archaeology

New findings by researchers from Simon Fraser University and the NAAM Foundation reveal that Curaçao was settled by humans up to 850 years earlier than previously believed, offering new insights into Caribbean pre-Columbian history and emphasizing the importance of archaeological fieldwork and community engagement. The image above depicts a rusty shipwreck on the island.New research establishes that humans occupied Curaçao between 5735 and 5600 calibrated years before present (cal BP). This finding suggests that the…

Scientists from the University of Leicester have successfully relocated over forty lost archaeological sites in Cyprus, ranging from the Bronze Age to the Byzantine period. This discovery, achieved through a detailed survey in the Dhekelia area, enriches the understanding of Cyprus’ rich historical heritage and highlights the value of systematic archaeological efforts and collaboration in preserving these ancient sites. Slab quarrying near Xylophagou anchorage. Credit: ULAS, University of LeicesterUniversity of Leicester…

The Makanpansgat Cobble might be the earliest known "cool rock." Credit: Brett Eloff If you look around your bedroom, or in the door pocket of your car, you may have a cool shell you've found and kept. Maybe it's a nice pinky-orange, or has a perfect little hole so that one day you could make a necklace. If you've ever picked up such a shell, a good…

A groundbreaking study reveals that East Asia was inhabited by hominins with advanced tool-making skills equivalent to Mode 2 technology over 1.1 million years ago, challenging previous timelines and perceptions of early technological development in the region. This discovery, highlighting sophisticated techniques and planning, suggests a reevaluation of early human culture and connections across Eurasia. (A-E) Slender flakes are intentionally broken and used as blanks for retouching tipped tools. (G-I) Unifacially…

The earth settles following the explosion of the mine beneath Hawthorn Ridge Redoubt on July 1, 1916. Recent research on the Hawthorn Ridge crater from World War I has revealed how an early detonation turned into a strategic blunder for the British, enabling German forces to strengthen their defenses. This study highlights the importance of timing in warfare and offers new insights into the adaptive tactics used by the Germans, significantly contributing to our understanding of the Battle of the Somme and trench warfare…

A scientist has discovered a unique eleventh-century Islamic astrolabe in Verona, Italy, featuring both Arabic and Hebrew inscriptions. This find illustrates the rich scientific collaboration between Muslim, Jewish, and Christian cultures in the medieval period, showcasing the astrolabe as a symbol of intercultural exchange and knowledge. Credit: Federica GiganteThe discovery of an Islamic astrolabe from the eleventh century, inscribed in both Arabic and Hebrew, ranks it among the oldest examples ever discovered and one…

Scientists have discovered a fourth-century Roman temple in Spello, Italy. This significant find challenges the notion of a swift religious shift, revealing a more gradual integration of Christian beliefs alongside enduring pagan traditions. Above is an aerial photograph of the newly-discovered Imperial Cult ruins by Douglas Boin, Ph.D., and his team. Credit: Douglas Boin, Ph.D.Douglas Boin, Ph.D., a history professor at Saint Louis University, unveiled a groundbreaking discovery during the annual meeting of the…

An archaeologist takes samples of pollen found in soil to understand the changing vegetation of a site: a companion technique to the authors’ analysis of hazelnut shells. Credit: Nils ForshedArchaeologists study the carbon isotope values in hazelnuts from ancient sites to understand the characteristics of the local woods.If we could stand in a landscape that our Mesolithic ancestors called home, what would we see around us? Researchers have developed a technique to examine ancient hazelnut shells, preserved over…

Artwork shows three mammoths being watched by a family of ancient Alaskans from the dunes near the Swan Point archaeological site, a seasonal hunting camp occupied 14,000 years ago. Credit: Julius Csostonyi. editedScientists have linked the movements of a 14,000-year-old woolly mammoth with early human settlements in Alaska. Analysis of the mammoth’s tusk revealed a journey that overlapped with human hunting areas, indicating a close relationship between these early settlers and mammoths.Researchers have linked the…

Researchers have discovered evidence of Down Syndrome and Edwards Syndrome in ancient DNA, tracing back to between 2,500 and 5,000 years ago, revealing these individuals received care and were appreciated within their societies. They found burials with grave goods and within settlements, suggesting a societal acceptance, and plan to expand research on how ancient societies treated individuals with such conditions.Burial practices indicate that individuals with Down Syndrome and Edwards Syndrome were recognized as members…