Why Spartan Coins Were Much Heavier Than Those of Other Ancient Greek Cities

In ancient Sparta, nothing was left to chance. Every custom, every law, every practice served a higher purpose—discipline, self-sufficiency, and the protection of society from excess or corruption. Even Spartan currency, which today may seem like just another means of trade, was in fact one of the most powerful symbols of the city’s austerity and inward-looking values. Sparta did not wish to resemble the other city-states. It had no interest in gold, silver, or silks—and it made that abundantly clear.

Spartan coins were intentionally heavy and impractical. Made of iron instead of precious metals, these coins were bulky and difficult to transport. According to some historical accounts, they were even treated with vinegar to weaken the metal, making them brittle and unusable for melting down or resale. This was a deliberate move, serving two main purposes: to reinforce self-reliance, and to discourage the accumulation of wealth or high-value transactions that might lead to economic inequality and the rise of a wealthy elite that could threaten civic harmony.

The thinking behind this monetary policy was remarkably forward-thinking. By creating a currency so awkward and inconvenient, Sparta essentially shut down the possibility of luxury trade. Even the wealthiest merchant would struggle to carry or conceal his riches. The coin itself, by virtue of its physical burden, became a tool of social regulation and political stability.

Across the rest of the Greek world, coins were lightweight, elegant, and made from valuable materials—perfect for trade, wealth accumulation, and international commerce. But in Sparta, the very concept of wealth was viewed with suspicion, even disdain. True wealth, according to Spartan ideals, lay in virtue, military excellence, discipline, and contribution to the common good. Everything else was seen as excessive, even dangerous.

This type of currency, known as “iron money,” was not a random invention. According to the ancient writer Plutarch, it was part of the reforms of Lycurgus, Sparta’s legendary lawgiver. His legal code aimed to sever any ties to luxury or the corrupting power of money. These laws promoted collectivity, simplicity, and a deliberate inwardness—traits that made Sparta distinct among its peers.

Today, we might wonder why a society would intentionally isolate itself economically. But the answer lies in Sparta’s very identity. It was a warrior society: closed-off, hard-edged, proud, and self-reliant. Its heavy coins were more than just a medium of exchange—they were a statement:

“We don’t want your wealth. We value your character.”

Ancient Discovery on Modern Roads: 1,200-Year-Old Medieval Buckle Unearthed in Ireland

A routine highway project in Limerick, Ireland, has led to an extraordinary archaeological discovery—an intricately designed medieval buckle dating back over 1,200 years.

Uncovered by archaeologists during excavations in Ardshanbally as part of the Adare bypass construction, the buckle is a striking example of early medieval craftsmanship. Measuring just 12 centimeters long, the ornate object is made of cast brass and features deep blue glass inlay, an embossed animal motif, and abstract decorative flourishes.

From Construction Site to National Treasure

The buckle is one of more than 100 artifacts that will soon be showcased at the National Museum of Ireland in an upcoming exhibition titled “Echoes from the Wave: Ireland and St. Gallen in Early Medieval Europe.” Opening on May 29, the exhibit will explore the rich cultural exchanges between early medieval Ireland and the European continent.

Among the highlights will be manuscripts from the Abbey of St. Gall in present-day Switzerland—some of which will return to Ireland for the first time in over a millennium.

A Testament to Ancient Craftsmanship

Ireland’s Minister for Culture, Patrick O’Donovan, who visited the museum on Thursday to view the buckle and other recent finds, described the artifact as “an exceptional discovery.”

“The buckle is beautifully crafted and dates back over a thousand years. It highlights the extraordinary skill, artistry, and wealth that existed in the Limerick region even in the early medieval period,” said O’Donovan.

Lynn Scarff, Director of the National Museum of Ireland, praised the collaborative efforts behind the discovery, emphasizing how public access to cultural heritage is strengthened through responsible archaeology.

“This early medieval buckle from Ardshanbally is a perfect example of how state agencies and professional archaeologists can work together to preserve and share Ireland’s rich material heritage,” she said.

She also noted the significance of discovering the buckle in a controlled excavation context, allowing for more accurate dating of Ireland’s metallurgical traditions, particularly in the Limerick area.

Uncovering the Layers of History

The medieval buckle that was unearthed.
Photo: Fran Veale/Julien Behal Photography

This find adds to a growing list of remarkable discoveries made during the expansion of the Foynes to Limerick road. Just last year, archaeologists revealed a network of World War II-era defensive structures—roughly 300 in total—that had been built in the early years of Ireland’s wartime state of emergency, declared in 1939 to maintain the country's neutrality.

These layered discoveries—from medieval artifacts to 20th-century fortifications—paint a vivid picture of Ireland’s enduring and evolving relationship with its land, its people, and its past.

Inside the Royal Lineage of the Ottoman Empire: A Diverse Legacy of Power, Politics, and Heritage

When we think of royal dynasties, we often imagine long lines of pure ancestry and tightly controlled family trees. But the story of the Ottoman Empire’s sultans tells a far more fascinating—and multicultural—tale. Stretching from the late 13th century until the early 20th, the Ottoman Empire was a global powerhouse. Its sultans, though rooted in the Central Asian Oghuz Turkic tribes, became a living reflection of the vast and diverse empire they ruled.

The Harem: More Than a Palace Mystery

Often romanticized in art and literature, the harem was much more than a secluded part of the palace. It was, in many ways, the political heart of the empire. At its center were the sultan’s concubines—many of whom played critical roles in shaping the empire's future.

In the Ottoman world, a concubine was typically a woman who lived with a man and had a sexual relationship with him without being married. Most concubines in the imperial harem came from non-Turkic, often non-Muslim backgrounds—Greek, Serbian, Ukrainian, Polish, Italian, and more. They were either enslaved or given as part of political alliances. Because Islamic law forbids enslaving Muslims, these women were usually Christians or Jews from within the empire’s far-reaching territories.

But life in the harem was not necessarily one of passive servitude. A concubine who bore a son that eventually became sultan could ascend to a powerful position as Valide Sultan (Mother Sultan), often acting as regent and wielding considerable influence over imperial policy, court affairs, and succession.

The Evolution of the Sultans' Heritage

The first Ottoman ruler, Osman I, was fully Turkic. So was his son, Orhan. But as the empire expanded and integrated different regions, the family tree began to reflect this changing landscape.

From the third sultan onward, we see a pattern: sultans with mothers of various ethnic backgrounds. Murad I’s mother was Greek. Bayezid I also had a Greek mother. And the trend continued—Polish, Venetian, Georgian, Ukrainian, French, Hungarian, Albanian—the list is a true cultural mosaic.

By the time we arrive at the empire’s final ruler, Mehmed VI (r. 1918–1922), the once-pure Turkic lineage had become thoroughly mixed. While paternity remained in the Ottoman line, the maternal ancestry of the sultans mirrored the empire’s vast and diverse reach.

A Snapshot of Ottoman Royal Mothers’ Ethnic Origins

Here’s a glimpse into the maternal lineage of some of the empire’s most notable sultans:

• Osman I – Turkish

• Murad I – Greek

• Bayezid I – Greek

• Selim II – Polish

• Murad III & Mehmed III – Italian (Venetian)

• Ahmed I – Greek

• Mehmed IV – Ukrainian

• Ahmed II – Polish

• Mustafa III – French

• Selim III – Georgian

• Abdulhamid II – Possibly Armenian or Russian

• Mehmed VI – Georgian

This blending of cultures didn't dilute the Ottoman identity—it enhanced it. The empire’s elite were a product of centuries of diplomatic marriages, strategic alliances, and cultural integration.

More Than Bloodlines: A Symbol of Empire-Wide Influence

What this complex heritage shows is that the Ottoman Empire was never just a Turkish empire—it was a global one. Its sultans were the embodiment of a multicultural, multiethnic power that stretched across continents. From the forests of Eastern Europe to the deserts of the Middle East, and from the Black Sea to the Mediterranean, the legacy of the Ottoman dynasty is as diverse and layered as the empire itself.

