites - The Legions of Hatusa Documentary

The Hittites were a powerful empire that emerged from the city of Hattusa in modern-day Turkey during the Late Bronze Age. Their warriors were well-equipped professionals, hardened by life in the highlands and supplied by some of the finest armories of its age. The Hittite Kingdom challenged the reigning powers of Egypt and Assyria with a formidable force. The Hittite society was led by a supreme leader who acted as the top military commander, judicial authority, and high priest. Their powers were regulated by the earliest known constitutional monarchy, which established the king as the head of state, followed by the heir apparent, and several other government officials.

The Hittite army was highly militarized and drawn from various tiers of society, including farmers and specialist craftsmen. The core of their army consisted of a professional standing army, supplemented by levies drawn from the lower classes. The Hittites preferred to resolve their crises through diplomatic means, but if bloodshed could not be avoided, they were able to field one of the most impressive armies of the ancient world.

New Great Sphinx Origins Hypothesis: But is it all Just Hot Air?

NYU researchers have suggested that the Great Sphinx of Giza in Egypt was likely first sculpted by wind erosion long before ancient Egyptian artists gave it its final form. The researchers conducted an experiment to test whether nature could create a lion-like piece of bedrock, which would have then inspired the Egyptians to shape it into their monument. The experiment produced a rough lion-like sculpture, which was shaped by a constant flow of water mimicking air and coming constantly from one direction directly in front of a half-ellipsoid mound with a single piece of hard rock at the top.

However, the researchers’ experiment has no bearing on the origins of the Great Sphinx of Egypt, which sits inside a hollow and was shaped by man thousands of years ago. The Great Sphinx has no front paws, which shows that the experiment by the NYU researchers does not explain how the Sphinx was formed. Furthermore, the wind at Giza is not constant from one direction, whereas the experiment only accounts for a constant wind direction from east to west.

Evo-Ed: History, Genetics, and Human Skin Color

The first humans lived in Africa and had dark skin, which protected their skin cells from the harmful effects of UV radiation. Human migration out of Africa began around 70,000 years ago. A mutation in the kit ligand gene in an ancient human population impacted melanocyte production and subsequently led to lighter skin in populations that migrated out of the Northwest Arabian Peninsula and into other regions. This mutation is absent in people with sub-Saharan African ancestry. Another group of humans migrated directly from Africa and retained their dark-skinned characteristics.

As the European population continued its expansion, they had further genetic mutations in the genes of two transporter proteins called slc24a5 and slc45a2, which aided in the production of EU melanin. The function of the proteins from these genes was compromised, resulting in less EU melanin production and lighter skin. Meanwhile, one of the main populations that migrated northeast out of the Arabian Peninsula experienced a mutation in a gene called mfsd12, which shifted skin pigment production away from EU melanin towards the lighter pigment feo melanin.

Overall, human migration was not a simple one-way flow of traffic, and there were likely multiple migration events and movements back and forth to and from different regions. The diversity of skin colors in modern humans can be traced back to these ancient migration and genetic mutation events.

Earths Most Amazing Pre-Flood Ruins?

The Bevy Mausoleum is an ancient structure located in Turkey, often overlooked despite its precise and unexplained architecture. Academia believes it to be a tomb from the Hellenistic era, built around the 3rd century BC as a burial site for Antiochus 2 Theos, a ruler of the Salid dynasty. However, the advanced precision techniques involved in its original build suggest a lost knowledge and civilization. The chamber and sarcophagus of the mausoleum were precisely carved from solid rock, with a square plan of 29 meters in length and 10 meters in height. The rock was then covered with marble slabs traced to a quarry near Ephesus, requiring up to 2,500 cubic meters of marble to complete the decorations. A second level, surrounded by 28 columns, has since turned to dust. The original builder and purpose of the mausoleum remain unknown, but it is believed to have been the burial site of an important person from a much earlier time than Academia's suggested construction date.

