All posts by Archeology worldwide team

EUROPE, ITALY, WORLD

Ice Age Teens Achieved Puberty at the Same Age as Modern Teens

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Ice Age Teens Achieved Puberty at the Same Age as Modern Teens

It turns out the kids might be all right, contrary to what some people have been saying. A brilliant new study has revealed fascinating insights into the adolescent development of Ice Age teenagers from 25,000 years ago, shedding light on the timing of puberty in Pleistocene youths.

The research analyzed the bones of 13 ancient individuals estimated to be between 10 and 20 years old, to learn, among other things, that Ice Age teens were actually quite healthy.

‘Normal’ Puberty: The Time Frame of Pleistocene Adolescent Development

The researchers also learnt, crucially, that most of the individuals in the sample entered puberty at an average age of 13.5, reaching full adulthood between the ages of 17 and 22.

This timing is strikingly similar to that of adolescents in modern, affluent societies, suggesting that the onset of puberty has not significantly changed over millennia. These and other findings have emerged from the riveting new study published in The Journal of Human Evolution.

This collaborative research involved six institutions across multiple countries, including UVic in Canada, the University of Reading and University of Liverpool in the UK, the Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology of Monaco, and universities in Cagliari and Siena in Italy. The ongoing collaboration aims to deepen our understanding of the lives of Ice Age teenagers and their roles within their social structures.

The research analyzed the bones of 13 ancient individuals estimated to be between 10 and 20 years old. By examining these bones, researchers identified specific markers that allowed them to assess the stages of adolescence the individuals had reached at the time of their deaths.

“By analyzing specific areas of the skeleton, we inferred things like menstruation and someone’s voice breaking,” says University of Victoria (UVic) paleoanthropologist April Nowell, who co-led the study, in a press release.

University of Victoria paleoanthropologist April Nowell says specific markers in the bones of unearthed from the Pleistocene era allows researchers to assess the progression of adolescence. These findings can humanize teens in a way studying tools cannot.

Nowell explained that there is a common belief today that adolescents are entering puberty unusually early, often attributed to factors such as hormones in milk or environmental chemicals.

However, the research shows that Ice Age teenagers began puberty at roughly the same age as modern teens. This finding, she noted, suggests that instead of being an anomaly, today’s adolescents are actually following a developmental blueprint that has been consistent for thousands of years.

The innovative technique employed in this study was developed by lead author Mary Lewis from the University of Reading. Lewis’s methodology focuses on evaluating the mineralization of the canines and the maturation of bones in the hand, elbow, wrist, neck, and pelvis.

This detailed assessment enables researchers to pinpoint the stage of puberty achieved by each individual, offering a window into their developmental processes, reports The Daily Mail.

Dr. Mary Lewis from the University of Reading (UK) inspects the skeletal remains of Romito 2 found in southern Italy.

Understanding Prehistoric People Outside Tools

Contrary to the characterization of prehistoric life as “nasty, brutish, and short,” as famously described by philosopher Thomas Hobbes, this study has shown that Pleistocene teens were quite the opposite.

Among the skeletons examined was “Romito 2,” an adolescent estimated to be male and notably the earliest known individual with a form of dwarfism. The findings from this research provide further insights into Romito 2’s likely physical appearance and social role.

Midway through puberty, he would have experienced changes such as a deeper voice, akin to that of adult males, and the potential to father children. However, due to his short stature, he may have presented a youthful appearance with fine facial hair, which could have influenced how he was perceived by his community.

The research also revealed that teenagers who lived 25,000 to 40,000 years ago were highly active members of their communities. They contributed significantly by hunting, fishing, and gathering, playing a crucial role in helping their communities survive.

“The specific information about the physical appearance and developmental stage of these Ice Age adolescents derived from our puberty study provides a new lens through which to interpret their burials and treatment in death,” concludes archaeologist Jennifer French of the University of Liverpool, one of the co-authors of the study.

EUROPE, ITALY, WORLD

Picene Prince’s Tomb Reveals a Chariot and 150 Other 7th Century BC Artifacts

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Picene Prince’s Tomb Reveals a Chariot and 150 Other 7th Century BC Artifacts

In the town of Corinaldo in Italy’s Ancona, archaeologists conducting excavations in the Nevola necropolis found a significant archaeological burial, belonging to an elite member of the Picene (Picentes) culture.

Dating back to the 7th century BC, the discovery features a grand princely tomb, which has yielded over 150 artifacts. Amongst the artifacts, the highlights include a two-wheeled chariot and an impressive collection of bronze items.

Analysis of the Artifacts: The Picene Aristocracy and Etruscan Culture

Excavations uncovered a substantial square pit, approximately 3.80 by 2.20 meters (12.5 x 7.2 feet), enclosed within a large circular ditch with an original diameter of 30 meters (98.4 feet). Among the assortment of bronze items that were placed around the chariot were a helmet, a cauldron, and several intricately decorated containers, reflecting the aristocratic lifestyle of the era.