In the end, the story of the sultans’ ancestry isn’t just a tale of who ruled whom. It’s a testament to how interconnected the world has always been—and how power, influence, and identity are often shaped by those quietly working behind palace walls.

5 + 2 Things You Didn't Know About the Ancient Maya Civilization

The Maya were exceptional astronomers and developed advanced calendars to track time.

The ancient Maya civilization is shrouded in mystery, yet it remains a benchmark for numerous significant achievements in mathematics, architecture, and astronomical knowledge.

Before the Spanish conquest of Mexico, the Maya had developed the most brilliant civilization in the Western Hemisphere. They practiced agriculture, were formidable warriors, built imposing pyramids and temples, and had knowledge of the concept of the number zero.

In addition, they worked with copper and gold, knew the art of weaving, and used a form of hieroglyphic writing. The roots of the Maya civilization date back to prehistoric times, beyond 2000 BC, corresponding to the Archaic period.

The Maya continue to impress and remain a subject of study for archaeologists and historians to this day.

Here are 7 things you may not know about the ancient Latin American civilization.

1. They Were Exceptional Astronomers

The Maya were exceptional astronomers and developed advanced calendars for tracking time. They had a cyclical perception of time and believed that at the end of each pictun cycle (about 7,885 years), the world would be destroyed and recreated. This belief caused confusion thirteen years ago when some incorrectly interpreted the Maya calendar, claiming that the world would end on December 21, 2012.

However, scientists pointed out that the calendar used by the ancient civilization did not predict the end of the world—it simply marked the end of one cycle and the beginning of another. The Maya also used the Tzolkin calendar (260 days) and the Haab calendar (365 days, divided into 18 months of 20 days and one month of 5 days), which allowed them to predict solar and lunar eclipses with great accuracy. The Maya often determined dates by using both calendars together. Dates in this form would only repeat every 52 solar years.

2. Their Complex Writing System

The Maya developed one of the most complex writing systems of the ancient world, using a form of hieroglyphic writing. For centuries, scientists struggled to decipher it, as it combined symbols representing entire words and syllables.

In the mid-20th century, Russian linguist Yuri Knorozov and other researchers managed to understand their distinctive writing system. Today, scientists can read most of the surviving Maya texts, revealing details about their history, religion, and daily life.

3. They Used Zero in Mathematics

The concept of zero was unknown to most ancient civilizations, but the Maya had invented a special symbol for zero, resembling a shell. Their numerical system was based on the vigesimal system (base 20). Thanks to this innovation, they were able to perform complex calculations, primarily for astronomical and calendrical purposes.

4. They Were Made Up of Independent City-States

Unlike other great civilizations like the Aztecs and Incas, the Maya did not have a single state with a central ruler. Instead, they were made up of independent city-states, such as Tikal, located in the tropical forest of northern Guatemala, Palenque (formerly known as Lacamha), and Copán, in western Honduras.

Each city had its own king (known as Kʼuhul ajaw), who was considered a "divine leader" and ruled with the help of nobles and priests.

5. They Practiced Painful Infant Skull Modifications

The Maya regarded elongated skulls as a symbol of beauty and prestige. To achieve this, they placed special wooden frames on infants' heads, pressing their skulls to give them an elongated shape. This practice was particularly common among the upper social classes and likely had religious significance, as the Maya associated elongated skulls with the forms of their gods.

6. Most Cities Were Abandoned Before the Spanish Conquest

Although the Spanish conquest contributed to the collapse of the Maya civilization, many of their great cities had already been abandoned centuries earlier. The reasons for the decline of the cities (around 800-1000 AD) remain uncertain, but scientists speculate that it was due to a mix of political and environmental factors (such as drought, climate change, and internal conflicts).

However, the Maya civilization never fully disappeared. Most modern Maya live in Guatemala, Belize, and the western parts of Honduras and El Salvador, as well as large sections of the Mexican states of Yucatán, Campeche, Quintana Roo, Tabasco, and Chiapas.

7. They Played a Ball Game Without Using Their Hands

The Maya played a complex ball game (known as pok-ta-pok or pitz) in large arenas. Players could use all parts of their bodies (elbows, shoulders) but not their hands to bounce a heavy rubber ball (estimated to weigh 4 kg), trying to pass it through a stone ring positioned vertically on the sides of the arena.

The game had religious and political dimensions, and in some cases, the losers might have been sacrificed to the gods.

The Maya civilization continues to intrigue and educate, leaving behind remarkable achievements that still captivate us today.

Significant Ancient Mausoleum with Gladiator Inscription Discovered in Italy

An important ancient mausoleum featuring a gladiator inscription has been discovered in Italy, shedding new light on the rich history of the region.

Aerial photography of the excavation site in Italy, Metropolitan Archaeology Supervision of the Naples Area.

A noteworthy necropolis has been unearthed in southern Italy, specifically in the Campania region. Excavations at the well-known Roman colony of Liternum revealed this necropolis, which includes the tomb of a gladiator, complete with an inscription dedicated to him.

The mausoleum with the inscription is located in the present-day municipality of Giuliano in Campania. The site dates back to the first century BC and was used as a final resting place for prominent gladiators.

According to a statement from the Archaeological Supervision of the Metropolitan Area of Naples, the evaluation of the site and the recovery of coins, lamps, and ceramics has provided new insights into how burial customs evolved throughout the history of the Roman Empire.

The necropolis at Liternum consisted of two burial enclosures, covering a total area of about 450 square meters, surrounded by white and gray boulders with red details.

The deceased were buried in various ways, including urn burials within approximately 20 plastered niches, large ossuaries, and enclosures on the floor sealed with roof tiles.

Among the discoveries were several marble cenotaphs, some of which remained intact, as well as the cenotaph of the gladiator with the corresponding inscription. The latter highlights the value and remembrance of these fighters in Roman society, according to a statement from the Archaeological Supervision.

The cenotaph in the Campania region, Metropolitan Area of Naples Archaeological Supervision.

The cenotaph in the Campania area. Photo credit: Archaeological Supervision of the Metropolitan Area of Naples.

Its presence at Liternum suggests that the city was home to gladiators who, after their glorious careers in the arena, found their resting place there.

"The Giuliano area is experiencing an extraordinary period of discoveries, first with the tomb of Cerberus and now with this necropolis," said Superintendent Mariano Nuccio. "The quality of the structures and their excellent state of preservation enrich our understanding of the history of the Liternum colony and deepen the study of the socio-cultural context of the time."

Excavations are ongoing, and it is likely that more findings will emerge, shedding further light on Liternum’s location along the Via Domitiana, a road that led from Rome to Campania and was known to be lined with tombs.

Smithsonian: Director of the African American Museum Resigns Following Pressure from Republicans

Kevin Young, director of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, has resigned after four years in the position, according to an announcement from the museum.

In the statement, the museum noted that Young expressed his desire to focus on his writing career. He remains a poetry editor at The New Yorker.

His departure comes at a time when former President Donald Trump has targeted the Smithsonian institution and the National Museum of African American History and Culture with an executive order. However, Young had already taken a leave of absence prior to the issuance of the order – The Washington Post reported that he took personal leave on March 14.

The original leave was reportedly for an indefinite period, according to the Post. In recent weeks, Sanita Brackett, the museum’s deputy director of operations, had been serving as interim director. On Friday, the museum confirmed Young’s departure.

“We remain committed to telling the multifaceted stories of this country’s remarkable heritage,” said Kevin Young.

Kevin Young’s Appointment and Tenure
When Young was appointed in 2020, he was the director of the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, part of the New York Public Library, and poetry editor at The New Yorker. He began working at the museum in 2021 and continued as poetry editor at The New Yorker throughout his tenure, never taking a leave of absence from the magazine.

The museum, which opened in 2016, was built on the National Mall with the mission to tell the story of African Americans to the American public. Young was the second director of the museum, succeeding Lonnie Bunch, who became the Smithsonian’s secretary in 2019, the institution’s highest position.