In Texas, an ancient wall was unearthed in 1852 that is still heavily debated today. Conservative estimates place its creation 100,000 years ago, but some believe it to be an antediluvian relic left by a lost civilization 200–400,000 years ago. Dr. John Gman of the University of Texas at Dallas tested the rocks as part of a History Channel documentary, claiming that they formed where they lay and were all magnetized in the same way, suggesting a natural origin. However, geologist James Shelton and Harvard's architect John Lindsay have focused on its unique design features, including archways, lintel portals, square doorways, and window openings, which suggest artificial creation and functionality for humans. The depth and height of the wall are also impressive, with an excavation reaching 40 feet deep without finding the bottom. Megalithic stones were discovered at considerable depth and weight. The wall's original builders and purpose remain a mystery.

Maya Warrior Head Sculpture Discovered at Chichén Itzá

In the heart of the Yucatán Peninsula, where echoes of the ancient Maya civilization resonate through the stones of Chichén Itzá, a remarkable discovery has once again ignited the flames of archaeological fascination. Emerging from the shadows of Maudslay's Temple 6 in the Casa Colorada complex, a recently unearthed sculpture of a Maya warrior's head, adorned with a helmet shaped like a feathered serpent with open jaws, has captured the imagination of the archaeological community. Discovered during the ongoing archaeological rescue work preceding the construction of the Maya Train, this 33-centimeter-high masterpiece offers a captivating glimpse into the earliest periods of Chichén Itzá's habitation.

The unveiling of this archaeological treasure occurred on a fateful Tuesday within the sacred confines of Maudslay's Temple 6. Attributed to the dedicated efforts of the Program for the Improvement of Archaeological Zones (Promeza), conducted as part of the preparations for the Maya Train construction, the well-preserved state of the sculpture hints at its resilience through the passage of time. This discovery underscores the artistic prowess of the ancient Maya civilization and reaffirms Chichén Itzá as a repository of untold historical richness.

Iconography and Significance

The Maya warrior head sculpture, standing at 33 centimeters in height, intricately showcases a helmet resembling a feathered serpent—a symbol deeply intertwined with Kukulcán, the feathered serpent deity revered by the Maya. Diego Prieto Hernández, head of the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), illuminated the significance of this representation during President López Obrador's morning press conference. He emphasized the adherence to the tradition of depicting warriors with unique headdresses, in this instance, featuring the serpent figure and a feathered headdress.

The Casa Colorada area where the sculpture was found during excavation work. (INAH/Cuartoscuro)

Connections to Kukulcán

Diego Prieto Hernández proposed that the imagery likely pays homage to Kukulcán, a central figure in Maya mythology. Coincidentally, the preceding week saw the revelation of a circular temple dedicated to Kukulcán at the El Tigre site in Campeche, underscoring the intricate connections between Chichén Itzá and the broader Maya cultural landscape.

Updates on Promeza Projects

Beyond the Chichén Itzá revelation, Diego Prieto Hernández seized the press conference to provide updates on other Promeza initiatives. Notably, conservation efforts are underway at the Xelhá site on the coast of Quintana Roo, unveiling the principal port of the Cobá kingdom dating back 1,300 years. These projects, woven into the fabric of preservation, also strive to reconnect modern Maya communities with their culturally rich heritage.

Diego Prieto Herńandez discusses progress on archaeological work at a press conference. (Lopezobrador.org.mx)

Controversies Surrounding the Maya Train

While the archaeological findings are celebrated, the Maya Train project has not escaped controversy. Indigenous communities have voiced concerns about its environmental impact and potential disruption to their traditional way of life. Nevertheless, salvage work associated with the Maya Train has unearthed a staggering array of historical artifacts and structures, providing a tangible link to the past.

The discovery of the Maya warrior head sculpture at Chichén Itzá stands as a testament to the enduring allure of ancient civilizations. As archaeologists meticulously peel back the layers of time, each find enriches our understanding of the Maya people and their intricate cultural tapestry. While controversies persist around the Maya Train, the archaeological endeavors associated with it represent a delicate balance between progress and the preservation of invaluable historical treasures, ensuring that the whispers of the past continue to resonate in the present and beyond.