Bronze cauldron, amongst many other bronze items in the burial.

These artifacts indicate a connection with the Etruscan culture, suggesting that the Picene aristocracy engaged in exchanges and maintained relationships with the Etruscans during that period, according to a press release by Città di Corinaldo.

The assortment of items, such as banquet utensils and vessels for food and drink, provides a vivid glimpse into the customs and lives of high-ranking figures in ancient Picene society.

The Etruscans, who inhabited the region of Etruria (modern-day Tuscany, western Umbria, and northern Lazio), were known for their advanced civilization, which included sophisticated urban planning, a rich artistic tradition, and extensive trade networks.

The Picenes, residing in the central Adriatic regions of Italy, primarily in what is now the Marche region, were a warrior society with a robust aristocracy.

A helmet found in the Picene grave.

One of the primary links between the Etruscan culture and the Picene aristocracy was trade. The Etruscans were accomplished merchants and established extensive trade routes across the Mediterranean.

They exported goods such as fine pottery, bronze items, and luxury goods, which found their way into Picene territories. The Picene elite adopted several elements of Etruscan culture, including aspects of their art, religious practices, and possibly even their language.

For instance, the presence of Etruscan inscriptions and motifs on Picene artifacts suggests a degree of cultural assimilation and mutual influence, reports Arkeonews.

More indistinct artifacts in the tomb.

The ArcheoNevola Project: A State and Student Collaboration

This discovery is a result of the ArcheoNevola Project, led by the University of Bologna in collaboration with the Municipality of Corinaldo and the Soprintendenza Archeologia Belle Arti e Paesaggio for the provinces of Ancona and Pesaro Urbino.

Since its launch in 2018, the project has focused on exploring and preserving the region’s rich historical heritage, particularly at the Contrada Nevola site, a key location for understanding the earliest human settlements in the area.

Students from the University of Bologna actively participate in the excavation campaigns, contributing their enthusiasm and dedication to uncovering and studying these ancient treasures.

Corinaldo’s mayor, Gianni Aloisi, expressed his excitement about the find, noting that it underscores the cultural and historical importance of the Nevola archaeological area. “Corinaldo can proudly claim the title of the land of Princes.

This discovery confirms the historical and cultural value of the Nevola archaeological area, which will allow us to understand, and perhaps rewrite, the history of our community. From the outset, this administration decided to invest significant resources in the excavation campaign and research because the importance of what is emerging, and we hope more will emerge, is truly significant,” he explained.

Efforts are being made to meticulously document and preserve the artifacts and the site itself. Conservation and, when necessary, restoration work are integral parts of the project to ensure that these valuable pieces of history are maintained for future study and public display.

The project plans to establish a museum area in Corinaldo to exhibit the artifacts, making them accessible to the public and enhancing educational opportunities for visitors and locals alike.

EGYPT, WORLD

Fingerprints on Egyptian Terracotta Figurines Show Organization of Labor

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Fingerprints on Egyptian Terracotta Figurines Show Organization of Labor

Ancient fingerprints found on terracotta figurines from the ancient port city of Thonis-Heracleion, are being studied by an Oxford University Ph.D. student, to reveal the age and sex of the craftspeople – and it turns out that this included men, women, and children!

Dating back to the Late and Ptolemaic periods (7th-2nd centuries BC), the research marks only the second ever attempt to research ancient Egyptian fingerprint impressions.

The first such study and methodology to employ Reflectance Transformation Imaging (RTI) technology has been led by Ph.D. student Leonie Hoff from the University of Oxford and has been published in the Oxford Journal of Archaeology.

Through excavations conducted in the 1990s, a total of 60 terracotta figurines were retrieved, including nine which exhibited well-preserved fingerprints.

Greco Influence and Subverting Masculine Expectations

Who crafted these figurines? This data has historically eluded historians and archaeologists as Egyptian figures were produced from Nile silt, which was unsuitable for intricate work and detailing. By the time the Greeks came to Egypt in the 7th century BC, the craftspeople refined their techniques to be able to make detailed figurines more in line with Greek production.

It was thought, as is the case in most cultures, that the craftspeople were people of lower social status, and male, like in Greece. This has turned out to be an erroneous assumption, and the new data shows us a new organization of labor not documented before in these parts.

The process of making the figurines was in two broad steps, both of which involved leaving residual fingerprints. Firstly, wet clay sheets were pressed into molds; secondly, as the molds partially dried, the two halves were joined together to form complete figurines.

Silicone-molded replica of the imprints discovered at the site, featuring measurements for ridge breadths (lines) and ridge densities (squares).

