If you to travelled back to North America, anywhere from 83 to 77 million years ago, you would find the lands covered with dinosaurs, many of which were giant. However, they wouldn't be the largest things you could 'run' into, as during those times that largest creature in North America was not a dinosaur, but rather a crocodilian, the Deinosuchus.
Thirty Ancient Artifacts Worth $3.7 Million Were Returned to Greece by the US
In a symbolic gesture of cultural preservation and cooperation, the United States recently returned 30 ancient artifacts to Greece, including an array of marble statues, bronze helmets, breastplates, and other priceless relics. These objects, dating back as far as 4,700 years ago to the Middle Ages, were discovered to have been illicitly removed from Greece, prompting their repatriation to their rightful home.
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, who played a pivotal role in this restitution, described the returned artifacts as "exquisite" and collectively valued at a staggering $3.7 million (3.39 million euros). The significance of these pieces extends beyond their monetary worth, as they hold a profound cultural and historical resonance for Greece.
Nineteen of the artifacts were voluntarily surrendered by Michael Ward, a New York gallery owner, underscoring the importance of ethical stewardship within the art world. Additionally, three other artifacts were seized from British art dealer Robin Symes, shedding light on the shadowy world of art trafficking. Furthermore, one item was discovered in a storage unit belonging to an undisclosed New York-based private collector, emphasizing the need for vigilance in tracking down stolen antiquities.
Among the returned treasures stands a remarkable Roman-era headless marble statue of Aphrodite, the ancient Greek goddess of love. This particular statue has been concealed in Symes' storage unit since at least 1999, underscoring the lengths to which some individuals will go to circumvent the law in pursuit of valuable antiquities.
The repatriated artifacts encompass a diverse range of historical periods and artistic styles. They include seven bronze helmets dating from the 6th century B.C. to the 3rd century B.C., two bronze and two iron breastplates used by ancient soldiers, a medieval silver platter, a marble Cycladic figurine from 2,700–2,300 B.C., as well as Mycenaean and Minoan Cretan pottery. These objects collectively represent a tapestry of Greece's rich and multifaceted cultural heritage.
Greek Culture Minister Lina Mendoni commended the "strong cooperation and hard work" by U.S. and Greek experts that paved the way for the return of these antiquities. Such collaboration highlights the international commitment to rectifying the illicit trade in stolen cultural treasures and safeguarding the world's cultural heritage.
This repatriation effort is not an isolated incident. It follows two similar operations earlier this year, in which 29 antiquities were returned, and a significant repatriation event last year, when 55 works were brought back from New York. These actions reflect a growing global awareness of the need to combat the illegal trade of antiquities and restore stolen heritage to its rightful owners.
Greece has been a prime target for criminal networks engaged in the trafficking of illegally excavated antiquities, which often command high prices in the international art market. By law, all ancient artifacts found in Greece are considered state property, further emphasizing the importance of repatriating these cultural treasures.
In conclusion, the return of these 30 ancient artifacts to Greece serves as a powerful testament to the enduring value of cultural heritage and the international commitment to protecting it. It is a reminder that the past should not be plundered for profit but preserved for future generations to appreciate and learn from, and it underscores the vital role that cooperation and vigilance play in safeguarding our shared history.
This handout picture released by the Italian Culture Ministry on December 12, 2023 shows mosaics uncovered in a luxurious Roman home near the Colosseum. (Photo by Handout / ITALIAN MINISTRY OF CULTURE / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - MANDATORY CREDIT "AFP PHOTO / ITALIAN CULTURE MINISTER " - NO MARKETING NO ADVERTISING CAMPAIGNS - DISTRIBUTED AS A SERVICE TO CLIENTS - RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - MANDATORY CREDIT "AFP PHOTO / ITALIAN CULTURE MINISTER " - NO MARKETING NO ADVERTISING CAMPAIGNS - DISTRIBUTED AS A SERVICE TO CLIENTS - RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - MANDATORY CREDIT "AFP PHOTO / ITALIAN CULTURE MINISTER " - NO MARKETING NO ADVERTISING CAMPAIGNS - DISTRIBUTED AS A SERVICE TO CLIENTS
An Ancient Roman Gem With a Magnificent Mosaic: The Luxurious Domus near the Colosseum
In the heart of Rome, beneath the bustling streets and modern cityscape, lies a hidden treasure that has recently come to light: a luxurious Roman home, or domus, near the iconic Colosseum. Italian archaeologists made this extraordinary discovery, revealing a mosaic of unparalleled beauty and historical significance that sheds light on the opulent lifestyles of ancient Roman nobility. In this article, we delve into the details of this remarkable find, exploring its historical context and the captivating scenes depicted in its mosaic.