Ancient Metal Prosthetic Hand Found in Medieval German Grave

In a remarkable archaeological discovery, researchers in Germany have uncovered a skeleton with a metal prosthetic hand that dates back nearly 600 years. The find, situated near a church in Freising, southeast Germany, has left experts intrigued and has shed light on the advanced medical practices of the time. This extraordinary prosthetic, crafted from iron, replaced four missing fingers, prompting questions about the individual's life, the circumstances surrounding the amputations, and the practical use of such a device.

A Glimpse into the Past

The Bavarian State Office for Monument Preservation utilized carbon dating to estimate the age of the skeleton, placing the man between 30 and 50 years old at the time of his death, which occurred between 1450 and 1620. The four immobile fingers, intricately formed from sheet metal, appeared to have replaced amputated digits, leaving archaeologists to ponder the circumstances that led to this unique prosthetic.

Walter Irlinger, the head of the conservation department at the Bavarian State Office for Monument Preservation, described the prosthetic as a hollow structure attached to the left hand. The fingers were arranged parallel to each other, suggesting that the prosthetic was likely strapped to the stump of the hand. Inside the prosthetic, a gauze-like material was discovered, possibly used to cushion the wearer's hand, providing a glimpse into the practical considerations of the time.

Unanswered Questions

Despite the fascinating find, many questions remain unanswered. The report highlights the uncertainty surrounding how the man lost his fingers and the specifics of how he might have utilized the prosthetic in his daily life. The lack of historical records leaves room for speculation, fueling the mystery surrounding this ancient artificial hand.

The skeleton with the iron prosthesis in the grave. (Archaeological Office Anzenberger & Leicht, Anthropological Determination: Franziska Schreil M.A.)

The discovery in Freising is not the first of its kind. Archaeologists have previously uncovered approximately 50 similar prosthetics in central Europe, dating from the late Middle Ages (around 1300 to 1500) to the early modern period (around 1500 to 1800). The statement from the Bavarian State Office for Monument Preservation suggests that the region's history of military conflicts, including battles during the Thirty Years' War (1618 to 1648), likely contributed to an increased demand for prosthetics due to amputations.

Comparisons with Other Prosthetics

The find in Freising draws parallels with other historical prosthetics, such as the advanced device worn by the 16th-century German knight Götz von Berlichingen. After losing his right hand to cannon fire, Götz adopted a movable and technically complex prosthetic, showcasing the innovative approaches to rehabilitation during the medieval and early modern periods. Beyond Germany, archaeological discoveries of ancient prosthetics include a prosthetic toe in Egypt dating back 2,600 to 3,400 years and a prosthetic leg in Italy from around 300 B.C., illustrating the longstanding human quest for solutions to physical impairments.

The discovery of a nearly 600-year-old metal prosthetic hand in a medieval German grave adds a fascinating chapter to our understanding of ancient medical practices and the resilience of individuals in the face of physical challenges. As archaeologists continue to unravel the mysteries of this find, the story of the man with the iron hand serves as a testament to the human drive for innovation and adaptation across the centuries.

Cappadocia: Remarkable Mosaics Unearthed from a 4th Century Villa in Kayseri

In the heart of Turkey, the ancient city of Kayseri has long been a treasure trove of historical and archaeological wonders. Among its latest revelations, a 4th-century villa has been taking center stage, with ongoing excavations unearthing a stunning array of mosaics. These intricate artworks, spanning an impressive 600 square meters, offer a fascinating glimpse into the opulent past of this remarkable region. In this article, we delve into the rich history and significance of these newly discovered mosaics, shedding light on their cultural and historical context.

Photo: Sercan Küçükşahin, ANADOLU Agency

The Grand Unveiling

The Kayseri Provincial Culture and Tourism Director, Şükrü Dursun, revealed that the ongoing excavations in the İncesu district have yielded remarkable results. Over the past three years, diligent efforts have led to the unearthing of various areas within this ancient villa. Notably, the mosaic area, initially estimated at 300 square meters, has now expanded to an astonishing 600 square meters. This expansion attests to the sheer scale and grandeur of the villa.