“For my material, identifying specific individuals is currently not possible due to the mostly fragmentary state and also the fact that the figurines are not from exactly the same date. However, there is some work on an assemblage of Roman lamps from the Levant where the same individual could be identified on multiple objects, so in theory, this is certainly possible with archaeological material.

It just depends on whether the material is coherent in terms of date and how fragmentary the imprints are,” provided Hoff as per a press release.

Hoff conducted ridge density analyses on the fingerprints: findings indicated that female fingerprints typically displayed a higher ridge density compared to male prints in the same area. The recorded data was juxtaposed against ridge density patterns observed in modern-day Egyptian populations in a bid to determine the sex of the artisan.

The Addition of Children: A Highly Intricate Production Model

Age too was assessed by measuring ridge breadth; children generally possess thinner ridges than adults. Using this data, Hoff categorized the fingerprints into those belonging to children, sub-adults and adults. It was difficult and nearly impossible to determine the sex of the children though.

“I was perhaps initially a little surprised to find such clear evidence of children’s involvement, but it actually makes a lot of sense if you think about it since this type of work lends itself to the involvement of children, and ethnographical evidence confirms the involvement of children cross-culturally in potteries,” says a surprised Hoff.

All in all, approximately 14 distinct individuals were identified in the production of the figurines. Whether they worked on multiple figurines or not is still unclear. Hoff’s data suggests an almost equal participation of men and women in in figurine production, with women having the slight edge in numbers. The study subverts earlier assumptions that figurine-making was an exclusively male profession.

Hoff also learnt that children were involved in the production of both Greek and Egyptian figurines, but never worked independently. Their fingerprints were found alongside older individuals, which implied that they probably just played a role in pressing the clay sheets into molds, a task suitable for their smaller hands.

The pattern of fingerprint placement indicated that children’s prints were confined to within the figurines, while adults’ prints appeared both inside and along the outsides.

“For the site I’m working on, the terracotta material is currently quite limited. I’m hoping that we find more terracotta to be able to add more data to the study,” concludes Hoff, as she’s pressed about moving forward.

Thonis-Heracleion: A Major Port City of Yore

Founded in the eighth century BC, Thonis-Heracleion flourished as a major port city during the Saite and Ptolemaic periods, strategically located along the mouth of the Nile, which facilitated both defense and trade regulation, including the influx of migrants from Greece, reports Archaeology Mag.

The city maintained its prominence until the establishment of Alexandria, which eventually took over as the primary harbor. Following this shift, Thonis-Heracleion gradually fell into decline and was nearly forgotten until its rediscovery in the 1990s.

ASIA, CHINA, WORLD

World’s Smallest Dinosaur Egg Fossils Discovered in China

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World’s Smallest Dinosaur Egg Fossils Discovered in China

Half a dozen dinosaur eggs, each around the size of a grape, were recently saved from a construction site in China. Researchers say the tiny fossilized shells are exceptionally well preserved.

Six eggs belonging to the newly identified theropod species Minioolithus ganzhouensis were discovered at a construction site near Ganzhou. The smallest was just 1.1 inches wide.

The smallest-ever nonavian dinosaur eggs have been unearthed in China and assigned to a never-before-seen species. The tiny paleontological treasures, each about the size of a grape, were unearthed at a construction site just days from being potentially destroyed by building work.

The six tiny eggs were recovered during a field survey of a construction site near Ganzhou in southeastern China in 2021, Chinese state media reported.

The fossilized shells, known as the “Ganzhou mini eggs,” were irregularly arranged within a lump of rock, making it hard to determine if they were part of a single nest. The rock dates back roughly 80 million years, to the Cretaceous period (145 million to 66 million years ago).

The smallest egg is 1.1 inches (2.9 centimeters) long, smashing the previous record for the smallest nonavian dinosaur egg, which was held by an egg recovered from Japan.

That one was laid by the chicken-size dinosaur Himeoolithus murakamii around 110 million years ago and measured 1.8 inches (4.5 cm), according to Guinness World Records. For comparison, the newly uncovered eggs are around half as long as most chicken eggs.

In a study published Oct. 14 in the journal Historical Biology, researchers revealed that the eggs likely belong to a never-before-seen species of nonavian theropod dinosaur — a group of bipedal, largely predatory dinosaurs such as Tyrannosaurus rex — that they named Minioolithus ganzhouensis. It is currently unclear how large M. ganzhouensis would have grown after hatching.

Researchers say the newly uncovered eggs are surprisingly well preserved despite being 80 million years old.

The tiny eggs are exceptionally well preserved. Detailed analysis of the fossilized shells using scanning electron microscopy revealed that the internal structure of the eggs has remained almost completely intact.