A Treasure Beneath Rome's Bustling Streets
The domus, which dates back to the second half of the 2nd century BC and the end of the 1st century BC, is a testament to the grandeur of ancient Roman architecture and culture. Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano aptly describes it as "an authentic treasure." Discovered in 2018, the excavation is ongoing, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the opulent world of the past.
The Banquet Hall of a Nobleman
At the heart of the domus lies its main room, a banquet hall styled as a grotto, which was likely used during the warm summer months. The owner of this residence, believed to be a nobleman, would have entertained guests with spectacular water games, thanks to lead pipes cleverly set within the decorated walls.
The Extraordinary Mosaic
What truly sets this discovery apart is an extraordinary wall adorned with a 'rustic' mosaic of unparalleled complexity. This mosaic is a captivating blend of different elements, including shells, Egyptian blue tesserae, precious glass, and minute flakes of white marble. The scenes depicted are a testament to the owner's triumphs, both on land and at sea.
A Triumph of Scenes
The mosaic tells a story of victory and conquest, with depictions of Celtic-type trumpets, warships, and tridents amidst vines and lotus leaves. These symbols allude to a double triumph, suggesting that the owner of the domus achieved greatness both on the battlefield and in naval conquests. Three imposing ships, one of which is proudly raising its sails, are plowing the sea in a landscape with a coastal city and a cliff made of travertine rock. This representation hints at a warlike conquest by the domus's owner, likely an aristocratic figure, perhaps even of senatorial rank.
A Glimpse into Roman Opulence
Adjacent to the mosaic, archaeologists have uncovered white stucco of the highest quality in the reception room. This exquisite find is a testament to the opulence and attention to detail that characterized the homes of the Roman elite.
A Window into Ancient Rome
This domus serves as an early example of "luxuria," the practice of displaying wealth and rank through lavish villas and lifestyles. It also aligns with historical sources that describe the extensive residences of prominent Roman senatorial families in the northwestern area of the Palatine, one of Rome's iconic seven hills.
The discovery of this luxurious Roman home near the Colosseum is not merely an archaeological find; it is a window into the opulent world of ancient Rome. The breathtaking mosaic and the history it represents offer us a glimpse into the lives of those who lived over two millennia ago. As the excavation continues, we eagerly anticipate the day when this evocative piece of history will be accessible to the public, allowing us all to step back in time and marvel at the grandeur of Rome's past.
The Transformation of the Vatican Hill: From Roman Necropolis to St. Peter's Basilica
The Vatican Hill, an emblem of religious significance and an architectural marvel, has witnessed a remarkable transformation through the centuries. Its evolution from a Roman necropolis and the Circus of Caligula to the majestic St. Peter's Basilica is a tale that intertwines history, religion, and art.
The Early Days: Roman Necropolis and Circus
Originally, the Vatican was not a site of Christian significance. In the era of the Roman Empire, it was a necropolis, a city of the dead. This necropolis was located outside the city limits, as Roman law prohibited burial places within the city. The Vatican necropolis lay along the Via Cornelia and housed the tombs of various Roman families, some of which have been unearthed and studied by archaeologists. These findings reveal insights into the burial practices and beliefs of ancient Romans.
Adjacent to this necropolis was the Circus of Caligula, also known as the Circus of Nero. Constructed in the first century, this circus was a venue for chariot races and other public games, a common form of entertainment in ancient Rome. It is believed that St. Peter, one of Jesus Christ’s apostles, was martyred in this very circus under Emperor Nero's reign.
The Birth of a Sacred Site: Old St. Peter's Basilica
The transformation of the Vatican from a pagan site to a place of Christian worship began with the construction of the Old St. Peter's Basilica. Following Emperor Constantine’s conversion to Christianity and the Edict of Milan in 313 AD, which granted religious tolerance throughout the empire, the persecution of Christians ceased. Emperor Constantine commissioned the building of a great basilica over the supposed tomb of St. Peter.
The construction of Old St. Peter's Basilica marked a significant shift, both religiously and culturally. The basilica, completed in the 4th century, was an architectural wonder of its time. It boasted a vast nave with aisles, an atrium, and numerous chapels and altars, becoming a major pilgrimage site and a symbol of the burgeoning power of the Christian church.