A Window into the Past

Dursun's statements provide a glimpse into the villa's historical timeline. Based on their findings, it is believed that the villa was constructed in the 4th century. However, the excavations have also uncovered traces dating back to the 3rd century and beyond. The quality of craftsmanship evident in the floor mosaics suggests that this villa held great importance in its time.

Photo: Sercan Küçükşahin, ANADOLU Agency

The Discovery of Inscriptions

Perhaps one of the most captivating aspects of this excavation is the discovery of inscriptions within the villa. Among them is a Latin inscription found in what is presumed to be the reception hall. Additionally, Greek inscriptions have also come to light. These inscriptions offer a tantalizing glimpse into the cultural and linguistic diversity of the villa's inhabitants.

Mosaics of Geometric Elegance

The mosaics themselves are a testament to the villa's opulence and aesthetic sophistication. They predominantly feature intricate geometric patterns and ornaments, showcasing the artistic prowess of the craftsmen who once worked here. Each mosaic tile serves as a pixel in a larger picture, conveying stories and cultural elements from a bygone era.

Photo: Sercan Küçükşahin, ANADOLU Agency

A Glimpse into the Future

The significance of this archaeological site extends beyond its past. Can Erpek, a lecturer at Nevşehir Hacı Bektaş Veli University and head of the excavations, expressed gratitude to the Kayseri Metropolitan Municipality and İncesu Municipality for their support. He highlighted that the excavation area is expected to expand further in the coming year, potentially unearthing data from even earlier periods.

Erpek's research indicates that the villa, initially believed to date back to the 4th century, may have roots in the 3rd century. It appears to have continued its existence through the Byzantine era and even after the arrival of the Turks in Anatolia. This sprawling residence, boasting approximately 33 spaces, remains unparalleled in Central Anatolia, particularly in the Cappadocia region. The inscriptions, including the name 'Hyacinthos,' suggest a high-ranking official's residence.

Photo: Sercan Küçükşahin, ANADOLU Agency

Kayseri: An Open-Air Museum

Memduh Büyükkılıç, the Metropolitan Mayor of Kayseri, emphasized that the city resembles an open-air museum, with ongoing support for numerous archaeological excavations. Their aim is to uncover and share the region's cultural riches for the benefit of humanity.

In conclusion, the ongoing excavations in Kayseri have unveiled a mesmerizing glimpse into the past, where a grand villa once stood as a testament to opulence and artistic brilliance. These newly discovered mosaics not only enrich our understanding of the region's history but also underscore Kayseri's status as a cradle of civilization in Anatolia.

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

As the excavation efforts continue, we can look forward to more revelations that will further illuminate the story of this remarkable villa and the people who once called it home.

12 Most Incredible Ancient Finds That Change History

In today’s video we will highlight four significant historic discoveries that have changed the way we understand history. The first discovery was made in 2017 in the Blue Fish Caves of Yukon, Canada, where archaeologists found butchered animal bones that are 24,000 years old. This discovery pushes back the history of human habitation in North America by almost 10,000 years earlier than the earliest known spearheads on the continent. The second discovery is a short ancient Greek poem that dates back to the 8th century BCE, found inscribed on a medallion around the neck of a young woman in an ancient sarcophagus in Hungary. This poem pushes back the history of poetry by 300 years.

The third discovery is the Falcon Shrine, discovered in October 2022, which depicts previously unknown ancient rituals and practices specific to the Blemy culture, a nomadic Eastern desert culture that partially controlled the city of Baron in the 4th to 6th centuries. The fourth discovery is the Magdala Stone, a carved stone block discovered in an ancient synagogue in Israel in 2009, which upends assumptions about ancient Judaism and may indicate that Jesus Christ taught inside the synagogue of Magdala.