Future studies on these eggs could reveal more about the reproductive biology of Late Cretaceous theropod dinosaurs, study co-author Fenglu Han, a paleontologist at China University of Geosciences in Wuhan, said in a translated statement.

Dinosaur eggs vary widely in shape and size, and their size doesn’t always predict how large the species that laid them could grow. For example, some ornithopods, or duck-billed dinosaurs, laid eggs that were 5.4 inches (13.7 cm) long, while some titanosaurs — the largest creatures ever to walk on land — hatched from eggs that were just 5.9 inches (15 cm) long, despite growing up to four times longer than ornithopods.

The newly discovered eggs are extremely small but not quite as tiny as those laid by some of the last remaining dinosaurs — birds.

The record for the smallest known avian egg belongs to the vervain hummingbird (Mellisuga minima), whose eggs are as small as 0.4 inch (0.1 cm) long and lighter than a paper clip, according to Guinness World Records.

ASIA, WORLD

16,000-year-old skeleton, crystals and stone tools discovered in Malaysian caves

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16,000-year-old skeleton, crystals and stone tools discovered in Malaysian caves

Archaeologists in Malaysia have uncovered a 16,000-year-old human skeleton in the Gua Kechil cave complex, shedding new light on the region’s prehistoric inhabitants. The remarkable find also includes artifacts providing valuable insights into the lives of some of Southeast Asia’s earliest settlers reports .

This discovery is thought to be one of the oldest human remains ever found in Malaysia and could reveal important details about migration patterns and the region’s ancient culture. It was found along with 15 more recent human remains found across 4 sites in the region.

A Major Prehistoric Discovery

The skeletons have been unearthed during ongoing excavations in the Gua Kechil caves in Pahang, a state in central Malaysia known for its rich archaeological history.

According to Archaeology Magazine, 15 of the remains were buried in a crouched position, a burial practice typical of prehistoric societies, and were accompanied by stone tools and shell artifacts.

One of the remains was found buried straight, and is dated to the Neolithic period approximately 6,000 years ago.

Dating has revealed the earliest skeleton discovered in the Nenggeri Valley caves dates from between 14,000 and 16,000 years ago.

Artifacts Paint a Picture of Prehistoric Life

Alongside the skeletal remains, archaeologists found a range of artifacts including stone tools and shell ornaments that may have been used for both practical and ceremonial purposes.

The discovery of these items could suggest a sophisticated level of craftsmanship and cultural expression among the prehistoric inhabitants of the region. These tools were likely used for hunting and gathering, as well as preparing food and processing materials like hides or plants.

“This is not just a burial site, but also evidence of a thriving prehistoric community,” explained Dr. Omar. “The artifacts we’ve found tell a story of daily life, survival, and even early forms of social or religious customs.”

All but one of the 16 burials discovered in the Nenggiri Valley caves date to the pre-Neolithic period in the region, more than 10,000 years ago.

Insights Into Ancient Migration Patterns

The Gua Kechil find is expected to contribute to a better understanding of ancient human migration patterns across Southeast Asia. During the Pleistocene epoch, Southeast Asia was a key region for human migration due to the land bridges that connected it to other parts of Asia.

This particular discovery may help researchers fill in gaps in the timeline of early human settlement in the region, particularly how ancient populations moved, adapted, and thrived in diverse environments.

Dr. Omar explained to  that the skeletal remains could also shed light on the biological characteristics of these ancient humans. DNA analysis of the bones could reveal information about genetic diversity in early Southeast Asian populations, offering clues to their origins and interactions with other groups.

The discovery may provide “an important piece of the puzzle regarding how early humans populated this region and how they adapted to changing environments over millennia.”

A Site of Great Archaeological Importance

The Gua Kechil caves have long been of interest to archaeologists, as the region has yielded several important prehistoric finds over the years. The recent discovery adds to the site’s significance, marking it as a location where ancient human activity can be traced back thousands of years.

“This cave system is proving to be a treasure trove of prehistoric information,” said Dr. Omar to Fox News. “Each new discovery brings us closer to understanding the rich history of human life in this part of the world.”

As excavations continue, researchers hope to uncover more about the daily lives, beliefs, and survival strategies of the ancient people who inhabited the caves. Future studies, including more detailed analysis of the skeletal remains and artifacts, may reveal even more about the ancient cultures that once flourished in this now remote region of Malaysia.

WORLD

3,600-Year-Old Bronze Dagger Recovered from World’s Oldest Shipwreck

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3,600-Year-Old Bronze Dagger Recovered from World’s Oldest Shipwreck

A thrilling underwater adventure off the coast of Kumluca, Antalya, has just unearthed a dazzling bronze dagger with silver rivets, believed to be around 3,600 years old, from the time of the mysterious Cretan-Minoan civilization!