The Renaissance Transformation: New St. Peter's Basilica
By the early 16th century, the Old St. Peter’s Basilica had deteriorated significantly. The decision to rebuild led to the construction of the New St. Peter’s Basilica, a project that spanned over a century and involved some of the most renowned architects and artists of the time, including Bramante, Michelangelo, and Bernini.
Bramante’s initial plan was for a Greek Cross design, but it was later altered to a Latin Cross by Carlo Maderno. Michelangelo, taking over the project at 71, redesigned the dome, combining architectural skills with his artistic vision. The dome of St. Peter's, completed after his death, remains one of the most iconic features of the Roman skyline.
The interior of the basilica is a celebration of Renaissance and Baroque art, with Bernini's Baldachin standing as a focal point over the papal altar. The basilica’s architecture, art, and its location over the tomb of St. Peter make it a place of unparalleled religious and historical significance.
The Vatican Hill’s transformation from a Roman necropolis and circus to the site of one of Christianity’s most sacred and architecturally significant buildings is a vivid illustration of the interplay between history, religion, and art. St. Peter’s Basilica, in its successive phases, not only symbolizes the growth of Christianity but also stands as a testament to human creativity and devotion through the ages.
5 STOIC THINGS YOU MUST DO EVERY MORNING - Ancient Stoicism
This video discusses how to start each day with a morning routine that reflects the ancient appreciation for existence found in Stoic philosophy.
The video offers three Stoic practices to help begin each day with peace and purpose. The first practice is to meditate on the impermanence of all things, including the fleeting nature of life, to appreciate the beauty and fragility of existence. The second practice is to write down one's thoughts in a diary, which helps with self-reflection, grounding, and healing.
The third practice is to write daily intentions, which focus on the present journey, personal values, and the type of person one wants to be, rather than solely on future goals and outcomes. The video emphasizes that these practices can help one focus on what truly matters in life and avoid wasting time on unimportant things.
By starting each day with a sense of purpose and gratitude, one can celebrate life and make the most of it. The video encourages viewers to turn these practices into a daily routine and to use them as tools for personal growth and self-awareness.
12 Most Mysterious Recent Ancient Finds
Archaeologists have discovered several mysterious artifacts from ancient cultures that they struggle to understand. One of these discoveries includes a sacred bronze tree that was found in China's Sichuan Province. The tree is believed to have been made by the Shu culture, which existed about 3,200 years ago.
The tree was deliberately disturbed between layers of ivory, and its significance is unknown. In Scotland, a collection of artifacts from the witch hunts period, including a set of stone charms and a Gaelic prayer book that belonged to a wizard in the 16th century, were recently put on display for the public. At least 3,800 people were accused of witchcraft in Scotland between the 1560s and the 1730s.
Another artifact is the guinel stargazer idol, one of only 15 Anatolian marble female idols ever found. It is thought to have been illegally looted from Turkey in 1993 and is about 6,000 years old. Lastly, archaeologists discovered two delicately carved and polished stone balls inside a 5,500-year-old tomb on the Scottish island of Orne, and while there are many theories about their use, no conclusive answer has been found.
A day in the rebellion against the Inca Empire
The city of Chan Chan is the former seat of the Chimú Empire in modern-day Peru. The city was conquered by the Incas, and the Chimú king was taken hostage. In the midst of political turmoil, a group of influential people from the city gather secretly to plan a rebellion against the Incas. They ask Maxo, a former soldier who survived the last battle, to join them. Maxo is hesitant, fearing for the safety of the Chimú king and the city's residents. However, the Chimú king's son reveals that there are rumors that the king is already dead, and the time for rebellion is now. Maxo agrees to join the rebellion, and the group plans to attack the Inca soldiers at the old fortress down the road.
The city of Chan Chan was once a trade hub with thousands of artisans, but after the conquest, the Inca rulers took the artisans away to Cusco. The rebellion is successful, but the Inca Empire burns Chan Chan, killing many of its residents and scattering others throughout the empire. The mummified remains of a man from this period were discovered just outside Chan Chan in 2016, but many details of the rebellion and who was behind it remain mysteries.
Are there Descendants of Romans living in China?
A remote village in central China is home to people who claim to be descendants of Romans, with many having Western facial features such as blue eyes and fair hair. The story of these villagers who believe in their Roman ancestry is fascinating, with some believing that they are descendants of Roman soldiers captured during the Battle of Carrhae in 53 BC.