A Giant Door In The Sky: 5 Unexplained Ancient Structures Built Above

Mount Nemrut, located in southeastern Turkey, is home to a trove of colossal stone statues believed to guard the Royal tomb of King Antiochus I of Kamini, whose burial dates back to the first century BC. The king, who ruled the kingdom of Kamini from 70 BC to 36 BC, commissioned the construction of a sanctuary adorned with towering statues, envisioned as guardians for his tomb. The site features two terraces, each showcasing a row of diverse statues embodying Antiochus's reverence for Greek and Persian Anatolian religions. The statues depict Greek gods like Zeus and Apollo alongside Eastern counterparts like Orases and Mithis, with lion and eagle statues flanking each row to symbolize royal authority and divine guardianship. The site has been said to have been the space for ceremonies linked to the astronomical and religious nature of the statues. The sanctuary, now a UNESCO World Heritage site, continues to lure the curious and the scholarly, with its stone sentinels silently guarding the mysteries of a king's eternal repose.

MCAS, a Hilltop Palace and Fortress situated in modern-day Jordan along the Jordan River on the eastern shore of the Dead Sea, is the site of the capture and execution of John the Baptist. John played a pivotal role as the harbinger and baptizer of Jesus, with his outspoken disapproval of King Herod Antipas's marriage to Herodias marking the beginning of his downfall. John was beheaded with his head delivered to Salam on a platter, marking the dire fate of the Prophet. Archaeologist G. Voros believes that a courtyard found in MCAS is the actual spot where John the Baptist was condemned and sentenced to death, but the veracity of this narrative remains uncertain due to a lack of evidence.

Karahan Tepe Secrets Revealed: The 11,500-Year-Old Enclosure Roof

Kevin Eslinger, a 3D artist and ancient history enthusiast, has used his skills to reconstruct the framework of the roof structure of an ancient site in Southeastern Anatolia, Karahan Tepe, which dates back to around 11,500 years ago. The site is believed to have been a communal building that was used for meetings, rituals, feasts or even as a bathhouse.

The structure has two enormous central pillars and broken pillars made of stone and bedrock, which Kevin believes were intended to hold up the roof. He has replaced the fallen and crumbled pillars to give a better understanding of how the structure would have been arranged. The site is believed to be only 5–10% excavated and has revealed fascinating discoveries, including an enormous statue found a few weeks ago. Kevin’s work is helping to understand the truly ancient and mysterious sites in Southeastern Anatolia and is important for future generations to appreciate and learn from.

What was really discovered under Teotihuacan?

Archaeologists have spent the last 12 years exploring an 18-meter-deep tunnel beneath the Pyramid of the Sun in the ancient Mesoamerican city of Teotihuacan, 40 kilometers northeast of Mexico City. The tunnel was discovered in 2003 after heavy rain uncovered a hole near the pyramid temple. It extends 100 meters from the center of the square in front of the temple to the pyramid itself. The walls and ceiling are lined with pyrite, also known as fool's gold, which would have created a dazzling star-like effect in torch light.

The tunnel, which was sealed for 1,800 years, contained a treasure trove of ancient artifacts, including finely carved statues, jewelry, and ceramics, but most mysterious was the significant amount of liquid mercury found. Mercury is a rare liquid metal that is toxic to humans and very difficult to extract from deposits in the ground, meaning it is not found in large concentrations. The discovery has led to speculation that the metal was used for ritual purposes.

Astonishing Results: Ancient Egyptian Granite Vases Analyzed

Uncharted X has provided an update on the vas scan project, which aims to analyze and scan ancient Egyptian vases to determine their age and origin. The team has scanned and analyzed more vases, and the results have shown that several of the vases have Precision manufacturing that is equal to or better than the initial Granite vase.

The project has also confirmed that the vases are not modern fakes, with some possessing impeccable Providence tracing back to the 1800s. The team is working on gaining access to museum pieces, but even the vases that can be traced back to the 1960s and 1980s raise questions about who was capable of executing such precise designs in granite. The results of the vas scan project have significant implications for the narrative of history, and while criticism and questions are necessary for such projects, it is difficult to argue with the hard data of the results and the open-source nature of the work.