Trump’s Executive Order
At the Smithsonian, Young found himself leading an institution facing both political and academic challenges. Last month, President Trump issued an executive order calling for the reorganization of the Smithsonian, aiming to transform it into a “symbol of inspiration and American greatness.” The order specifically singled out the African American History Museum, sparking speculation that it could face particular scrutiny from the government.

In the order titled “Restoring Truth and Logic in American History,” Trump targeted what he described as a “revisionist movement” across the country, which “seeks to undermine the remarkable achievements of the United States by casting its founding principles and historical landmarks in a negative light.”

The order argued that the Smithsonian, in particular, had been “influenced by a divisive, race-centered ideology” and promoted “narratives that present American and Western values as inherently harmful and oppressive.”

Lonnie Bunch and Future Pressures
The executive order presents a challenge for Bunch, who was not informed of the decision beforehand. While he has not publicly commented, he sent an email to Smithsonian employees last week expressing his intent to remain steadfast, saying, “We remain committed to telling the multifaceted stories of this country’s remarkable heritage.”

Indications of the pressure Bunch might face from the Trump administration in the future surfaced when White House Communications Director Steven Chang referred to Bunch as a “failure” in a statement earlier this week, according to The New York Times.

“Leftist Indoctrination”
The museum opened with strong bipartisan support, but it has faced criticism from some Republicans, as race and diversity are contentious issues. In a 2023 Congressional hearing with Bunch, some Republicans accused the Smithsonian of “leftist indoctrination.”

During Bunch’s tenure, the museum organized a series of high-profile exhibitions with strong artistic and cultural significance, including “Reckoning,” an exhibition on Black art and protest that opened in 2021, and “Afrofuturism,” which opened in 2023.

Sources: New York Times, New York Post

1,500-Year-Old Mosaic Discovered in Abandoned Byzantine Monastery – Greek Inscription and Rural Dwelling

In a remarkable archaeological find, a 1,500-year-old Byzantine monastery, remarkably well-preserved, and an impressive mosaic in its chapel have been uncovered by archaeologists. Along with other important finds, such as a Greek inscription, the discoveries provide invaluable insights into life in the 6th century.

A recent excavation report released by the Israel Antiquities Authority revealed the discovery of a well-preserved Byzantine-era monastery and a rural dwelling in the Naḥal Peḥar area, in what is now the Giv‘ot Bar settlement, south of Be'er Sheva.

According to Nir-Shimshon Paran, the lead archaeologist of the excavation, "The monastery is exceptionally well-preserved and offers a glimpse into the daily lives of the monks in the Negev Desert during the Byzantine period. It featured rudimentary mosaic floors, which may have been laid by the monks themselves."

"Most of the finds in the monastery were discovered on the floors, revealing the site's abandonment during the later Byzantine period and the early Umayyad Caliphate (6th to 7th century AD)," Paran notes.

The archaeologists believe the monastery was likely abandoned as the region transitioned to the early Islamic period, due to diminished security. The monastery complex includes a chapel, a dining hall, kitchen, auxiliary wings, and a wine press. "The main building had sturdy walls, giving it the appearance of a fortified structure," the excavation study explains.

The Greek Inscription

Archaeologists discovered a well-preserved Byzantine monastery in Israel. (Source: Israel Antiquities Authority).

One of the most striking discoveries was a unique mosaic found in the chapel. "At the center of the mosaic, there is a Maltese Cross, and beneath it, within a frame, is a three-line Greek inscription that names the monastery and four monks who lived there," the study explains.

Nearby rooms contain evidence of the daily life of the monastery. Paran notes that a conical hollow in the mosaic may have been used to hold vessels. Among the finds, there are ceramics dating to 460–475 AD and a pot from the late 5th to 7th century.

In an arched area lined with stones, two tombs were uncovered. "At the eastern edge of the southern tomb, a cross was engraved," according to Paran. "Other objects, such as a fallen shrine façade pillar, a copper hook, chains, and glass oil lamps, suggest that the area was used for functional purposes."

Wine Production Workshop and Inscriptions

The kitchen was identified by a 10-centimeter-thick layer of ash, indicating that it was a cooking area, complete with tables. "Under the table, the lower half of a storage jar was sunk into the floor, possibly used as an oven (ṭabun)," the study reports.

The monastery also housed a wine production workshop. "In the northeastern part of the auxiliary sections, a winepress floor (5.7 × 6.0 m) was uncovered, sloping to the south." The excavation revealed a plastered trench for fermentation and settling of the must, as well as a possible storage tank.

The discovered inscriptions include two epitaphs written in red-brown ink, verifying that the site was used for burial.

The Rural Dwelling

A Greek inscription names the monastery and four monks. (Photo: Israel Antiquities Authority).

Archaeologists also uncovered a rural dwelling from the same period, located just south of the monastery. One structure included a rectangular watchtower with a small room. On the floor, a coin was found dating to the first half of the 6th century AD.

"The monastery and the farmhouse were contemporary... it seems that both structures were abandoned at the end of the Byzantine period (late 6th to early 7th century AD)," Paran notes.

The findings were published in volume 116 of the journal Atiqot by the Israel Antiquities Authority.

This discovery sheds light on the monastic life of the desert in the region over 1,400 years ago, offering valuable evidence of the daily lives of the monks who lived there during the Byzantine period.

A 2,900-Year-Old Stele Reveals the Roots of Greek Mythology – The Storm God Standing on a Bull

In 1987, O. Günay made a chance discovery of a significant archaeological find while plowing his field near the village of Yurtlak, just a few kilometers west of the city of Erzin in Turkey's Hatay province, with Antioch as its capital.

The remarkable find, a basalt stele cataloged as number 17183 in the Hatay Archaeological Museum, is broken in two but still retains its historical and artistic value, providing valuable insights into ancient mythologies.

The Erzin Stele and Its Symbolism

The base of the Erzin stele features a protrusion, indicating that it was originally positioned horizontally on a pedestal, adding depth to its architectural context.

With this protrusion, the stele stands at an impressive height of 0.96 meters, with a width of 0.46 meters and a thickness of 0.16 meters.

The front of the stele depicts a highly weathered bas-relief of the Storm God in his characteristic stance, standing imposingly on a bull.

In his left hand, the god holds a double axe, a symbol of strength and power, while in his right hand, he wields a lightning bolt, representing his divine connection to storms and weather.

The Storm God

Sketch of the stele. Photo: Ensert, et al., 2008.

A unique feature of this depiction is that the god is grasping a snake by the neck, a deviation from the traditional representations of the Storm God.

The body of the snake coils around the god, with its tail rising toward the left side, suggesting a dynamic struggle between the two figures.

This scene likely represents the battle between the Storm God and the serpent, a motif that appears in both Anatolian and Syrian mythology.

The struggle between the Storm God and the serpent is a recurring theme in the myths of the ancient Near East, symbolizing the conflict between order and chaos.

Common Mythological Motifs of the Hurrians and Hittites

In the Hurrian myth of Hedammu, a giant serpent named Hedammu lives in the ocean and is eventually defeated by the Storm God, who is associated with fertility and rain. Similarly, the myth of the Hittite serpent-dragon Illuyanka tells of a serpent that must be vanquished by the Storm God, highlighting the significance of this motif in the region's mythology.

Embodiment of Nature's Elements

Above the Storm God, a partially damaged symbol of a winged sun disk is visible, emphasizing his divine nature and connection to celestial forces.

This specific iconography is significant because it links the Storm God with solar deities, a common practice in ancient cultures where gods embodied multiple aspects of nature.

The presence of the disk and the winged sun suggests a possible connection to later Greek mythology, where similar motifs appear, particularly in the representations of gods such as the Sun and Apollo.

Experts date the stele to the 9th or 8th century BCE, situating it in a crucial period of ancient history characterized by the flourishing of the Hittite civilization and its interactions with neighboring cultures.

The Hittites are known for their rich mythology and complex pantheon, and the stele serves as a valuable artifact shedding light on their beliefs and artistic expressions.

The Transition from Hittite to Greek Mythology

Photo: ENSERT, H., Görmüş, A., & Kara, D. (2008). The Stele of Erzin. Adalya, (11).

