The mosaic was located in a home that was later refurbished, probably during the 3rd or 4th century.

The renovation likely contributed to the mosaic’s preservation by filling the room with construction debris, which effectively safeguarded the artwork. This discovery marks the first notable Roman artifact found at Wroxeter in 165 years.

In addition to the mosaic, the archaeological team, comprising around 30 members including 20 students, made several other intriguing finds in the Wroxeter area during their excavation in July and August. The discoveries include what researchers believe to be a shrine or mausoleum, a grand civic building situated along one of the main streets of the Roman city, and early indications of a potential nearby temple.

The public building, discovered along the city’s main thoroughfare facing the forum-basilica—the central marketplace and administrative hub—measures approximately 26 feet in width and extends over 164 feet in length. The team also found a collection of pottery vessels, both intact and fragmented.

The excavation was a collaborative effort involving Vianova Archaeology & Heritage Services, the University of Birmingham, and Albion Archaeology on behalf of the English Heritage Trust. Additionally, this teamwork ensured a comprehensive approach and thorough analysis of the findings. The project was led by Dr. Peter Guest from Vianova Archaeology, Dr. Roger White of the University of Birmingham, and Mike Luke from Albion Archaeology.

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The excavation, led by Luis Muro Ynoñán, a research scientist at the Field Museum in Chicago, was prompted by reports of looting near the Otra Banda, Cerro Las Animas archaeological site. Swift action by the local government and archaeologists prevented further damage, allowing for a meticulous study of the area beginning in June.

Initial excavations focused on a 33-foot square plot, revealing ancient walls constructed from clay and mud only six feet below the modern surface—a surprising proximity indicating the preservation of structures over millennia. Among the discoveries was a significant section of what appears to be a large temple, alongside a remarkable find: a small theatre complete with a backstage area and a staircase leading to a stage-like platform.

Ynoñán expressed excitement about the theatre’s discovery, noting its potential use for ritual performances before a select audience. The structure’s walls featured elaborately engraved mud panels depicting bird-like creatures reminiscent of mythological figures from the Initial Period (2,000 BCE to 900 BCE), a crucial era marking the beginnings of institutionalised religion in Peru.

“The Initial Period is pivotal as it marks the emergence of complex belief systems in the Andean region,” Ynoñán explained. The discovery of these religious spaces provides invaluable insights into ancient Peruvians’ early spiritual practices and cosmological beliefs.

The site also revealed large murals adorned with vivid paintings, offering further clues about its ancient inhabitants’ cultural and artistic expressions. Samples of pigments from these murals will aid in radiocarbon dating, refining our understanding of the site’s chronology and cultural evolution over millennia.

“This discovery challenges our current knowledge about the earliest forms of religious and political organisation in the Andes,” Ynoñán remarked. The findings underscore the sophistication of ancient Peruvian societies, which developed complex religious systems integral to their social and political structures.

Significantly, these newly uncovered structures predate Machu Picchu—an iconic Inca city built in the 15th century CE—by approximately 3,500 years. They also precede the pre-Inca Moche and Nazca cultures, offering a glimpse into a distant epoch when early civilisations flourished in the Peruvian landscape.

Despite the scarcity of historical records from this period, Ynoñán emphasised that archaeological evidence such as residential dwellings, temples, and funerary artefacts provide vital insights into these ancient people’s daily lives and spiritual beliefs.

“We know little about their specific identity or how they referred to themselves,” Ynoñán noted. “Our understanding derives largely from the material culture they left behind—their architectural achievements, artistic creations, and burial practices.”

As excavations continue and further analyses are conducted, researchers anticipate uncovering more clues about Peru’s early civilisations’ religious practices, social structures, and cultural dynamics. The ongoing study of the Otra Banda, Cerro Las Animas site promises to yield additional revelations about the origins and evolution of Andean cultures, enriching our understanding of human history in the region.

In conclusion, the discovery of the 4,000-year-old temple and theatre complex represents a milestone in Peruvian archaeology, highlighting ancient societies’ enduring cultural legacy and spiritual traditions. As research progresses, these findings will undoubtedly contribute to a deeper appreciation of Peru’s rich archaeological heritage and its pivotal role in shaping early civilisations in South America.