Ranking Enemies of the Roman Republic from Worst to Best

In this video, the enemies of the Roman Republic are ranked based on four criteria: battles, will to fight, threat, and diplomatic unreliability. Cyprus is ranked as the least dangerous faction on the list due to their lack of defense against the Romans. Crete, Paman, and Galatia are tied for the next spot due to their quick defeat by the Romans in a single campaign. Sardinians, consisting of the tribes of Cory Ballari and Yoles, rebelled every 30 years or so but were always defeated and enslaved. Egypt, despite being considered a bloody Roman sight, was played like a fiddle by the Romans and was made into a Roman province without much resistance.

The two most dangerous factions are the Seleucids and the Carthaginians, due to their strong will to fight and threat to the Roman Republic. The Seleucids were eventually defeated by the Romans, while the Carthaginians put up a strong fight in the Punic Wars but were ultimately defeated, and the city of Carthage was destroyed. Overall, the ranking is based on how much of a threat each faction poses to the Roman Republic.

When did the Middle East begin to Fall Apart? | History of the Middle East 1800-1820

The decline of Islamic empires in the late 18th century was followed by a series of events that reshaped the region. Napoleon's invasion of Egypt was a significant event that paved the way for the French to construct the Suez Canal and establish a foothold in India. After defeating the ruling mamlock at the Battle of the Pyramids, Napoleon marched on into the Levant but was forced to retreat from Palestine and Egypt in 1801.

A power vacuum was left behind, and Muhammad Ali emerged as the leader of the remaining Albanian forces. He concluded an alliance with the leader of the mamluks, Ibrahim Bay, to force the Turkish troops out of Cairo. However, further divisions emerged among the mamluks, and Muhammad Ali struck first to defeat his enemy. The public supported the Albanians, leading to a rebellion against the Mamluks. The Ottoman governor, Husrev Pasha, was unable to bring stability to the country due to financial problems, and the situation remained in a stalemate.

Apply These and Be Respected by everyone: 10 Powerful Stoic Lessons

Dealing with disrespect can be challenging, but the teachings of stoicism can help you handle it with grace and poise. Stoicism emphasizes maintaining composure and detachment, viewing disrespectful actions as a reflection of the other person's character rather than letting them dictate one's emotions. Reflecting on oneself, pausing before reacting, using humor or smiling, responding with reason and not emotions, embracing acceptance, and practicing empathy are some ways to handle disrespect effectively. By keeping calm, rising above negativity, and responding with compassion and empathy, one can diffuse the situation and promote positive change.

Reflecting on one's core values can provide a framework for making decisions and taking action. Using humor or a positive attitude can shift the focus away from negative energy and create a more peaceful environment for communication. Responding with virtues such as wisdom and courage can lead to creative solutions and effective outcomes. Embracing acceptance and practicing empathy can cultivate inner peace and happiness, enabling one to respond to disrespect with grace and equanimity.

The Papyrus of Derveni: The Only Readable Papyrus Found in Greece and the Oldest "Book" in Europe

---

By Dimosthenis Vasiloudis

---

The Derveni Papyrus: A Remarkable Window into Ancient Greek Mystical Cults

The Derveni Papyrus, discovered near Thessaloniki in Greece, stands as a monumental discovery in the field of classical studies and ancient history. Unearthed in 1962 at the Macedonian Tomb of Lagadas, or the so-called "Tomb of Makridis Bey," this artifact is not just a relic of the past but a bridge to the intellectual world of ancient Greece. Dating back to around 340–320 BC, it is the oldest readable manuscript found in Europe, making it a treasure of unparalleled value.

Discovery and Preservation

The papyrus was found among the remains of a funeral pyre in a richly adorned tomb from the late classical era. Its survival is somewhat miraculous: it remained legible despite being partially charred, a state that perhaps paradoxically aided in its preservation. The initial recognition of its significance came from the excavator, Petros Themelis, followed by the contributions of archaeologist Charalambos Makarona. Austrian expert A. Fakelman played a crucial role in its preservation, unrolling the scroll and placing its fragments between glass panes. It is written with a pointed reed dipped in ink, consists of nine panels, and 266 fragments have survived, ranging in size from that of a large postage stamp to that of a lentil.