The transition from Hittite mythological themes to Greek culture is particularly noteworthy, as it underscores the cultural interactions of the region over time.

The discovery of the Erzin stele highlights the importance of archaeological study in uncovering the rich mosaic of human history.

Each artifact tells a story, just like the stele.

It invites us to reflect on the beliefs, struggles, and artistic achievements of our ancestors, reminding us of the timeless legacy of ancient civilizations. As scholars and history enthusiasts delve into the significance of these finds, we are constantly reminded of the interaction of human experience across time and space.

The Erzin Stele stands out as a bridge between the past and the present, inspiring us to think about the narratives and myths that have shaped our worldview to this day.

The continuous study of artifacts such as the Erzin stele enriches our knowledge of ancient societies while inspiring us to admire the complexities of human faith and creativity throughout history.

As we explore the connections between Hittite and Greek mythologies, we gain a deeper appreciation for how the ancients understood the world and the divine forces that influenced their lives.

Finally, the Erzin Stele is not just another artifact.

It is proof of the rich mythological traditions of the ancient Near East and their enduring influence on later cultures, including the Greek civilization.

The themes of struggle, power, and divine intervention depicted on the stele remain timeless, reminding us of the collective human experience in grappling with the forces of nature and the unknown.

As we continue to uncover and study such artifacts, we enrich our understanding of the past and its relationship with the present and future.

The Garden of Pythia: An Immersive Art Installation Merging Ancient History and Artificial Intelligence at the Delphi Archaeological Site

In an innovative blend of ancient Greek heritage and modern technology, Charles Sandison’s latest art installation, The Garden of Pythia (Ο Κήπος της Πυθίας), takes center stage at Delphi. This monumental project, commissioned by the PCAI (Global Center for Circular Economy and Culture), draws inspiration from the ancient Oracle of Delphi and its mystical association with the Pythia, the priestess who conveyed prophetic messages.

The immersive installation will debut at the Delphi Economic Forum on April 9, 2025, with Sandison himself in attendance.

A Tribute to Delphi’s Rich Legacy

Charles Sandison, Garden of Pythia (Ο Κήπος της Πυθίας), 2025 (work in progress) Kindly provided by the artist. New commission by PCAI.

Inspired by the sacred site of the Oracle of Delphi, The Garden of Pythia invites viewers into an evolving fusion of history, art, and technology. Located at the foot of Mount Parnassus, the installation pays homage to the famous Temple of Apollo, integrating visual references to ancient texts, inscriptions, and sculptures with cutting-edge data from local geology, flora, and fauna.

The projections within the garden interact dynamically with their surroundings, creating a seamless blend of ancient history and modern innovation. The installation offers an opportunity for audiences to explore artificial intelligence (AI) concepts, framing them within the historical context of humanity’s ongoing quest for knowledge and understanding.

From Ancient Prophecies to Modern Computation

Charles Sandison, Garden of Pythia (Ο Κήπος της Πυθίας), 2025 (work in progress) Courtesy of the artist. New commission by PCAI.

Sandison’s vision was sparked during a visit to the Delphi archaeological site. Reflecting on the Oracle’s role as a conduit for prophecy, he drew a parallel between the ancient practice of divination and modern computational systems. Just as the Oracle’s sacred rituals guided travelers seeking answers, today’s technology, including AI, serves as a modern method of understanding and interpreting complex data.

For Sandison, the Oracle of Delphi was akin to CERN—a highly sophisticated system used to predict outcomes and explore the mysteries of the universe. He sees both as tools for deeper understanding, echoing the relationship between ancient wisdom and contemporary advancements in AI.

In The Garden of Pythia, the process of inquiry is central. The installation emphasizes that the questions humanity has asked throughout history, whether through language, symbols, or numbers, reflect our ongoing desire to acquire and preserve knowledge.

Bridging the Ancient and Modern

For Sandison, the historical Delphic site was analogous to CERN, the most advanced system for interpreting and predicting goals and outcomes.

According to Sandison, The Garden of Pythia serves as a symbolic bridge between the ancient and the modern. As visitors move through the installation, they will encounter data projections that evolve in response to environmental factors such as light and temperature. This dynamic interaction invites them to experience how the digital world of AI can mirror the ancient search for answers.

"I believe visitors will see this work of art as a bridge between the ancient and the modern," said Sandison. "The answers we seek from artificial intelligence today are not unlike the questions asked of the Pythia in ancient times."

A Vision of AI in Harmony with Nature

The work The Garden of Pythia by Sandison is equipped with specially designed code and sensors that detect temperature and light levels, allowing the installation to interact with the local environment.

The installation’s sensory technology—carefully designed to respond to changes in temperature and light—ensures that The Garden of Pythia will evolve over time, much like the knowledge it seeks to convey. The immersive artwork invites viewers to reflect on humanity’s relationship with both nature and technology, highlighting the need for sustainable practices and deepening our understanding of the world.

"The Garden of Pythia is a fantastical space placed partly on the slopes of Mount Parnassus in ancient Greece and partly within the matrix of my computer," Sandison explains. "Drawing inspiration from my visit to the Temple of Apollo, I have encoded this AI art piece that combines the memories of the Pythia with the beauty of the Parnassus slopes through data projections that evolve in conjunction with their environment."

Collaborative Art and Environmental Awareness

"I believe that visitors will see this artwork as a bridge between the ancient and the modern."

In collaboration with the sound artist Kostadis Michail, The Garden of Pythia will also feature a newly created sound installation, enhancing the sensory experience for visitors. The exhibit will open to the public from April 13, 2025, on select days—Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays after sunset—according to the seasonal schedule.

Exhibition Details:

• Opening: April 9, 2025, 8:00 PM

• Entry Fee: 10 euros

• Venue: P, Global Center for Circular Economy and Culture (Former Pavilion of Pikionis), Delphi

• Public Viewing: From April 13, 2025, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays after sunset (seasonal schedule applies)

About Charles Sandison

"From April 13th, the exhibition will be open to the public every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday after sunset (according to the applicable seasonal schedule)."

Charles Sandison is an internationally renowned artist, known for his computer-generated video projections and immersive data installations. Born in Haltwhistle, Northumberland, and raised in Wick, Caithness, Sandison has developed a unique approach that blends art with technology. His work aims to bridge the digital world with human consciousness, creating experiences that immerse viewers in a dynamic universe of words, symbols, and characters.

"Opening: April 9th, 8:00 PM."

Sandison has exhibited extensively, including at the Venice Biennale and Lisson Gallery in London, and he was awarded the prestigious Ars Fennica Prize in 2010.

For more information on Sandison, visit sandison.fi.

About PCAI and Polygreen

PCAI, founded by Athanasios Polychronopoulos, CEO of the environmental company Polygreen, is a cultural organization focused on environmental awareness through contemporary art. The organization supports significant cultural initiatives, such as the Venice Biennale and Sharjah Biennale, and collaborates with major global institutions to promote sustainable practices and environmental responsibility.

Polygreen’s environmental initiatives, including the transformative Just Go Zero project on the Greek island of Tilos, demonstrate a commitment to circular economy solutions and sustainable development. The recent renovation of the Pikionis Pavilion, now the Global Center for Circular Economy and Culture, embodies the organization’s dedication to integrating art, culture, and environmental sustainability.

The Abandoned Island off the Turkish Coast, Where Archaeologists Believe St. Nicholas Was First Buried

Off the coast of Turkey, near the modern city of Fethiye, lies the abandoned island of St. Nicholas, as it was known to sailors during the medieval period.

Archaeologists believe that this small island is where the first burial of St. Nicholas took place, from which the island derived its name.

On the island, visitors can find ruins of collapsed buildings and the remnants of five churches built between the 4th and 6th centuries AD, during the Byzantine period. There are also over fifty Christian graves.

The island likely served as a stopping point for Christian pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land.

Archaeologists estimate that after his death in 326 AD, St. Nicholas was buried in a church carved into the rock at the highest point of the island, at the westernmost end of a 350-meter-long walking trail.

