The purpose of this blog is the creation of an open, international, independent and free forum, where every UFO-researcher can publish the results of his/her research. The languagues, used for this blog, are Dutch, English and French.You can find the articles of a collegue by selecting his category. Each author stays resposable for the continue of his articles. As blogmaster I have the right to refuse an addition or an article, when it attacks other collegues or UFO-groupes.
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Deze blog is opgedragen aan mijn overleden echtgenote Lucienne.
In 2012 verloor ze haar moedige strijd tegen kanker!
In 2011 startte ik deze blog, omdat ik niet mocht stoppen met mijn UFO-onderzoek.
BEDANKT!!!
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UFO'S of UAP'S, ASTRONOMIE, RUIMTEVAART, ARCHEOLOGIE, OUDHEIDKUNDE, SF-SNUFJES EN ANDERE ESOTERISCHE WETENSCHAPPEN - DE ALLERLAATSTE NIEUWTJES
UFO's of UAP'S in België en de rest van de wereld Ontdek de Fascinerende Wereld van UFO's en UAP's: Jouw Bron voor Onthullende Informatie!
Ben jij ook gefascineerd door het onbekende? Wil je meer weten over UFO's en UAP's, niet alleen in België, maar over de hele wereld? Dan ben je op de juiste plek!
België: Het Kloppend Hart van UFO-onderzoek
In België is BUFON (Belgisch UFO-Netwerk) dé autoriteit op het gebied van UFO-onderzoek. Voor betrouwbare en objectieve informatie over deze intrigerende fenomenen, bezoek je zeker onze Facebook-pagina en deze blog. Maar dat is nog niet alles! Ontdek ook het Belgisch UFO-meldpunt en Caelestia, twee organisaties die diepgaand onderzoek verrichten, al zijn ze soms kritisch of sceptisch.
Nederland: Een Schat aan Informatie
Voor onze Nederlandse buren is er de schitterende website www.ufowijzer.nl, beheerd door Paul Harmans. Deze site biedt een schat aan informatie en artikelen die je niet wilt missen!
Internationaal: MUFON - De Wereldwijde Autoriteit
Neem ook een kijkje bij MUFON (Mutual UFO Network Inc.), een gerenommeerde Amerikaanse UFO-vereniging met afdelingen in de VS en wereldwijd. MUFON is toegewijd aan de wetenschappelijke en analytische studie van het UFO-fenomeen, en hun maandelijkse tijdschrift, The MUFON UFO-Journal, is een must-read voor elke UFO-enthousiasteling. Bezoek hun website op www.mufon.com voor meer informatie.
Samenwerking en Toekomstvisie
Sinds 1 februari 2020 is Pieter niet alleen ex-president van BUFON, maar ook de voormalige nationale directeur van MUFON in Vlaanderen en Nederland. Dit creëert een sterke samenwerking met de Franse MUFON Reseau MUFON/EUROP, wat ons in staat stelt om nog meer waardevolle inzichten te delen.
Let op: Nepprofielen en Nieuwe Groeperingen
Pas op voor een nieuwe groepering die zich ook BUFON noemt, maar geen enkele connectie heeft met onze gevestigde organisatie. Hoewel zij de naam geregistreerd hebben, kunnen ze het rijke verleden en de expertise van onze groep niet evenaren. We wensen hen veel succes, maar we blijven de autoriteit in UFO-onderzoek!
Blijf Op De Hoogte!
Wil jij de laatste nieuwtjes over UFO's, ruimtevaart, archeologie, en meer? Volg ons dan en duik samen met ons in de fascinerende wereld van het onbekende! Sluit je aan bij de gemeenschap van nieuwsgierige geesten die net als jij verlangen naar antwoorden en avonturen in de sterren!
Heb je vragen of wil je meer weten? Aarzel dan niet om contact met ons op te nemen! Samen ontrafelen we het mysterie van de lucht en daarbuiten.
21-09-2025
Quest For Mu: 200,000-Year Old Sunken Pacific Continent
Quest For Mu: 200,000-Year Old Sunken Pacific Continent
Gibel Atlantidy by N.Roerich (1929)
(Public Domain)
In the 19th century a Hindu priest introduced British army Colonel James Churchward to ancient tablets, revealing the existence of a primordial lost civilization, which led to Churchward’s lifetime quest, spanning several continents and islands, to unravel the mysteries of Mu, a Pacific continent, which was destroyed in a cataclysmic shift of the earth’s poles. He discovered remnants and relics of this 200,000-year old civilization, and considered the great civilizations of Atlantis and the old Oriental empires, India, Egypt and Babylonia, as the ‘offspring’ or dying embers of Mu.