The Romans suffered a brutal defeat against the Persians, with 20,000 soldiers losing their lives and 10,000 being captured. According to some accounts, 10,000 of these captured soldiers were relocated to the eastern border of the Parthian Empire, which makes sense as the Parthians would have wanted to force them to fight for them.
It is believed that they were sent to what is now modern-day Afghanistan to fight against the Eastern Barbarian tribes. Fast forward 17 years, in 36 BC, and the Battle of Gigi was fought between the Chinese and the Xiongnu, with Chinese annals recording mercenaries fighting on the side of the Xiongnu, who used a fish scale formation. The formation impressed the Chinese, who extended an invitation for the strange surviving soldiers to travel with them to China.
Proponents of the theory believe that these strange soldiers using the fish scale formation were actually the surviving legionaries of the Battle of Carrhae who had switched sides from the Parthians to the Xiongnu. If true, the fish scale formation would then have been nothing else than the testudo formation of the Romans.
The Bizarre Life Of China's First Emperor: Qin Shi Huang
Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of ancient China, is known for his construction of the Great Wall and the terracotta soldiers guarding his tomb, but he was also a paranoid ruler obsessed with living forever. He ascended to the throne at 13 years old, and rumors circulated that he was the son of his predecessor's concubine, while his chancellor plotted to install his friend on the throne.
Huang ruthlessly crushed a rebellion by his chancellor and had him executed, along with his entire family, sparing only his mother, whom he banished, and living under house arrest. Huang also eradicated his enemies, exterminating multiple bloodlines and enslaving their armies. He faced multiple assassination attempts, including one from a close associate who infiltrated the court as a lute player. Despite earning a royal pardon, the musician was punished by having his eyes gouged out and later put to death. Huang died at the age of 50, partially due to his obsession with immortality, as he consumed mercury pills and had a group of alchemists searching for the elixir of life.
The 5 Most Incredible Archaeological Discoveries of Recent Times
In this video, we have compiled a list of potential archaeological discoveries and stories that could occur in 2023. One significant discovery is a bone scepter belonging to a Scythian warlord from the 5th century BC that was found during excavations in northeast Bulgaria. Scythian graves are rare in today’s northeastern Bulgaria, with only four or five having been discovered so far, making this find particularly significant. In Göbeklitepe and Karahantepe, a human statue with a realistic facial expression was found in Karahantepe, and a painted wild boar statue was discovered in Göbeklitepe.
The painted sculpture was the first of its kind to be found, from its period to the present day. As part of the Taş Tepeler project, which sheds light on prehistory and has seen highly significant discoveries on a global scale, the archaeological excavations carried out in 2023 in nine different areas have recently led to the discovery of human and animal statues. Finally, researchers at the National Museum of Denmark using 3D scans have identified who carved the Jelling Stone Runes, located in the town of Jelling, Denmark, and the discovery shows that Queen Thyra was far more important than previously assumed.
Archaeologists discovered a cat's jaw during excavations in the Ancient City of Apameia
A jawbone from a large feline species, possibly a lion, tiger, or panther, has been discovered at the Ancient City of Apameia in Turkey. The city, established in the 3rd century BC by Antiochus I Soter, is considered the second most important city after the ancient city of Ephesus. Its theater, dating back to the Hellenistic period, is one of the significant structures in the city, with the ability to accommodate up to 7,000 people.
The discovered jawbone may have been used in the shows held at the theater, and DNA analysis will be conducted to determine its age and species. The animal is not native to the region where it was found, and its proximity to the theater suggests a connection to ancient period performances. Intact pottery has also been unearthed during the excavation, providing valuable data related to the Hellenistic period.
The Iliad – What did Ancient Greek poetry sound like?
The video is a tutorial on how to recite the first line of The Iliad by Homer in perfect dactylic hexameter. The video is presented by Luke of Polymathy, and he uses reconstructed classical attic pronunciation while reciting the line. He explains that even if one uses modern Greek qualities of vowels and consonants, observing phonemic vowel and syllable length is still obligatory when dealing with ancient Greek.