His relics are believed to have remained there until the 650s AD when the island was abandoned due to the threat of raids by the Arab fleet. His remains were then moved to Myra in Lycia, about 40 kilometers to the east, where St. Nicholas served as bishop.

The Turkish name of the island is "Gemiler Adası," meaning "Island of Ships," which could refer to St. Nicholas' role as the patron saint of sailors.

The island is no longer a pilgrimage site, as the churches are now in ruins following the destruction of Asia Minor and the expulsion of Greeks from the East.

However, the island still attracts numerous tourists during the summer months, arriving on large Turkish sailboats (gulets) as well as smaller private vessels. The bay has a crescent shape and serves as a safe anchorage.

Additionally, the island features an improvised restaurant, open only during the tourist season, where visitors can enjoy traditional Turkish dishes.

Archaeologists Discover Ancient Egyptian Tomb of a Mysterious King

A newly uncovered ancient Egyptian tomb sheds light on a royal family that once ruled the area 3,600 years ago.

In January, archaeologists uncovered a massive limestone burial chamber featuring multiple rooms and an intricately decorated entrance at Abydos, Egypt. However, the intended occupant of this lavish tomb remains a mystery. The tomb's hieroglyphic inscriptions, painted on bricks at the entrance, had been deliberately destroyed by tomb robbers, rendering the name illegible, according to a press release issued on March 27 by the Penn Museum at the University of Pennsylvania.

The impressive tomb contained no skeletal remains that could assist in identifying its owner. However, the researchers who made the discovery believe that it likely belongs to a king who ruled Upper Egypt during the Second Intermediate Period, between 1640 and 1540 BC, as part of the Abydos Dynasty—one of the least understood dynasties in ancient Egyptian history. The enigmatic king might be one of many whose names are missing from the traditional records of monarchs who once governed the region.

"This is a very mysterious, enigmatic dynasty that seems to have been essentially forgotten by ancient Egyptian records, as it existed during a time of political decline and fragmentation," said Josef Wegner, Egyptologist and professor of Egyptian archaeology at the University of Pennsylvania, who led the excavation. "This mysterious tomb... opens up a new avenue of research (for the Abydos dynasty)."

The tomb is the largest known from any ruler of the same dynasty, shedding light on a previously misunderstood period of history that may only be uncovered through material remains, experts say.

The Lost Pharaoh

Archaeologists found the tomb nearly 7 meters (23 feet) below the ground, located at an ancient necropolis or "City of the Dead." This necropolis lies at the foot of the Anubis Mountain at Abydos, a pyramid-shaped natural formation revered by ancient Egyptians and used to conceal the tombs built beneath it.

Historically, Abydos is known as a sacred city and the final resting place of Osiris, the god of the underworld, and the preferred burial site for early pharaohs. The necropolis developed over the centuries, as successive dynasties built tombs and buried their kings in this royal cemetery.

Over a decade ago, Wegner and his team discovered the first tomb within this necropolis that confirmed the existence of the Abydos dynasty, a ruling line first proposed in 1997 by Egyptologist Kim Ryholt. Ryholt believed the smaller dynasty ruled the Abydos region during a time when ancient Egypt had split into rival kingdoms.

The owner of that first tomb, King Seneb-Kay, was an entirely unknown pharaoh never mentioned in historical records. Of the eight tombs of the dynasty discovered so far, Seneb-Kay's is the only one found with a name preserved in the burial chamber.

The recently discovered tomb is architecturally and decoratively similar but much larger than Seneb-Kay’s. The main chamber of the crypt, with three rooms, measures about 1.9 meters in width and 6 meters in length. Since the tomb was built in an earlier section of the necropolis, researchers believe the wealthy king buried there was likely a predecessor to Seneb-Kay.

Scientists suspect that the tomb may belong to King Senayib or King Paenjeni, two monarchs represented in the scant archaeological record of the dynasty, part of a dedicated monument at Abydos.

"It’s equally possible that this could belong to a completely unknown king," Wegner, who is also the curator of the Egyptian section of the Penn Museum, said. "We don’t think we have all the names (of the Abydos kings)—the evidence has not been consistently preserved for them."

While no clues were found that could help identify the previous occupant of the freshly unearthed burial chamber, the tomb still features two painted images of the goddesses Isis and Nephthys, who were commonly depicted in funerary rituals as mourning the deceased.

Expanding the Search

The researchers plan to explore approximately 10,000 square meters (over 100,000 square feet) of desert land in the area in an effort to uncover more tombs, Wegner stated. "There could easily be 12 or 15 kings that make up this group of rulers," he said.

In addition to further excavation, the team will survey the area using ground-penetrating radar, a technology that uses sound waves to map structures beneath the Earth's surface, as well as magnetometry, which creates maps of subsurface structures that have magnetic signatures.

"The discovery of another ruler from the Abydos dynasty is incredibly exciting," said Salima Ikram, a distinguished professor of Egyptology at the American University in Cairo, in an email. "It proves that there was an important royal... cemetery here from that time, provides us with more details on the royal architecture of tombs, (and) gives us a clue about the members of this dynasty and the order in which they ruled."

Although Ikram was not involved in the discovery of the burial chamber, she expressed hope that future excavations would yield more tombs to help further our understanding of this once obscure period in Egyptian history.

Rewriting Ancient Egyptian History

The kings of the Abydos dynasty, like Seneb-Kay, are unique because they do not appear in the royal lists once maintained by the ancient Egyptians.

"The Egyptian kings liked to present their history as simple and linear, and they recorded the names (of the kings) in sequence. These kings aren’t there. So, if we look at this kind of rigid historical record, there’s no place for these kings," said Laurel Bestock, an Egyptologist and associate professor of archaeology at Brown University in Rhode Island. Bestock was not involved in the discovery of the new tomb.

"When we find these monuments, it shows us how inadequate this rigid, linear historical record is—it was really written not to be accurate but to support a particular view of later kings who came and reunited Egypt," she added. "They wrote about themselves as great conquerors who won national wars, and they just somehow ignored all the smaller players."

Discoveries like this latest Abydos tomb are "incredibly exciting" because they provide the context for a richer history, regardless of whether the identity of this king is revealed, noted Bestock.

So far, the king to whom the burial chamber belonged remains a mystery, but Wegner aims to one day identify the ruler to help anchor him in the historical timeline. "With archaeology, you hope for evidence," Wegner said. "The archaeological record, you know, gives you surprises and twists along the way, so you never know what you might find."

Roadworks Lead to Discovery of 9th-Century Caves – The Hidden Underground City Revealed

While carrying out roadworks, workers stumbled upon a remarkable discovery—caves dating back to the 9th century, uncovering a hidden underground city that had long been buried beneath the surface.

Nottingham, the picturesque city in England’s East Midlands, is known for its connection to the legend of Robin Hood. Beyond its folklore and traditions, the city is home to the largest network of caves in the United Kingdom, hand-carved into the soft sandstone bedrock, dating back to as early as the 9th century.

The caves were first mentioned by the Welsh monk of St. David’s Dyfed, who described the area as “the place with the caves”—“Tig Guocobauc” (in Old Breton), in his work The Life of King Alfred (893 AD).

"Many Caves Have Been Sealed or Buried Beneath the City"

As Nottingham expanded, many cave entrances were sealed or buried—a process that accelerated with the St. Mary’s Preservation Act of 1845, which prohibited renting cellars and caves to the poor.

In 2009, when Nottingham City Council began the official mapping of the cave network, only 425 caves were known.

Since then, extensive research and exploration, led by archaeologist Scott Lomax, have almost doubled the number of recorded caves.

"Over 1,000 Caves Have Been Recorded"

“Through research and archaeological explorations, we’ve found more caves than we expected—some of which we thought had been destroyed due to 20th-century urban development projects,” explained Scott Lomax.

“With ongoing efforts, I’m confident that we will eventually exceed 1,000 recorded caves,” he added.

“It’s important to know where the caves in Nottingham are located so we can protect them during urban development, and where possible, make them accessible and put them to use.”