 

The Challenge of Deciphering

The papyrus presented a considerable challenge for translation. It wasn't until October 2006 that Kyriakos Tsantsanoglou, a Greek professor of classical literature and a papyriologist, announced a successful complete translation. The text offers a philosophical exposition by an unknown author, believed to be associated with Anaxagoras' circle. The content is so significant that it has been described as "the most important new evidence for ancient Greek philosophy and religion to appear since the Renaissance" and simultaneously as "the most difficult to understand."

Insight into Mystical Beliefs and Cults of orphism

The first seven columns of the papyrus give us a glimpse into the mystical beliefs and cults of the era, including the practices of the Persian priesthood (magician). The author discusses the disbelief in the afterlife sufferings and describes various rituals like sacrifices and libations made to the Erinyes and Eumenides. Intriguingly, the author perceives these entities not as deities but as the countless souls of the dead.

The Derveni papyrus – Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki

A Unique Theogony

The papyrus continues with the interpretation of an enigmatic Orphic hymn. This theogony, unknown until the discovery of the Derveni Papyrus except through its later variants, provides a unique perspective on ancient Greek mythology and religious thought. This section sheds light on the complex and often esoteric mythological narratives that were prevalent in ancient Greek culture, offering scholars a rare insight into the evolution of these stories and their meanings.

The central focus of the text is a critical analysis of a hexameter poem attributed to Orpheus, utilized in Dionysus's mystery cult by Orphic initiators. The text includes excerpts from the poem, interpreted by the author to suggest that Orpheus used allegory rather than literal narrative. Opening with "Close the doors, you uninitiated," the poem's secretive tone is underscored, hinting at its allegorical nature.

The poem's theogony narrative begins with Nyx (Night) birthing Uranus (Sky), the first king, followed by Cronus and Zeus, with Zeus ultimately reigning supreme, guided by oracles from Nyx. A controversial aspect involves Zeus's relations with Rhea and Demeter, leading to Persephone's birth, though details are presumably in a missing second roll.

The interpreter posits that Orpheus's tales are allegorical, conveying profound truths through riddles, targeting an audience "pure in hearing." The text's opening columns, less preserved, delve into occult rituals, sacrifices to Erinyes, dealing with troublesome daimones, and the beliefs of the magi. These columns controversially include quotations from Heraclitus and, as noted by Richard Janko, Parmenides. The reconstruction of these fragments is highly debated, with significant contributions from Valeria Piano and Richard Janko, offering divergent perspectives.

The Derveni papyrus fragments as displayed in the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki, along with the UNESCO dedication in the middle of the panel

The Derveni Papyrus is a cultural and historical artifact of immense value. Not only does it serve as a testament to the rich intellectual tradition of ancient Greece, but it also offers a rare glimpse into the intersection of philosophy, religion, and mythology in a period that laid the foundations for much of Western thought. Its preservation and translation have opened a window into a world that continues to fascinate and inform modern scholarship, making it a priceless gem in the study of ancient civilizations.

Assyrian Genocide: A Fate Worse Than Death

In this video, we will provide an overview of one of three mass campaigns of extermination waged by the Ottoman Empire during World War I. The Assyrian Genocide, which lasted between 1914 and 1918, resulted in the deaths of hundreds of thousands of Assyrian tribesmen due to racially and religiously motivated atrocities, including executions, burning, demolition, and persecution. The Ottomans targeted Assyrians for their ethnicity, religion, and perceived foreign influence, which led to the destruction of the Assyrian culture, language, and social structure.

The video discusses the intense violence in the province of Di Beish, where thousands of Assyrian refugees attempted to escape from the Ottomans. Mahmmed Resid Bay Resid, an eager murderer and one of the most feared perpetrators of the Assyrian and Armenian genocides, led the violence in the valley of Ban, where hundreds of prisoners were killed. Despite persecution, the Assyrians managed to resist the Ottomans in the towns of Aan Vardo and Aizza. The Assyrian Genocide, which was mostly complete by late 1915, resulted in the deaths of around 300,000 people. Despite a higher estimated death toll, accountability for the genocide was never sought, and only a few people were ever charged or convicted of their crimes. Today, the Assyrian community continues to seek acknowledgment of the atrocities committed against them in Turkey.