Dactyl is a type of magical foot that has one long syllable followed by two short syllables; often, the two short syllables can be replaced by one long syllable. The final dactyl in hexameter is regularly replaced by a spandi, which is two long syllables. He urges you to write the lengths of the syllables under the line and not above it. After mastering the basic mechanical rhythm, one can add musical accents to it, as the ancient Greeks wrote the musical accents of their speech right into the line. The higher pitches would usually correspond to the higher notes of the pitch accents. The video is sponsored by the Ancient Language Institute (ALI), which uses a flipped classroom model to teach ancient Greek grammar, vocabulary, and literature.
How Did Ancient Greece Begin?
The video provides an overview of Archaic Greece, a time when Greeks colonized three continents and a military and political revolution was taking place. The video explores the development of the stadium and the ancient running race, which was originally 192 meters but generally 180 meters and performed in Greece. The location gives clues to its significance, beginning in 776 BCE in Olympia on the Peloponnese. The race became the basis for the Olympic Games, which honored Zeus.
Over time, more events were added, like pankration and wrestling. The shared culture of the Olympics gave different tribes around the Aegean a common identity. The video also explores the development of Greek language and writing in Homer's epics, The Iliad and The Odyssey, which became the basis for not only Greek mythology but Western literature. The Greeks coalesced around the principles of shared language and religion, but they were separate enough that rivalries would form. Greece underwent a period of colonization abroad to gain more resources and land.
Who Were The Sea Peoples?
The late Bronze Age collapse, the rapid decline and fall of the great civilizations of the Eastern Mediterranean in the late first millennium BCE, has been attributed historically to groups of people from disparate parts of the Mediterranean who ended up on the shores of the Hittite and Egyptian Empires, identified in the inscriptions of Pharaoh Ramesses III as the sea peoples. The sea peoples have been an enigma for scholars since the words of Pharaoh Ramses III inscribed on the walls of his Mortuary Temple at Medina Taboo in southern Egypt were first translated in the 1920s. In these inscriptions, Ramesses tells of how Egypt was attacked by what seemed to be a confederation of peoples from several parts of the Mediterranean world. The sea people affected several other countries, but it is from Egyptian sources that we get the most information about them. The few surviving sources from that era tell us how they ravaged cities and brought about the downfall of several kingdoms and empires, until the armed forces of Pharaoh Ramesses III halted their bloody path of destruction.
Total War Pharaoh is a strategy game that explores the Bronze Age collapse, where the player faces the end times of the great civilizations as ruler of one of the eight factions from three cultures: the Egyptians, the Canaanites, and the Hittites. The game requires the player to maintain the pillars of civilization as the story of these kingdoms takes a turn for the worse, defend against the oncoming attacks of the sea peoples, carry civilization through disaster, and destroy rivals to become more powerful than ever before. The game features grand strategy across a world map and intense real-time battles when armies clash, offering an authentic portrayal of the Bronze Age.
10 Ancient Stoic Keys That Make You Outsmart Everybody Else
The video discusses ways to enhance intelligence and learning ability. It emphasizes the importance of curiosity, wide reading, and critical thinking as keys to being smarter than others. The video suggests that nurturing curiosity by observing the world with a fresh perspective, asking questions, and seeking answers is the first step towards being smarter. The second key to being smarter is expanding knowledge and intellect through wide reading. Reading extensively sharpens intelligence, enhances language skills, stimulates imagination, creativity, and critical thinking. It also broadens perspectives and empathy towards people from diverse cultures. The video suggests that many great thinkers and leaders in history were avid readers who drew inspiration and insight from books. By following in their footsteps, readers can unlock new facets of their intellectual potential and gain a competitive edge.
How Humans Became (Mostly) Right-Handed
Researchers have discovered that Neanderthals were predominantly right-handed, just like most modern humans. Anthropologists have analysed scratches on teeth from Neanderthals and other sites to determine that 70-95% of people are right-handed.
This preference for one hand over another appears to have deep evolutionary roots, possibly linked to the development of bipedalism and stone tool-making. However, handedness is more of a spectrum than a binary characteristic, with some people being strongly right or left-handed, and others falling between the two.
Handedness is linked to brain lateralisation, with each hand being controlled by a different side of the brain. Asymmetry and lateralisation are found in all vertebrates and some invertebrates, but humans exhibit these characteristics more extremely than other primates. There is lots of evidence that handedness has been present in humans for a long time.
For example, cave paintings around the world depict human hands, with the majority of these being left hands. Additionally, the bones of athletes such as tennis players tend to be thicker in their dominant arm due to the increased force placed on it.