The caves are a vital part of the city’s history. By recognizing them, we ensure their protection, rather than allowing them to be overlooked or destroyed.

The Latest Cave Discovery During Roadworks

The most recent cave discovery occurred during roadworks at the former site of the Bass Brewery distribution point, Ratcliffe & Gretton, in Burton-on-Trent.

The cave stretches 17 meters long and 4 meters wide. Workers reached it with a pole, unveiling yet another piece of Nottingham's rich underground heritage.

Ancient DNA from 7,000-Year-Old Mummies in the Sahara Sheds Light on Their Origins

Ancient DNA extracted from mummies found in the Sahara Desert provides a unique insight into the peoples of the region.

Today, the view from the Takarkori rock complex in southwestern Libya reveals endless sandy dunes and barren rocks, but 7,000 years ago, this area of the Sahara was a much greener and more hospitable place, as reported by CNN.

Now, scientists aiming to understand the origins of the inhabitants of the "Green Sahara" say they have succeeded in recovering the first complete genomes—detailed genetic information—from the remains of two women buried at Takarkori.

In ancient times, the region was a lush savannah with trees, permanent lakes, and rivers that supported large animals such as hippos and elephants. It also hosted early human communities, including 15 women and children who were buried at the rocky shelter, living off fish and raising sheep and goats.

The First DNA from the Sahara

"We started with these two skeletons because they are very well preserved—the skin, ligaments, tissues," said Savino di Lernia, co-author of the new study published on Wednesday in Nature.

The findings mark the first time that archaeologists have managed to sequence entire genomes from human remains found in such a hot and dry environment, explained Di Lernia, associate professor of African archaeology and ethnoarchaeology at the Sapienza University of Rome.

The genomic analysis revealed surprising results, showing that the inhabitants of the Green Sahara were an unknown and isolated population that likely lived in the area for tens of thousands of years.

Mummies Unveil Secrets of the Sahara’s Past

The excavation of the Takarkori rock complex, accessible only by 4x4 vehicles, began in 2003, with the two mummies being among the first discoveries. "We found the first mummy on the second day of the excavation," recalled Di Lernia. "We cleared the sand and found the lower jaw."

The small community that settled in the rock shelter likely migrated there during the first great wave of human migration from Africa around 50,000 years ago. Co-author of the study, Harald Ringbauer, stated that it was unusual to encounter such an isolated genetic lineage, especially when compared to Europe, where there was much more mixing.

Ringbauer, a researcher and head of the ancient genomics group at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzig, Germany, has pioneered techniques for extracting genetic material from ancient bones and fossils.

This genetic isolation, the study's authors noted, suggests that the region was unlikely to have been a migration corridor connecting Sub-Saharan Africa with North Africa, despite the hospitable conditions in the Sahara at the time.

Not Related to Near Eastern Pastoralists

Earlier analyses of cave paintings and animal remains found in archaeological sites across the Sahara suggested that its inhabitants were pastoralists who grazed sheep, goats, or cattle, which led some researchers to hypothesize that pastoralism spread from the Near East, where agriculture began.

However, such migration seemed unlikely given the genetic isolation of the Takarkori group, the authors of the new report suggested.

Instead, the research team hypothesized that pastoralism was adopted through a process of cultural exchange, such as interactions with other groups already practicing animal husbandry.

They Were Traders Too

"We now know that they were genetically isolated, but not culturally. There are many networks we know of from various parts of the continent, because we have ceramics from Sub-Saharan Africa. We have ceramics from the Nile Valley and other similar places," said Di Lernia.

"They had this kind of genealogy, which is quite ancestral, pointing to some kind of Pleistocene heritage that needs to be explored," he said, referring to the period that ended around 11,000 years ago before the current Holocene epoch.

Agreement Among Scientists

Louise Humphrey, head of research at the Human Evolution Research Centre at the Natural History Museum in London, agreed with the study's findings: the Takarkori people were largely genetically isolated for thousands of years, and pastoralism in the region was established through cultural diffusion, not the replacement of one population by another.

"The DNA extracted from two pastoralist women who were buried at the rock shelter around 7,000 years ago reveals that most of their ancestry can be traced to a previously unknown ancient genetic lineage of North Africa," Humphrey stated.

While she was not involved in the study, she has worked at the Taforalt Cave in eastern Morocco, where hunter-gatherers from 15,000 years ago were buried.

"Future research that integrates archaeological and genomic data is likely to provide further insights into human migrations and cultural changes in the region," Humphrey said.

Low Rates of Inbreeding Indicate a Healthy Population

Christopher Stojanowski, a bioarchaeologist and professor at Arizona State University, said one of the most interesting findings of the study was the "conclusion of a moderately sized population with no evidence of inbreeding."

"The fact that there were minimal signs of inbreeding suggests a degree of movement and connectivity, which also contrasts with the idea of a long-term, disconnected population of the Green Sahara," Stojanowski added, who was not involved in the study.

Recovering Ancient DNA is Rare

Experts have studied the skeletons and artifacts found in the region over the years, but efforts to recover DNA from the remains had proven elusive.

In 2019, scientists managed to recover mitochondrial DNA, which traces the maternal lineage, but this did not provide the full picture, according to Ringbauer.

"A few years ago, the samples were sent to Leipzig, because in recent years we have been using new methods to extract more from a very small amount of DNA, and the samples had very little DNA," Ringbauer said, who uses computational tools to analyze genetic data.

$160 Million Nazi-Hidden Gold Treasure Unearthed After 50 Years Underground

The Traveller Collection: A Hidden Legacy Set to Rewrite Numismatic History

Known as The Traveller Collection, this extraordinary hoard is poised to transform the narrative of historical coin collecting.

The story begins in the aftermath of the 1929 Wall Street Crash. A European collector and his wife embarked on a decades-long journey across Europe and the Americas with a singular mission: to gather the rarest and most historically significant coins in existence. Each piece was meticulously documented, building a careful record of provenance.

But as World War II loomed and Nazi forces advanced, the collector made a bold decision. Rather than risk losing his life’s work, he buried the collection. Packed in cigar boxes and aluminum canisters, the entire treasure was sealed underground—and its guardian vanished into history.

The $160 Million Collection Emerges from the Shadows

More than 50 years later, the collector’s descendants have recovered the treasure and brought it to light. The renowned auction house Numismatica Ars Classica (NAC) is preparing to unveil it, with the first auction slated for May 20, 2025. According to NAC director Arturo Russo, this is “the most valuable numismatic collection ever brought to auction in its entirety.”

The auction is expected to be a landmark event in high-end coin collecting. Many of the coins are so rare they haven’t been seen in over 80 years—some were never even officially recorded in numismatic archives.

Crown Jewels of Coinage: Gold Giants of Europe’s Royal Dynasties

Among the standout pieces is the legendary 100-ducat gold coin of Ferdinand III of Habsburg (1629). Weighing a staggering 348.5 grams of pure gold, it's one of the largest gold coins ever minted in Europe and is valued at approximately $1.35 million USD.

Another gem is the 70-ducat coin of Polish King Sigismund III (1621), weighing 243 grams and estimated at $471,700 USD.

These are not mere collector’s items—they are tangible monuments to history, encapsulating the legacies of royal dynasties and geopolitical upheavals in solid gold.

2025 Auction to Showcase Coins Never Before Seen in Recorded History

The first sale in May 2025 will focus on British milled coinage, spanning monarchs from Charles II to George VI. The initial wave will be on public display throughout April at NAC’s London headquarters.

This is the beginning of a three-year series of auctions, with each phase revealing new layers of this once-buried legacy. With over 100 regions represented and a collection so well-preserved, it’s expected to draw intense global interest from historians and elite collectors alike.

A Living Time Capsule

More than a treasure trove, The Traveller Collection is a historical time capsule. It reflects not only one man’s passionate pursuit but also the turbulent eras it survived—the Great Depression, World War II, and the long silence that followed.

Each coin tells a story of personal obsession, historical resilience, and the mysterious journeys that treasures sometimes take—vanishing into legend only to return decades later.