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A Window into the Past

Mleiha is one of the UAE’s most important archaeological sites, with evidence of human settlement dating back over 130,000 years. The centre provides a comprehensive look at the region’s history, from the Paleolithic era through to the pre-Islamic period. Visitors can explore a range of exhibits showcasing artifacts, fossils, and interactive displays that bring the past to life.

Recent Developments and Discoveries

The ongoing excavations at Mleiha have led to several exciting discoveries. Archaeologists have uncovered ancient tombs, tools, pottery, and even remnants of an early agricultural society. These findings provide invaluable insights into the daily lives, trade practices, and cultural exchanges of Mleiha’s ancient inhabitants.

One of the most significant discoveries is the Bronze Age tombs, which reveal sophisticated burial practices and elaborate grave goods. These tombs offer a deeper understanding of the social and religious beliefs of the time.

Exploring the Site

The Mleiha Archaeological Centre offers guided tours that take you through the key sites and discoveries. Highlights include the impressive Fossil Rock, ancient tombs, and remnants of early human settlements. The centre also features a museum with interactive exhibits, detailed maps, and informative displays that make it easy to grasp the historical context of the finds.

Educational Programs and Workshops

Mleiha is not just a site for viewing; it’s also a place for learning. The centre offers a variety of educational programs and workshops for all ages. These activities include archaeological digs, fossil hunts, and interactive lectures that provide hands-on experience and deeper knowledge of the archaeological process.

Significance of Mleiha

The significance of Mleiha extends beyond its historical artifacts. The site plays a crucial role in understanding the broader history of human migration and settlement in the Arabian Peninsula. The discoveries at Mleiha help piece together the region’s ancient past, highlighting its importance as a hub of early civilization.

Plan Your Visit

Visiting the Mleiha Archaeological Centre is a must for anyone interested in history and archaeology. The centre is well-equipped with visitor facilities, including a café, gift shop, and plenty of informational resources to enhance your experience. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family, or part of an educational group, Mleiha offers a unique and enriching adventure.

The Mleiha Archaeological Centre is a gateway to the ancient history of the UAE. With its recent developments and discoveries, it offers unparalleled insights into the region’s archaeological significance. Plan your visit today and embark on a journey through time, uncovering the mysteries of Mleiha’s ancient past.

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The research team, comprising experts from Higashi Nippon International University, Tohoku University, and Egypt’s National Research Institute of Astronomy and Geophysics, utilized cutting-edge ground-penetrating technology to explore the Western Cemetery of Giza. Situated adjacent to the Great Pyramid of Khufu, this cemetery has long been recognized as a significant burial ground for members of the royal family and high-ranking officials.

Spanning over two years, from 2021 onwards, the team conducted extensive geophysical surveys in an area described as a “blank space” within the cemetery, devoid of any visible structures or notable excavations. Employing a combination of ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and electrical resistivity tomography (ERT), the researchers penetrated beneath the surface, revealing tantalizing anomalies that hint at the presence of underground architectural features.

The initial surveys unveiled anomalies suggestive of vertical walls or shafts leading to a tomb structure. Subsequent investigations, utilizing advanced ground-penetrating radar techniques, delineated the shape of the hidden structure—an L-shaped formation measuring approximately 33 by 49 feet and lying six-and-a-half feet below the surface.

Despite these remarkable findings, the purpose of the newly discovered structure remains shrouded in mystery. Speculations range from its potential role as a tomb entrance to a construction site subsequently filled with sand. Moreover, its apparent connection to another subterranean structure, measuring 33 by 33 feet and located up to 33 feet below ground level, adds further intrigue to the enigma.

Dr Mamoru Yoshida, the lead researcher from Higashi Nippon International University, expressed cautious excitement about the discovery, emphasizing the need for further excavation to unravel the structure’s true significance. “While the initial surveys have provided invaluable insights, comprehensive excavation is essential to fully understand the function and cultural significance of this enigmatic structure,” Dr. Yoshida stated.