Super Kinky Bizarre Sex Lives Of Ancient Egyptian Pharaohs
Ancient Egyptian culture was filled with bizarre and unconventional beliefs, including in regards to sex. The Egyptians believed in multiple gods, with the creation of the world being attributed to a god named Atom who masturbated, leading to the creation of twin gods. The Nile River was also a symbol of life and fertility, leading to pharaohs performing ceremonial masturbations into it.
The myth of Seth and Horus depicted two gods who constantly fought over the throne, with sexual elements being intertwined into the story. The Egyptians did not place much emphasis on virginity, with premarital relations being openly practiced. However, extramarital affairs were considered a major taboo, with harsh punishments being given out to those found guilty.
Divorce was only allowed if the wife was infertile or guilty of infidelity. Ancient Egyptian myth also saw male self-pleasure as almost divine, with pharaohs ceremonially masturbating into the Nile. While erotic imagery did exist, it was not as progressive as that of ancient Rome.
Resurrecting Ancient Glory: A 3D Journey through Ancient Athens
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the grandeur of Ancient Athens with our groundbreaking 3D reconstruction video. Witness the rebirth of this iconic city-state as we meticulously recreate its bustling agora, majestic temples, and stately monuments.
Traverse the cobblestone streets of the Acropolis, where the Parthenon stands as a testament to the architectural brilliance of a bygone era. Through cutting-edge technology and historical accuracy, our narration guides you through the vibrant democracy, cultural richness, and intellectual enlightenment that characterized Ancient Athens.
Unveil the secrets of this ancient metropolis, as we breathe life into the ruins and transport you to a world where philosophy echoed in the halls and democracy flourished under the Athenian sky. Join us on a captivating journey to experience the heartbeat of a city that once shaped the course of Western civilization.
Mysterious 230-Foot Shipwreck Discovered in the Baltic Depths
In a remarkable twist of fate, researchers have stumbled upon a perplexing maritime enigma at the bottom of the Baltic Sea off the coast of Lithuania. This unexpected discovery has ignited curiosity and intrigue among historians, archaeologists, and maritime enthusiasts alike. The sunken behemoth, measuring an impressive 230 feet in length and standing 20 feet tall, has remained hidden beneath the waves, shrouded in mystery, until now.
Ignitis Renewables, a subsidiary of the Lithuanian state-run energy company Ignitis Group, specializing in renewable energy solutions, was at the heart of this extraordinary find. Their initial objective was to conduct a survey of the seafloor for a wind farm project. Little did they know that they would stumble upon a relic of the past that defied explanation.
Located 125 feet beneath the ocean's surface in an area of the Baltic Sea that had previously eluded in-depth exploration, the sunken vessel had never been cataloged in national databases. Covering an extensive stretch of approximately 75 miles, this uncharted territory remained untouched by historical documentation until Ignitis Renewables' groundbreaking research.
Paulius Kalmantas, a spokesperson for Ignitis Renewables, emphasized the significance of this discovery, stating that it will prove invaluable to the scientific community and historians of Lithuania. The shipwreck's historical and underwater archaeological research promises to shed light on a previously obscured chapter of maritime history. Additionally, this data will play a pivotal role in the development of Lithuania's first offshore wind farm, aiming to satisfy a substantial portion of the country's electricity demand through sustainable green energy sources.
In a translated social media post, Ignitis Group shared their astonishment: "While carrying out research on the Baltic Sea floor for the offshore wind power park project, we have found a previously unknown sunken ship!" They pledged to entrust this extraordinary find to experts who would unravel its mysteries and share detailed seabed information with Lithuania's scientific community.
The fate of this shipwreck in Lithuania's national database of historically significant sites hinges on ongoing research. Augustina Kurilienė, an official with the heritage department at the Ministry of Culture, expressed the rarity of such discoveries in the Baltic Sea, noting that only 19 shipwrecks in Lithuanian waters are officially registered. She went on to explain that once the ship's precise date is established, a decision will be made regarding its inclusion in the Register of Cultural Values.
Nevertheless, Lithuania is steadfast in its commitment to adhere to UNESCO guidelines for the protection and preservation of underwater cultural heritage. Elena Pranckėnaitė, an archaeologist and heritage expert, emphasized that the shipwreck could offer invaluable insights into the history of maritime activities in the Baltic Sea, further enhancing our understanding of the region's rich maritime heritage.