Hidden in the waters of the Mediterranean for millennia, the work on the vessel, which sank in ancient Lycia, began in July and August 2024. To put it into context, the shipwreck find is seen as one of the most exciting underwater archaeology finds in the history of the world!

Precious Cargo from the Troodos Mountains: A Ship Meets its Fate

The ongoing underwater treasure hunt that began 5 years ago is a team led by the intrepid Hakan Öniz from Akdeniz University. With a green light from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the team has been diving deep into the past.

The dagger was discovered in a sunken ship lying 50 meters (164.04 feet) below the surface, a vessel that once carried precious cargo from the Troodos Mountains in Cyprus. It’s now believed that the ship was sailing towards Crete when it met its fate, reports Anadolu Agency.

The Minoan dagger retrieved from the Kumluca shipwreck.

Most Important Wreck in the Med

One of the oldest if not the oldest shipwreck anywhere in the world, the Bronze Age shipwreck was located off the coast of Kumluca, Antalya, dated to the 16th century BC. The ensuing research has focused on in situ documentation, with a limited number of samples excavated under the permission of Türkiye’s Ministry of Culture to gather more insights into the wreck.

So far, researchers have discovered lead weights unlike any found among the 350 shipwrecks identified in the Mediterranean so far. The 14-meter-long (45.9 feet) shipwreck contained 1.5 tons of copper bullion, reported Ancient Origins in 2024.

Cutting-edge technology and modern methods were employed to minimize errors. Using sonar surveys, photo scans, and photographic mosaics, the team created three-dimensional scans of the bullion, revealing that the copper was extracted from mines in Cyprus and molded in the 15th or 16th centuries BC. Research on this significant shipwreck will continue over the next five years.

INA Vice President Cemal Pulak frees a pillow ingot.

Ancient Mediterranean Trading Customs: Early Maritime Dominance

Around 3,600 years ago, the Cretan-Minoan civilization was a dominant maritime power in the eastern Mediterranean, renowned for its extensive trade networks. These trade routes connected the Minoans with various regions, including Egypt, the Levant (modern-day Syria, Lebanon, and Israel), Anatolia (modern-day Turkey), Cyprus, and the Greek mainland.

The Minoans were skilled seafarers, and their ships facilitated the movement of goods across vast distances, establishing Crete as a crucial hub in the ancient world.

The Minoans traded a wide variety of commodities, both importing and exporting goods. They were particularly known for their role in the trade of metals. Copper, which was crucial for making bronze, was imported primarily from Cyprus, while tin—an equally important component of bronze—was sourced from regions as distant as modern-day Afghanistan or Cornwall in England.

The Minoans not only traded raw metals but also manufactured bronze tools, weapons, and artifacts, which they then exported across the Mediterranean.

The Minoans also exported luxury goods such as olive oil and wine; their pottery, known for its designs and craftsmanship, was another significant export. In return, they imported luxury items such as gold, ivory, and precious stones, which were used in Minoan art and religious practices.

During this period, Egypt was a dominant power in the region, and the Minoans likely engaged in trade with the Egyptians, exchanging goods and cultural influences.

The Minoans may have also been involved in paying tribute or taxes to Egypt, particularly in the form of copper ingots, which were essential for maintaining Egypt’s bronze production – this was likely what was seen in the shipwreck where the dagger has just been recovered.

ISRAEL, WORLD

2,700-Year-Old Seal with Winged ‘Genie’ Discovered Near Jerusalem’s Temple Mount

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2,700-Year-Old Seal with Winged ‘Genie’ Discovered Near Jerusalem’s Temple Mount

A rare and extraordinary 2,700-year-old stone seal from the First Temple period has been unearthed near the Southern Wall of the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, shedding light on the Assyrian influence in Judah during this era.

The seal, made of black stone and adorned with a winged figure alongside an inscription in paleo-Hebrew script, offers a unique glimpse into the cultural and artistic exchanges between the Neo-Assyrian Empire and the Kingdom of Judah.

A Rare Glimpse into Assyrian Influence

The discovery, announced by the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA), is being hailed as one of the most significant finds in recent years. The seal features a winged figure, likely a “genie”, a protective demon common in Neo-Assyrian art from the 9th to 7th centuries BC.

This is the first time such a figure has been discovered in Israeli archaeology, marking it as an “extremely rare and unusual” find, according to Dr. Filip Vukosavovic, an Assyriologist and archaeologist with the IAA, reports the Jerusalem Post.

The seal also bears the inscription “LeYehoʼezer ben Hoshʼayahu,” translating to, “For Yehoʼezer son of Hosh’ayahu.”

The researchers claim this inscription is significant not only for its connection to the biblical era but also for its unusual structure. The name “Yehoʼezer” appears in the Bible in its abbreviated form as “Yoʼezer,” one of King David’s warriors, while “Hosh’ayahu” is reminiscent of names mentioned in the Book of Jeremiah.