The revelation of this hidden architectural marvel underscores the ongoing importance of Giza as a focal point for archaeological exploration and discovery. As researchers continue to delve into the mysteries of ancient Egypt, each new finding adds another layer to our understanding of this fascinating civilization.

The discovery of the L-shaped structure near the Giza Pyramids stands as a testament to the enduring allure of Egypt’s rich archaeological heritage and the remarkable ingenuity of its ancient inhabitants.

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Director of Pompeii Archaeological Park, Gabriel Zuchtriegel, remarked on the significance of the find, stating, “History has repeated itself.” The fresco, discovered amidst ongoing excavation and restoration efforts, portrays a poignant moment in the myth of Phrixus and Helle, siblings who found themselves fleeing for their lives from their malevolent stepmother.

The scene depicted in the fresco captures Helle at the precipice of tragedy, her visage obscured as she reaches out for her brother Phrixus, who is depicted fleeing on the ram of the golden fleece. This poignant portrayal encapsulates the desperation and turmoil faced by the mythological refugees as they navigated treacherous waters, echoing themes of betrayal and survival.

The fresco was discovered within the confines of the House of Leda, a site undergoing extensive construction since 2018. Alongside this remarkable find, archaeologists have uncovered two additional domus and accompanying rooms, hinting at the potential for further revelations about life in ancient Pompeii.

Efforts are underway to open these newly discovered homes to the public, offering visitors a glimpse into the daily lives and narratives that once flourished within the ancient city’s walls.

Pompeii, forever immortalized in ash by the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE, continues to captivate the imagination of millions of visitors each year. The city’s ongoing conservation efforts, initiated in 2013 in response to UNESCO’s concerns over its preservation, have yielded a wealth of discoveries, enriching our understanding of this ancient civilization.

The discovery of the fresco depicting Phrixus and Helle adds to a string of recent finds at Pompeii, including the unveiling of a prison bakery, further underscoring the breadth and depth of archaeological treasures awaiting discovery within the city’s labyrinthine ruins.

As scholars and enthusiasts alike eagerly await further insights into the lives of Pompeii’s inhabitants, the discovery of the fresco serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of myth and the timeless resonance of human stories, even amidst the crumbling ruins of a once-thriving civilization.

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Richard Parker, the group’s secretary, marvelled at the condition of the dodecahedron, crafted from a copper alloy and boasting twelve pentagonal faces adorned with circular cutouts at their centres and studs on each corner. “It’s in an excellent condition—considering it’s been buried for 1,700 years,” Parker remarked, reflecting on the remarkable durability of the artefact.

While this dodecahedron adds to a tally of over 30 similar objects discovered across the UK, each unveiling continues to deepen the mystery surrounding their purpose. Despite their frequent appearance in Rome’s archaeological records, the function of these enigmatic artefacts remains elusive, confounding experts and sparking a plethora of theories.

Speculation abounds among archaeologists regarding the utility of these objects. Some propose they served as measuring instruments or calendars, while others entertain the notion of their use as tools or even weapons, with one curious suggestion being for knitting. However, the Norton Disney group members diverge from these interpretations, emphasizing the intricacy and craftsmanship involved in their creation. “A huge amount of time, energy, and skill was taken to create our dodecahedron,” the group asserts on its website, suggesting that such meticulous craftsmanship hints at a purpose beyond mundane tasks, particularly when alternative materials would suffice.

Instead, the group posits a more mystical explanation, contending that the dodecahedra were employed for “ritual and religious purposes.” This hypothesis draws support from several compelling observations. Firstly, most dodecahedra exhibit minimal signs of wear and tear, implying that they were cherished for their aesthetic value rather than utilized in everyday activities. Additionally, the absence of textual or visual references to dodecahedra in ancient sources raises the tantalizing possibility that they held symbolic significance, potentially linked to pagan rituals and beliefs.