In conclusion, the discovery of this colossal shipwreck beneath the Baltic waves serves as a testament to the unyielding allure of the sea, concealing secrets that continue to captivate the human imagination. As research and exploration progress, we eagerly anticipate the day when the enigma of this sunken giant is finally unraveled, offering us a glimpse into a bygone era of seafaring adventure and maritime history.
One of nine ice patches released objects from 6200–5300 years ago. DUNCAN MCLAREN
Frozen in Time: The Remarkable Discovery of a 7,000-Year-Old Trove in Canada's Mount Edziza
In the frigid expanses of northern Canada's Mount Edziza Provincial Park, where the harsh climate and remote location have long kept its secrets shrouded in ice, a remarkable thaw has revealed an archaeological treasure trove. Objects dating back as far as 7,000 years, belonging to the Tahltan First Nations, have emerged from the frozen depths, offering a captivating glimpse into the lives of ancient people who once roamed these lands.
Mount Edziza, nestled in northwestern British Columbia, has served as a vital hunting ground for the Tahltan nation for millennia. This unprecedented discovery has unleashed a wealth of historical insights, illuminating the rich tapestry of life in the region since approximately 5,000 B.C.
Plenty of obsidian, a volcanic glass formed from cooled lava, was found on the Kitsu Plateau. DUNCAN MCLAREN
Among the astonishing finds are containers intricately crafted from birch bark, antler ice picks, tools meticulously carved from bones, and even a well-preserved stitched boot. Perhaps the most dazzling of all is the abundance of obsidian, a volcanic glass forged from cooled lava scattered across the Kitsu Plateau. The sparkling obsidian initially mesmerized lead archaeologist Duncan McLaren and his team, but they soon learned to train their eyes to find the organic artifacts concealed among this radiant treasure.
The exceptional preservation of these artifacts owes much to their remote location, which has kept visitor numbers low and aided in their protection and conservation. As David Karn, speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Environment, aptly notes, this natural isolation has played a pivotal role in safeguarding these invaluable relics.
The stitches are still evident on birch bark container from around 2,000 years ago. DUNCAN MCLAREN
A total of 56 objects were recovered from within nine patches of ice. Carbon dating of organic materials such as digging sticks and leather items provides crucial insights into when and how these tools were fashioned and utilized. Two bark containers, believed to be around 2,000 years old, hold particular significance. One exhibits meticulous stitching that has remarkably endured the test of time. The second container presents a unique construction method, with sticks reinforcing the interior to create a sturdy basket capable of bearing heavier loads.
The discovery of a 5,000-year-old ice pick, carved from an antler, is a testament to the resourcefulness of Indigenous residents adapting to a cold, snowy environment. The antler had been intentionally sharpened and shaped for practical use, offering a window into the ingenuity of those who called this region home.
An ice pick carved from an antler was radiocarbon-dated around 4,000 to 5,000 years old. BRENDAN GRAY
Another intriguing find is a shoe described by McLaren as a moccasin-like boot, distinguished by its complex stitching and flaps. This intricate footwear underscores the ability of early Tahltan hunters to craft sophisticated items to thrive in the challenging climate of the region. Astonishingly, the design of this ancient footwear has remained remarkably consistent over millennia, highlighting its enduring utility.
The question of why these objects have surfaced now, after millennia encased in ice, can be attributed to the region's low snowpack in recent years. McLaren and his team spent over five years securing funding for this ambitious project, and their efforts have now borne fruit. As these fragile relics undergo study and preservation, plans are underway to establish a museum site in Tahltan territory where they can be safely stored and shared with the world.
A wooden walking staff with a beveled top was found on the surface of the melting ice near Goat Mountain Peak. DUNCAN MCLAREN
This remarkable discovery was a collaborative effort involving several organizations, including the Obsidian Discoveries Tahltan Tene Mehodihi Youth Group Hike. This land-based education program seeks to connect Tahltan youth with their nation's history through immersive experiences, further enriching the cultural significance of the land within Mount Edziza Park.
As we reflect on the significance of this find, it is crucial to recognize the importance of Mount Edziza to the Tahltan First Nations people. The region is not only extremely remote with a challenging climate, but it also holds immense cultural and archaeological significance. Visitors are encouraged to exercise respect, refrain from taking any objects, and remember that these artifacts are protected under provincial law.
In the heart of Canada's icy wilderness, this discovery serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring connection between humans and their environment, spanning millennia and illuminating the rich tapestry of history. It is a testament to the power of preservation, exploration, and our shared human heritage.