Close up of the seal, showing figure and paleo Hebrew text.

Artistic Excellence and Personal Craftsmanship

Dr. Yuval Baruch and Navot Rom, the excavation directors, described the seal as a tool for both sealing documents and serving as an amulet. The intricate depiction of the winged figure contrasts sharply with the comparatively rough engraving of the owner’s name, suggesting that Yehoʼezer himself might have inscribed it. This personal touch hints at the literacy and cultural identity of its owner, who likely held a significant position within Judah’s administration.

The seal’s craftsmanship, blending Assyrian iconography with paleo Hebrew or Phoenician script, highlights the cultural interplay between the Assyrian Empire and the local Judahite society. Dr. Baruch emphasized that the seal’s design is unique in its portrayal of a winged man in Neo-Assyrian style, a rare element in the late First Temple period’s glyptic art.

Professional cleaning of the seal.


Insights into Judah’s History

This discovery contributes to a growing body of evidence showing the extent of Assyrian influence on Judah during the First Temple period. The presence of Assyrian-style art in Jerusalem, particularly in elite objects like seals, reflects the deep cultural and political connections between the Assyrian Empire and the Kingdom of Judah. Prof.

Ronny Reich from the University of Haifa noted that the blending of Assyrian and Hebrew elements on the seal underscores the complex identity of Judah’s elite during this period.

Heritage Minister Rabbi Amichai Eliyahu praised the discovery, noting its significance in demonstrating Jerusalem’s central role 2,700 years ago. The seal will be publicly displayed at the upcoming 25th annual “City of David Research Conference” in Jerusalem on September 4, providing scholars and the public with a closer look at this fascinating artifact.

The discovery of the Yehoʼezer seal not only enriches our understanding of the cultural dynamics in ancient Jerusalem but also underscores the city’s historical significance as a hub of political and artistic exchange in the ancient Near East.

TURKEY, WORLD

Classic Pot of Ancient Persian Gold Coins Unearthed in Turkey

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Classic Pot of Ancient Persian Gold Coins Unearthed in Turkey

A team of archaeologists from the University of Michigan, led by Christopher Ratté, has uncovered a significant hoard of Persian gold coins in the ancient city of Notion, located in western Turkey.

This discovery, which includes coins believed to have been used to pay mercenary troops, offers valuable insights into the Persian Empire’s influence and the region’s tumultuous history during the fifth century BC.

Discovery of the Hoard

The find was made during an excavation of a large courtyard house at the center of Notion, a city with a history dating back to the Hellenistic period (3rd–1st century BC). However, evidence suggests that the area was inhabited much earlier, as indicated by the fragments of pottery and the buried structure where the coins were found.

In July 2025, archaeologists uncovered a small pot containing the coins beneath the courtyard, in what appeared to be a secure location, that was never recovered by its owner.

The hoard consists of Persian darics, a type of gold coin minted during the reign of the Achaemenid Empire, which controlled a vast expanse of territory from the late sixth century BC until its conquest by Alexander the Great in 330 BC.

The coins feature the image of a kneeling archer, a characteristic design of the Persian daric, and were likely minted in Sardis, about 60 miles northeast of Notion.

According to Ratté, who is a professor of classical studies and curator of the Kelsey Museum of Archaeology, the hoard dates to the fifth century BC, a period marked by significant military and political upheaval in the region.

Archaeologist Christopher Ratté records architectural details of the Temple of Athena at Notion in western Turkey.

The Significance of the Discovery

The discovery of these coins in a controlled archaeological excavation is a rare and significant event, as Ratté points out. Hoards of precious metal coins like these are usually found by looters, which results in a loss of valuable contextual information.

The precise location and circumstances of this find offer historians and numismatists a unique opportunity to better understand the timeline and history of Persian gold coinage.

One of the key aspects of this hoard is its potential to refine the chronology of the Persian daric. These coins, minted over several centuries with only minor stylistic differences, have long been a subject of study for researchers attempting to arrange them in a chronological sequence.

The coins found at Notion are independently dated by other artifacts associated with the hoard, which could provide a firm anchor for the chronology of Persian coinage during this period.

An aerial view of the house shows the locations of the coins as well as other artifacts, including pottery shards.

Andrew Meadows of Oxford University, an expert in ancient coins, emphasized the importance of this find, noting that if the archaeological context can be accurately established, it could allow for a more precise understanding of Achaemenid gold coinage. The discovery is also important for the broader understanding of the region’s history during a period of intense conflict and shifting allegiances.