The notion of the dodecahedron as a religious symbol is not without precedent. Given the tumultuous transition from paganism to Christianity within the Roman Empire, it is conceivable that references to such objects were deliberately erased from historical records as part of the Christianization process. Consequently, the true purpose and significance of these artefacts may have been obscured by the sands of time, leaving modern-day scholars to unravel the enigma of the Roman dodecahedron.

As the latest addition to a collection of perplexing relics, the Norton Disney dodecahedron serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring allure of ancient mysteries. With each discovery, our understanding of the past deepens, yet certain enigmas persist, inviting speculation and curiosity to reignite once more.

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Breaking away from the traditional local mud brick construction, this city gate was crafted from massive stone blocks, towering at almost five feet in height. The grand entrance also featured a stone passageway within the city walls, accompanied by two stone guard towers. The unique construction materials and design have intrigued archaeologists, particularly due to the coexistence of another gate built from mud brick, which is more consistent with the rest of the settlement’s architecture. By examining pottery found alongside the gates, the archaeological team determined that both gates were in use simultaneously.

The significance of the gate extends beyond its architectural marvel. In the ancient past, these gateways served as defensive structures and symbols of political, social, and economic power. The gate’s existence during a period of Egyptian unification, where the Lower and Upper Kingdoms of Egypt merged into one empire, speaks to its strategic importance and role in maintaining connections and security during a time of significant geopolitical change.

Prior to this discovery, the earliest known gate in Israel was constructed three centuries later at Tel Arad. Tel Erani, with its rich history of occupation dating back to the Chalcolithic period, particularly thrived during the Bronze Age. The archaeological evidence points to Tel Erani’s engagement in trade networks, as Bronze Age pottery found at the site suggests interactions with neighboring regions such as the Negev and the Judean Desert.

The recent excavations were conducted as part of rescue efforts, supported by funding from the Mekorot water company. The artifacts were stumbled upon by employees of the water company while they were laying new pipes, emphasizing the significance of chance discoveries in unearthing pieces of history.

The unveiling of the 5,500-year-old city gate at Tel Erani enriches our understanding of Israel’s ancient past and the intricate dynamics that shaped the region during the Early Bronze Age. The unique construction materials, dual gate design, and its historical context offer a glimpse into a world marked by both continuity and change, leaving archaeologists and historians eager to explore the untold stories held within the ancient stones.

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Gregor Wagner, an archaeologist from the Roman-Germanic Museum in Cologne, led the excavation efforts that unveiled the secrets of this historical treasure. Wagner revealed to local newspaper Kölnische Rundschau that the newly uncovered baths formed a part of an expansive private residence, showcasing what he referred to as “sophisticated furnishings.”

The baths’ amenities provided insight into the luxurious lifestyles of the Roman elite. The complex featured intricately painted plaster walls and ingeniously heated floors, allowing residents to indulge in hot, tepid, and cold baths. A particularly fascinating discovery was a boiler room, believed to have been used to heat air that would circulate beneath the floors, regulating the water temperature. The floors themselves were ingeniously supported by pillars to accommodate the heating system.

Cologne’s rich historical tapestry has been further enriched by this find, marking the fourth Roman bath complex to be unearthed in the city. Cologne, known as Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium in Roman times, was founded as a Roman colony in 50 CE, making it a treasure trove of Roman-era ruins.

Ancient Roman baths have frequently been uncovered in Western Europe, offering glimpses into the opulent living standards during the Roman Empire’s reign from 27 CE to 476 CE. The empire once spanned vast territories, stretching from present-day England to Northern Africa’s coast, and from modern Portugal to the Middle East and Egypt.

This recent discovery adds to a growing list of similar finds across Europe and beyond. Just last month, an excellently preserved Roman bath was unearthed in Mérida, Spain. In March, an ancient Roman bathhouse was revealed during an archaeological assessment near Yenne, a French village along the Rhône river. Even further afield, a Roman bath was discovered last year near the Egyptian city of Esna, at the archaeological dig of the Temple of Khnum.

As each of these discoveries unfolds, they provide invaluable insights into the daily lives, architectural prowess, and cultural practices of ancient civilizations, offering a window into the past that continues to captivate historians, archaeologists, and enthusiasts alike.