Now, as the collection heads to auction, it transforms from a buried myth into a living legacy—reviving coins that once held empires together and reminding the world of the power of history, preserved in gold.

Jerusalem: Ancient Garden Discovered Beneath the Church of the Holy Sepulchre

A remarkable archaeological discovery beneath the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem may shed new light on the Gospel accounts of the crucifixion and burial of Jesus Christ. Archaeologists have uncovered traces of an ancient garden, believed to date back 2,000 years, featuring olive trees and grapevines—elements that appear to align closely with descriptions in the Gospel of John.

According to the Independent, this newly found garden could correspond to the site described in the Bible as the place where Jesus was crucified and laid to rest.

“At the place where Jesus was crucified, there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb, in which no one had ever been laid,”
reads John 19:41.

The discovery was made beneath the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, one of Christianity’s most sacred sites. The lead archaeologist, Professor Francesca Romana Stasolla, spoke to The Times of Israel about the significance of the findings:

“The archaeobotanical evidence was particularly interesting to us in light of what is described in the Gospel of John,” she noted.
“The Gospel mentions a green space between Golgotha and the tomb—and we have identified traces of exactly such cultivated land.”

The excavation began in 2022 and has already yielded compelling evidence of an ancient cultivated area—supporting the long-held belief that the site of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre closely matches biblical descriptions.

However, the dig has currently been paused to accommodate the influx of pilgrims expected to visit during the upcoming Easter celebrations.

This discovery not only deepens historical understanding of one of Christianity’s most significant locations but also continues to bridge the worlds of archaeology and faith—reminding us how the physical remnants of the past can enrich our interpretation of ancient texts.

Mancılık Church: Once a Local “Central Bank,” Now Ravaged by Treasure Hunters and Awaiting Restoration

In the quiet village of Mancılık, nestled in the Kangal district of Sivas, stands a forgotten historical treasure—the Mancılık Church. Though its exact origins remain unknown, this Armenian-built stone church holds a deep and mysterious past. Once considered a kind of “Central Bank” by surrounding religious communities, the structure has since fallen victim to looters and neglect. Now, its future hinges on long-overdue restoration efforts.

A Church with a Financial Past

Locals claim that the Mancılık Church served a unique purpose: it functioned as a safe haven for valuables from neighboring churches, essentially acting as a regional treasury. The church’s sturdy stone construction—still largely intact despite years of damage—helped it earn that role. Religious symbols and ornate carvings still adorn its weathered walls, hinting at its spiritual and cultural importance.

Unfortunately, the church’s foundations and surrounding areas have been heavily excavated by treasure hunters, seeking rumored riches. Stones have been removed, and parts of the structure have been severely damaged, diminishing its once-impressive appearance.

Local Voices Call for Action

Özkan Baltacı, the village head, emphasized the church’s historical significance and economic potential:

“For centuries, this church acted like a Central Bank for the area. Now, it’s in ruins. We hope the authorities will step in and restore it. If that happens, it could become a tourism asset, creating income for our community and benefiting both the village and the state. Compared to 30 years ago, it’s a shadow of what it was.”

Longtime residents share similar memories and hopes.
Ayşe Dallıkavak recalls stories passed down to her:

“My mother-in-law used to say it was beautiful, with wooden floors and pictures on the walls. We want it restored, brought back to life in our village.”

Yılmaz Balta, who grew up in Mancılık, reminisced about playing in the church as a child:

“It used to be so beautiful. Over the years, treasure hunters have done a lot of damage. People still come and chip away at the stones, hoping to get rich—but no one ever finds anything. We’ve never heard of anyone striking gold here. We need the authorities to act quickly. Restoration could benefit both the village and Sivas.”

A Heritage Worth Saving

The Mancılık Church is more than just a relic of the past—it’s a piece of living history, connecting today’s villagers with centuries of cultural and religious tradition. Restoring the church could not only preserve a valuable monument but also transform it into a hub for faith tourism, breathing new life into the village economy.

Local leaders and residents now look to national and regional authorities for support—before this cultural gem is lost forever to time and treasure-seeking destruction.

Rare Discovery in Laconia: Dirt Road Covered with Millions-Year-Old Fossilized Shells

Just when you think you’ve seen everything Greece has to offer, another hidden gem surfaces…

In southern Laconia, near the wider area of the Agios Nikolaos Geopark—and more precisely close to the small chapel of Agia Marina—lies a dirt road unlike any other. What makes it so unique? It holds a secret that dates back millions of years.

This unassuming path is literally scattered with thousands of fossilized shells. At first glance, you might miss them entirely unless you take a closer look—then, suddenly, the ground beneath your feet transforms into a natural history exhibit.

A Window into the Miocene Era

Laconia, like much of Greece, is steeped in a geological history that spans millions of years. During the Miocene epoch, approximately 5 to 23 million years ago, this region was submerged under the sea. Marine organisms such as shells, corals, and other sea life thrived here, leaving behind their imprints in the earth. Over time, as geological shifts occurred and the sea gradually receded, these fossilized remnants were preserved—today fully visible along this elevated dirt path, far from the shoreline.

What you’ll find isn’t just a road—it’s an open-air geological museum. As you walk along it, you'll notice the terrain glittering with fossilized shells embedded in the surface, creating a truly surreal and fascinating landscape.

These fossils are the remnants of marine organisms that lived millions of years ago, offering extraordinary insights into the natural history of the region. It’s a rare sight and an invaluable resource for both scientists and curious explorers alike.

A Changing Coastline

This kind of dramatic geographical transformation isn't unique to Laconia. A similar phenomenon can be seen in Thermopylae, once a narrow coastal pass and now situated at the edge of a wide plain—another testament to the ever-evolving Greek landscape.

The Agios Nikolaos Geopark

The Agios Nikolaos Geopark in Laconia is a protected area of significant geological, ecological, and cultural importance. Located near the village of Agios Nikolaos—known for its stunning natural beauty and rich heritage—it forms part of the Atlas of Geological Monuments of the Aegean.

Along the coastal sites of Agia Marina, Korakas, and Spitha, ancient fossilized forms stand as silent witnesses of a distant past, quietly preserving the secrets of Earth’s evolutionary journey.

According to a study by Professor Evangelos Velitzelos, Director of the Department of Historical Geology–Paleontology at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, the findings from this region are one of a kind in Europe and of inestimable scientific importance.

📍 Coordinates to Visit the Dirt Road: https://goo.gl/maps/LvHoEG1YcxyjEoev8

🎥 Watch the video to explore more of this natural wonder!

Nolan’s Odyssey: “A Cinematic Masterpiece Homer Would Be Proud Of”

The epic vision of The Odyssey by Christopher Nolan made waves at CinemaCon on Wednesday (April 2), as Universal Pictures took audiences on a journey through the ages to promote the film. Among the bold claims made during the event: that Homer himself “would be proud.”

Jim Orr, Universal’s President of Domestic Theatrical Distribution, declared that the film—still currently in production—is shaping up to be “a visionary cinematic masterpiece that Homer himself would likely be proud of,” according to Variety.

Orr also highlighted the “breathtaking all-star cast” assembled by Nolan.

And it’s hard to argue with him. Riding high on the Oscar-winning success of Oppenheimer, Nolan has brought together an impressive ensemble that includes Matt Damon as Odysseus, the legendary King of Ithaca, along with Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, Lupita Nyong’o, Robert Pattinson, and Charlize Theron.

Universal has yet to release any footage from the film.

Archaeologists Uncover 2,200-Year-Old Pyramid in the Judean Desert

A monumental pyramid-shaped structure and a nearby roadside station, both dating back approximately 2,200 years, have been unearthed north of Nahal Zohar in Israel’s Judean Desert. These newly discovered remnants—linked to the era of the Ptolemaic and Seleucid rulers of Judea—are part of an extraordinary excavation led by the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) and the Ministry of Heritage, with volunteers from across the country joining the effort.