Historical Context of the Hoard

Notion, a city that lay on the western coast of what is now Turkey, was a strategic location during the fifth century BC, a time when it was caught between the competing interests of the Persian Empire and the city-state of Athens. The region experienced frequent military operations, and the conflicting loyalties of its inhabitants were well-documented by ancient historians such as Thucydides.

One notable episode occurred between 430 and 427 BC, when Persian sympathizers from the nearby city of Colophon, supported by Greek and “barbarian” mercenaries, occupied part of Notion. The Athenian general Paches later expelled these sympathizers and reorganized the city under Athenian control.

This type of event could have led to the burial of the coin hoard, though other possibilities, such as the naval battles or regional rebellions that occurred later in the century, cannot be ruled out.

Future Research and Implications

The Notion Archaeological Project, which began in 2025, is a collaboration between the University of Michigan and Sinop University, with authorization from the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

The ongoing excavations will further explore the archaeological context of the hoard and study the coins, now housed at the Ephesus Archaeological Museum in Turkey, to gain deeper insights into their date, function, and historical significance.

This discovery not only enriches our understanding of Persian coinage but also sheds light on the complex interactions between the Persian Empire and the Greek city-states during a critical period in ancient history. As the project continues, researchers hope to uncover more about the city’s past and the circumstances that led to the deposition and eventual loss of this remarkable treasure.

EUROPE, ITALY, WORLD

Picene Prince’s Tomb Reveals a Chariot and 150 Other 7th Century BC Artifacts

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Picene Prince’s Tomb Reveals a Chariot and 150 Other 7th Century BC Artifacts

In the town of Corinaldo in Italy’s Ancona, archaeologists conducting excavations in the Nevola necropolis found a significant archaeological burial, belonging to an elite member of the Picene (Picentes) culture.

Dating back to the 7th century BC, the discovery features a grand princely tomb, which has yielded over 150 artifacts. Amongst the artifacts, the highlights include a two-wheeled chariot and an impressive collection of bronze items.

Analysis of the Artifacts: The Picene Aristocracy and Etruscan Culture

Excavations uncovered a substantial square pit, approximately 3.80 by 2.20 meters (12.5 x 7.2 feet), enclosed within a large circular ditch with an original diameter of 30 meters (98.4 feet). Among the assortment of bronze items that were placed around the chariot were a helmet, a cauldron, and several intricately decorated containers, reflecting the aristocratic lifestyle of the era.

Bronze cauldron, amongst many other bronze items in the burial.

These artifacts indicate a connection with the Etruscan culture, suggesting that the Picene aristocracy engaged in exchanges and maintained relationships with the Etruscans during that period, according to a press release by Città di Corinaldo.

The assortment of items, such as banquet utensils and vessels for food and drink, provides a vivid glimpse into the customs and lives of high-ranking figures in ancient Picene society.

The Etruscans, who inhabited the region of Etruria (modern-day Tuscany, western Umbria, and northern Lazio), were known for their advanced civilization, which included sophisticated urban planning, a rich artistic tradition, and extensive trade networks.

The Picenes, residing in the central Adriatic regions of Italy, primarily in what is now the Marche region, were a warrior society with a robust aristocracy.

A helmet found in the Picene grave.

One of the primary links between the Etruscan culture and the Picene aristocracy was trade. The Etruscans were accomplished merchants and established extensive trade routes across the Mediterranean. They exported goods such as fine pottery, bronze items, and luxury goods, which found their way into Picene territories.

The Picene elite adopted several elements of Etruscan culture, including aspects of their art, religious practices, and possibly even their language. For instance, the presence of Etruscan inscriptions and motifs on Picene artifacts suggests a degree of cultural assimilation and mutual influence, reports Arkeonews.

More indistinct artifacts in the tomb.

The ArcheoNevola Project: A State and Student Collaboration

This discovery is a result of the ArcheoNevola Project, led by the University of Bologna in collaboration with the Municipality of Corinaldo and the Soprintendenza Archeologia Belle Arti e Paesaggio for the provinces of Ancona and Pesaro Urbino.

Since its launch in 2025, the project has focused on exploring and preserving the region’s rich historical heritage, particularly at the Contrada Nevola site, a key location for understanding the earliest human settlements in the area.

Students from the University of Bologna actively participate in the excavation campaigns, contributing their enthusiasm and dedication to uncovering and studying these ancient treasures.

Corinaldo’s mayor, Gianni Aloisi, expressed his excitement about the find, noting that it underscores the cultural and historical importance of the Nevola archaeological area.

“Corinaldo can proudly claim the title of the land of Princes. This discovery confirms the historical and cultural value of the Nevola archaeological area, which will allow us to understand, and perhaps rewrite, the history of our community. From the outset, this administration decided to invest significant resources in the excavation campaign and research because the importance of what is emerging, and we hope more will emerge, is truly significant,” he explained.