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The painting, discovered on the atrium wall, showcases a flatbread adorned with various toppings. On a silver tray beside the bread, a goblet of wine is elegantly placed. The toppings on the bread are identified as fruits, including a pomegranate and possibly a date. The bread itself is seasoned with spices or potentially pesto, while dried fruits, yellow strawberry trees, dates, and pomegranates surround it.

Pompeii, situated just outside Naples, a region renowned for its pizza-making tradition, was designated a World Heritage Site in 2017, recognizing the significance of the Neapolitan pizza maker’s traditional art.

The ancient city of Pompeii was tragically destroyed and buried in ash during the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. The volcanic ash served as a preservative, leaving behind remarkably preserved structures and even the remains of its inhabitants. Excavations of the site commenced in 1748, and the house containing the still-life fresco was partially excavated in 1888 and 1891, with recent work recommencing in January.

Gennaro Sangiuliano, the culture minister, expressed his astonishment at Pompeii’s perpetual ability to amaze, stating, “It is a casket that always reveals new treasures.” The fresco depicting food, known as xenia in ancient times, represents the tradition of offering gifts reflecting hospitality to household guests, a practice dating back to the Hellenistic period. Pompeii and other Vesuvian cities have yielded hundreds of such representations.

Gabriel Zuchtriegel, the director of the Archaeological Park of Pompeii, commented on the fresco’s significance, stating, “In addition to the precise identification of the foods represented, we find in this fresco some themes of the Hellenistic tradition, later elaborated by authors of the Roman imperial era.” Zuchtriegel referred to notable Roman writers such as Virgil, Martial, and Philostratus, who explored similar themes in their works.

Zuchtriegel also drew a thought-provoking parallel, stating, “How can we fail to think, in this regard, of pizza, also born as a ‘poor’ dish in southern Italy, which has now conquered the world and is also served in starred restaurants.” This connection highlights the evolution of culinary traditions and the enduring influence of ancient cultures on modern gastronomy.

The discovery of this fresco provides another glimpse into the rich history of Pompeii and offers a tantalizing reflection of the ancient culinary practices and traditions that continue to captivate researchers and visitors alike.

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However, Egyptian authorities expressed strong opposition to the exhibition, accusing it of presenting an “Afrocentric” approach to Ancient Egypt that they deemed to be “falsifying history.” In an email to the museum, they denounced the show and its thematic focus.

As a result of the controversy, the Dutch museum’s team, which had conducted excavations at Saqqara since 1975, has been barred from continuing its archaeological work at the important site, which is a sprawling burial ground and a significant archaeological location.

The dispute surrounding the exhibition reflects complex Egyptian perspectives on heritage and national identity. Some Egyptians feel frustrated by what they perceive as cultural misappropriation, as they believe their unique cultural heritage is being lumped together with other African cultures. Earlier, Netflix faced criticism for depicting Queen Cleopatra as a woman of color in a docuseries, with Egypt’s antiquities ministry insisting that the historical figure had Hellenistic features and light skin.

The National Museum of Antiquities in Leiden disagrees with the accusations made against the exhibition. The museum maintains that “Kemet” offers a sensitive exploration of the influence of ancient Egypt on Black musicians and encourages visitors to engage in respectful dialogue about Egypt’s cultural heritage.

The museum declined to comment further on the decision of the Egyptian Antiquities Department to revoke excavation permits. However, warning signs of the brewing storm appeared before the exhibition opened, as social media posts promoting “Kemet” faced a barrage of negative responses from Egyptian netizens. Egyptian media outlets also covered the controversy extensively. In response to the backlash, the National Museum of Antiquities created a supplementary webpage to provide more information about the exhibition’s background and goals.

The “Kemet: Egypt in Hip Hop, Jazz, Soul & Funk” exhibition offers visitors a journey through musical history, immersing them in both ancient and modern music. It showcases pioneering artists from jazz, funk, soul, pop, and rap genres through exhibits, artifacts, and listening experiences.

The exhibition will continue to run until September 3, despite the expulsion of the Dutch archaeologists from Saqqara.

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