South Africa’s Pleistocene Occupation Sites are gaining recognition as major tourist attractions, showcasing evidence of early human activity and attracting global interest. These sites, crucial for understanding human evolution and adaptation, offer a unique glimpse into our prehistoric past, adding a new dimension to South Africa’s already vibrant tourism offerings.
A four-year-old boy unintentionally broke a Bronze Age jar at the Hecht Museum in Haifa, Israel. The jar, estimated to be around 3,500 years old, was on display without protective covering. The museum, known for its open display policy, has invited the child’s family for a guided tour despite the incident.
New archaeological evidence from Waigeo Island in West Papua reveals that skilled seafarers traveled along the equator to reach the islands over 50,000 years ago. This discovery sheds light on the early human migration into the Pacific and challenges previous assumptions about the timing and routes of these journeys. The research highlights the ingenuity and adaptability of these early settlers, who utilized rainforest resources and developed sophisticated skills for navigating challenging waters.
The Hong Kong Palace Museum (HKPM) is hosting a special exhibition titled ‘The Origins of Chinese Civilisation’ to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China. This exhibition, running from September 25, 2024 to February 7, 2025, explores 5,000 years of Chinese heritage and culture through nearly 110 precious artifacts, including national treasures, from major cultural institutions across China.
Archaeologists in Iceland have unearthed a small, carved stone figurine that may be a rare Viking Age toy. While the animal depicted is unclear, the find provides a glimpse into the lives of Viking children and the archaeological richness of the Fjörður excavation site.
Nestled in Sarawak’s lush rainforests, Niah National Park’s Caves Complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing ancient rock art and archaeological discoveries that offer a glimpse into human history spanning over 50,000 years. This unique destination blends natural beauty with historical significance, boosting Malaysia’s tourism sector and attracting travelers seeking both cultural immersion and adventure.
A Danish college student has made a remarkable discovery while metal detecting – a hoard of Viking Age silver jewelry that served as currency. The treasure, unearthed near Elsted, Denmark, sheds light on the region’s role as a central hub during the Viking Age, connecting Scandinavia with Russia, Ukraine, and the British Isles.
Archaeologists in Poland have unearthed a 500-year-old compass in the underground tunnels beneath the gardens where Nicolaus Copernicus, the renowned astronomer, died. This discovery could provide valuable insights into Copernicus’s scientific practices and his influence on the development of science in Europe.
Exploring the history of cooking, this article examines archaeological and biological evidence suggesting that humans were cooking food as early as 2 million years ago. The invention of cooking played a crucial role in the evolution of our species, impacting our dietary needs, gut size, and even brain development.
Archaeologists unearthed the skeletal remains of a woman and a man trapped by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in Pompeii, offering a poignant glimpse into the final moments of those fleeing the catastrophic event. The discovery sheds light on the human cost of the eruption and provides insight into the desperate attempts of individuals to survive the pyroclastic flow.