Efforts are being made to meticulously document and preserve the artifacts and the site itself. Conservation and, when necessary, restoration work are integral parts of the project to ensure that these valuable pieces of history are maintained for future study and public display.

The project plans to establish a museum area in Corinaldo to exhibit the artifacts, making them accessible to the public and enhancing educational opportunities for visitors and locals alike.

ASIA, WORLD

Dunhuang Manuscripts: Insights into Ancient China

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Dunhuang Manuscripts: Insights into Ancient China

Dunhuang is situated in the northwestern part of Gansu province in the west of China. The ancient town occupied a strategic position at the crossroads of the ancient Southern Silk Route and the main road leading from India to Mongolia via Lhasa, as well as controlling the entrance of the Hexi Corridor which led to the heart of the northern Chinese plains and the ancient capitals of Chang’an (modern day Xi’an) and Loyang.

Dunhuang’s unique position also meant that it was a meeting point of various cultures. This is very evident in the Dunhuang manuscripts.

Historical Significance of Dunhuang and the Silk Route

The Dunhuang Manuscripts are a cache of around 20,000 important scrolls found in the Mogao Caves of Dunhuang. The Dunhuang manuscripts date to between the 5th and 11th centuries AD and were sealed up in a chamber in a cave, hidden for about 900 years.

The re-discovery of these precious documents, however, was made completely by accident. Although Dunhuang used to be an important city on the Silk Route during the Middle Ages, it was a backwater by the early 20th century.

As a result of this decline, the numerous Buddhist shrines in the Mogao Caves were in a state of disrepair. This prompted an itinerant Taoist monk by the name of Wang Yuanlu to appoint himself as the caretaker of the caves, and to make an attempt at restoring the derelict shrines.

Digitization of a Dunhuang manuscript

The Accidental Discovery by Wang Yuanlu

The story goes that one day, Wang Yuanlu noticed his cigarette smoke wafting toward the back wall of a large cave shrine (Cave 16 as it is known today). He decided to knock the wall down to see what was behind it. To his amazement, he found a mountain of documents piled in a secret chamber.

Although Wang was unable to read the ancient scripts, he knew that they were incredibly valuable. Thus, the monk decided to contact the local officials and offered to send his findings to the provincial capital. As the Chinese authorities were short of cash and preoccupied with the ongoing Boxer Rebellion, a violent anti-foreign and anti-Christian movement which took place in China towards the end of the Qing dynasty, they refused Wang’s offer.

News of the discovery, however, did not stay in Dunhuang, but soon spread along the caravan routes of Xinjiang. The Hungarian-born explorer and Indologist, Aurel Stein, who was on his second archaeological expedition to Central Asia, was one of the first to hear of it.   

Monk Wang Yuanlu discovered the hidden Library Cave.

After a delicate process of negotiation, Stein managed to convince Wang to sell him about ten thousand scrolls for 130 pounds by claiming that he was following in the footsteps of Xuanzang, a Buddhist monk who made a journey from China to India during the 7th century AD in search of sacred Buddhist texts. Stein’s purchase of these manuscripts sparked a scramble by other European powers to get their hands on the ancient texts, and 10 years later, about 20% of the original material remained when the Chinese authorities transferred the remaining documents to Beijing.

Image of Cave 16 taken by Aurel Stein in 1907, with a small high doorway leading to Cave 17, the Library Cave, seen on the right. The table, bench, and piles of manuscripts near the doorway is Stein’s doctored addition made by overlaying a different photo negative.
Mogao Caves in Dunhuang, China.

Although the Dunhuang Manuscripts contain mostly Buddhist texts, there were other forms of sacred texts as well. These include Taoist, Nestorian Christian, and Manichaean texts. In addition, there were also secular texts that dealt with various areas of knowledge, such as mathematics, history, astronomy, and literature. One of the significant aspects of the Dunhuang Manuscripts can be seen in the large amount of folk literature in it.

Paul Pelliot examining manuscripts in the Library Cave, 1908.

As this form of literature is about the lives of ordinary people, it provides a unique perspective on their experiences, the way they associated with the wider society and the government, as well as their relationships with family and friends.

These insights have led to the revision of some commonly held views about farmers and the governance of agricultural communities. Such developments are promising, as scholars are able to gain a better view of Chinese society during that era.

Furthermore, the International Dunhuang Project, which began in 1994, has allowed scholars from around the world to view digital copies of the various documents of the Dunhuang Manuscripts residing in various museums. The website launch in June 2025, marks the 30th anniversary of the International Dunhuang Programme, formerly called the International Dunhuang Project.

The redesigned platform features a new logo, improved search capabilities, IIIF image viewing, and new resources. This two-year effort aims to better serve researchers and the public, leading to new and exciting discoveries in the future.