A newly discovered marble statue at the ancient Egyptian city of Taposiris Magna may depict Cleopatra VII, reigniting the debate about the location of her tomb. While lead archaeologist Kathleen Martinez believes it’s Cleopatra, other experts disagree, sparking a fascinating discussion about Roman-era artistic styles and the ongoing search for the famed queen’s final resting place.
Discover the captivating story behind a turquoise-encrusted Aztec mask from the British Museum, revealing insights into the rituals, symbolism, and mythology of the Aztec civilization, particularly the ‘new fire’ ceremony and the god Xiuhtecuhtli.
Archaeological research reveals a chilling connection between a mass child sacrifice in 15th-century Mexico and a devastating drought. The skeletal remains of 42 children, discovered at the Templo Mayor in Mexico City, were likely offered to the rain god Tláloc in a desperate attempt to end the crippling drought that ravaged the region.
Archaeologists in England have unearthed a 2,000-year-old Roman knife handle depicting a gladiator, showcasing the enduring fascination with these iconic fighters across the Roman Empire. The find, a rare artifact in Britain, coincides with the highly anticipated release of “Gladiator II” and highlights the enduring popularity of gladiatorial games in ancient Rome.
Archaeologists have unearthed dozens of 12,000-year-old, doughnut-shaped pebbles in Israel that may represent one of the earliest examples of wheel-like technology. These pebbles, with holes that allow for a stick to be inserted, were likely used as spindle whorls, a tool used for spinning textiles. The discovery suggests that early humans may have utilized rotational technology much earlier than previously thought.
Archaeologists have unearthed a rock shelter in Tajikistan that may have served as a meeting point for Neanderthals, Denisovans, and modern humans over a staggering 130,000 years. Located along the Zeravshan River, the site, named Soii Havzak, offers a unique glimpse into the interactions of these ancient human species during the Stone Age.
A groundbreaking study using structural mechanics suggests that Eastern European copper miners, as early as 3900 B.C., may have been the driving force behind the invention of the wheel. By analyzing the evolution of wheel technology, the study reveals the critical role of environmental constraints and innovative problem-solving in shaping this transformative invention.
Archaeologists have uncovered a fourth-century Roman military structure in southeastern Turkey, confirming historical records of the fortress’s construction during the reign of Emperor Constantius II. This discovery sheds light on the Roman Empire’s eastern border defense and the rich history of Hasankeyf, one of the oldest continuously inhabited sites in the world.
A recently unearthed inscription in the ancient city of Anemurium, Turkey, sheds light on the vibrant cultural life of the city, specifically highlighting the importance of wrestling in the 2nd century AD. The inscription, discovered in the city’s Harbor Bath, honors a wrestler named Kaikilianos, who won a prestigious competition held every five years. This finding further strengthens Anemurium’s potential to be recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and shifting landscapes are jeopardizing countless archaeological sites around the world. From ancient settlements in Scotland to Roman tablets in England, precious historical remnants are facing destruction. While some discoveries emerge from these environmental changes, the challenge of preserving our past in the face of a changing climate is increasingly urgent.