A Fortress Full of Secrets

At the site of Zohar Fortress, near the Dead Sea, archaeologists have uncovered an array of historic artifacts:

• Fragments of ancient papyrus scrolls,

• Bronze coins from the reigns of Antiochus IV and the Ptolemaic kings,

• Weapons,

• Wooden objects, and

• Textiles, all astonishingly preserved thanks to the dry desert climate.

According to excavation leaders Matan Toledano, Dr. Eitan Klein, and Amir Ganor, the newly uncovered six-meter-high pyramid stands out as one of the most fascinating and significant finds in the entire region.

“This is one of the richest and most exciting archaeological digs in the Judean Desert. The structure we’ve uncovered is massive—made of hand-carved stones, each weighing several hundred kilograms,” they stated.

In just the first week of excavation, volunteers unearthed historical documents, unique bronze artifacts, and ancient furniture—many items remarkably well-preserved due to the arid conditions.

“This area holds immense promise,” the archaeologists added. “New discoveries are emerging all the time, and we can’t wait to see what the next three weeks will reveal.”

A National Effort to Protect the Past

The Nahal Zohar excavation is part of a broader, years-long national initiative to protect archaeological treasures in the Judean Desert from looting. Funded jointly by the Ministry of Heritage, the Civil Administration’s Archaeology Unit, and the Israel Antiquities Authority, the project has already made remarkable progress.

A special anti-looting task force has systematically scanned over 180 kilometers of desert cliffs, identifying around 900 caves. Using climbing gear, cutting-edge technology, and advanced documentation methods, the team has uncovered thousands of rare objects:

• Ancient papyrus scrolls and fragments,

• Weapons,

• Wooden and leather artifacts,

• Woven textiles and carpets,

• And caches of ancient coins.

Rewriting the Timeline of the Desert

“This excavation is transforming our understanding of the region’s history,” said Toledano, Klein, and Ganor. “Contrary to earlier theories linking the pyramid to the First Temple period, we now believe it was built later—during the Hellenistic period under Ptolemaic rule.”

Still, its exact purpose remains a mystery.

“Was it a military outpost, guarding a major trade route used to transport salt and bitumen from the Dead Sea to the Mediterranean coast? Or perhaps, at some point, did this massive mountain-top structure serve as a funerary marker or ancient monument? It remains a compelling historical puzzle, and we’re thrilled that the public is part of solving it.”

A Call to Discover

Eli Eskozido, Director of the Israel Antiquities Authority, praised the excavation as a landmark archaeological achievement.

“The exploration of the Judean Desert is one of the most important archaeological projects in our country’s history. The findings are extraordinary, carrying immense historical and scientific value,” he stated.

As Passover and spring approach, Eskozido extended an invitation to the public:

“In these challenging times, a few days of discovery and exploration in the Judean Desert can be both unifying and rejuvenating. We encourage Israelis to join us in uncovering our shared heritage.”

Source: Newsbomb.gr

Unearthing the Secrets of Ancient Chalcedon Beneath Modern Kadikoy

Today, Kadikoy is one of Istanbul’s most vibrant, forward-looking districts. But beneath its buzzing streets lies a history stretching back thousands of years—long before it became the bustling cultural hub we know today.

From Harhadon to Chalcedon: A City Born of Trade and Myth

An aerial view of the archaeological site discovered during restoration works at Haydarpasa Train Station in Kadikoy, Istanbul, Türkiye. (IHA Photo)

Kadikoy’s story begins as early as 1,000 B.C., when the Phoenicians established a thriving trading post in the area now known as Fikirtepe. This settlement, known as Harhadon, flourished along the shores, eventually evolving into a small kingdom extending to present-day Izmit (Kocaeli).

By the 7th century B.C., Greek settlers from Megara in Attica arrived and founded Chalcedon near the modern Moda headland. Dubbed the “City of Copper,” Chalcedon was not only a strategic port but also a cultural and spiritual center, once home to the Temple of Apollo and a local hippodrome at Haydarpasa Meadow.

A City “of the Blind”?

A view of the archaeological site discovered during restoration works at Haydarpasa Train Station in Kadikoy, Istanbul, Türkiye. (IHA Photo)

Legend has it that Byzas, son of the king of Megara, consulted an oracle before founding a new city. The oracle cryptically advised him to settle “opposite the land of the blind.” As the story goes, upon reaching the Bosphorus, Byzas saw that settlers had chosen Chalcedon—ignoring the more advantageous position across the water. “They must have been blind,” he said, before founding Byzantium (modern-day Istanbul) on the European side. The phrase stuck, branding Chalcedon as the “land of the blind.”

Rediscovering Chalcedon at Haydarpasa Train Station

An aerial view of the church unearthed during archaeological works at Haydarpasa Train Station in Kadikoy, Istanbul, Türkiye. (IHA Photo)

Fast-forward to June 2018: Renovation work on the historic Haydarpasa Train Station revealed ancient ruins hidden beneath the platforms. Construction was halted, and the site was designated a protected archaeological zone.

Excavations uncovered ruins from the early Byzantine era, including a vast bathhouse complex—a telltale feature of port cities serving merchants and sailors. These findings confirm Haydarpasa's role as one of Chalcedon’s two major harbors. Remarkably, ancient ships could once dock as far inland as today’s Sogutlucesme Train Station.

Archaeologists also traced the region’s first train station back to 1872. Later expansions required massive land reclamation, pushing the coastline 750 meters into the sea.

Saint Bassa and Her Forgotten Sanctuary

Mass tomb unearthed during ongoing archaeological excavations in and around Haydarpasa Train Station, Kadikoy, Istanbul, Türkiye, July 19, 2024 (AA Photo)

One of the site’s most poignant discoveries is the Church of Saint Bassa. A noblewoman-turned-Christian martyr, Saint Bassa was burned alive during a festival honoring Apollo. She was later canonized, and a church was built in her name. Excavators unearthed a hypogeum—a vaulted underground chamber—beneath the church, where multiple skeletons were found stacked together.

A Byzantine Market Under a Modern Mall

In 2019, archaeologists made another exciting discovery near the Nautilus Shopping Mall in Kadikoy: a 5–6 meter wide Byzantine boulevard, lined with ancient shops. Marble columns, ornate capitals, and stone foundations pointed to a bustling commercial district more than a thousand years ago—suggesting that Kadikoy’s role as a trade hub has remained remarkably consistent.

Fikirtepe: Pushing History Back 8,500 Years

An ancient street discovered during excavation work on an empty plot next to Nautilus Shopping Mall in Kadikoy, Istanbul, Türkiye. (Photo via Arkeofili)

The archaeological site at Fikirtepe offers an even deeper glimpse into Kadikoy’s past. Digs here have revealed Neolithic-era dwellings, tools, and evidence of agriculture—tracing human settlement in the area back 8,500 years. What was once a simple riverside village became a cultural and economic center that would endure through millennia.

Underground Secrets from World War II

In this black-and-white photo from the 1950s showing archaeological excavations in Fikirtepe, Kadikoy, Istanbul, Sultan Murad V’s hunting lodge can be seen in the background. (Photo via Istanbul University

Kadikoy’s layered history doesn’t stop in antiquity. During World War II, Turkey—fearing a potential German invasion from Thrace—constructed military tunnels connecting Selimiye Barracks to Haydarpasa Station. Designed to move troops covertly, one partially collapsed tunnel stretches 370 meters and is believed to connect to a far larger underground network.

A City Rediscovered

Visitors and members of the press walk through one of the World War II-era tunnels located at Haydarpasa Train Station in Kadikoy, Istanbul, Türkiye. (Photo via 10Haber)

With every excavation, ancient Chalcedon is slowly reclaiming its place in Istanbul’s rich historical narrative. From Neolithic settlements to Byzantine marketplaces and wartime bunkers, Kadikoy is revealing itself not just as a modern neighborhood—but as a living, breathing archive of human civilization.

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Archaeological digs beneath Kadikoy are rewriting the story of ancient Chalcedon.
From tunnels to temples, secrets of a lost city are resurfacing in modern Istanbul. #Chalcedon #Kadikoy #Archaeology #IstanbulHistory