Colonel James Churchward
(Public Domain)
James Churchward Meets The Rishi
Colonel James Churchward was born in Devonshire (southern England) in 1851. The Churchwards were an old Devonshire family with a strong Masonic background. He told friends that he had been educated at Oxford and the military academy at Sandhurst. In 1868, at only 18 years of age, he was sent to India as a young military officer. As part of the British military in occupied India, Churchward eventually rose to the rank of Colonel. His first assignment brought him to Central India to assist in famine relief, and it was here that he made a contact that would change his life. A high-ranking Hindu priest, known as a rishi from a temple school monastery befriended him, and a 12-year association began. As the friendship deepened, the rishi gave Churchward access to some very rare and mystical ancient tablets which had purportedly been hidden in the temple vaults for thousands of years. The tablets were carved with arcane symbols, and the rishi began teaching Churchward how to interpret some of the simpler signs. Churchward proved an avid student, and the lessons continued until eventually Churchward had mastered the language—supposed to be the original language of mankind!
19th- Century Marichi, a Rishi and son of Brahma.
(Public Domain)
The tablets revealed facts about the origin of civilization, and the tales they told of an advanced worldwide culture that disappeared after cataclysmic earth changes in the far distant past would “fire the dullest imagination.” After 12 years of studying Mu (as this mother civilization was known) with the rishi, Churchward felt it was time to leave India. His knowledge of the primordial civilization described on the tablets of the temple, combined with a scholar-adventurer’s curiosity and wanderlust, spurred him to search for further evidence of this civilization.
Following the Trail From Asia To Egypt
About 1880, the Colonel retired from the British military and left India for the South Seas (specifically, Tonga and the Caroline Islands). Here, Churchward found evidence for the existence of Mu in the form of rock carvings, which he deciphered using the language of Mu. These carvings, which he believed were being read correctly for the first time since the fall of Mu, prompted him to continue his search in Tibet and parts of Central Asia. One would imagine that Churchward used his status and contacts as a retired Colonel to travel relatively cheaply with military convoys, sleeping in army barracks and such. His letters of introduction from other British officers would no doubt serve him well. Travel in the late 1800s and early 1900s was expensive and slow, especially in Central Asia and the vast Pacific; even today many Pacific Islands are difficult and expensive to reach. Churchward became an extremely well-traveled man for the time period, by any standard.
Facade of the Egyptian Museum, Tahrir Square, Cairo
(Diego Delso/ CC BY-SA 3.0)
From Tibet, Central Asia and India, Churchward journeyed to Egypt where he explored the pyramids and visited the Bulaq Museum in the ancient city of Cairo (now the Cairo Museum of Egyptian Antiquities, Egypt’s main museum). Churchward examined Egyptian hieroglyphs and papyrii in light of the symbol-language of Mu and attempted to translate some of the documents in terms of that arcane language taught to him by the rishi.
Evidence Of The Pole Shift
About 1885, Churchward found his way to Siberia and the valley of the Lena River. He was now looking for evidence of ancient cataclysms, which, if it could be found, would lend credence to the idea that an ancient, advanced civilization such as Mu could disappear. Churchward wanted to see the piles of mammoth bones and tusks washed up in tidal waves on the Lackoff Islands (The Islands of Bones) just beyond the mouth of the Lena. He was convinced by these giant piles of ivory and bones that a ‘pole shift’ phenomenon had occurred in the past, where the earth’s crust slipped several degrees toward the equator causing massive tidal waves to wash over portions of the earth and ultimately cause the sinking of entire continents such as Mu.
From Siberia he made his way toward the Ural Mountains and what he called “the end of the Drift Line.” Here his trail in search of the cataclysms of the past ended, and Churchward felt he had the geological and historical proof that he needed to establish the existence of ancient civilizations. Churchward had been told by the rishi that an ancient civilization contemporaneous with Mu had existed in the Gobi Desert, and found evidence in the region to make him believe this was true. The local tradition of the land of Shambala (or Agartha) told that it was the remnant of an advanced ancient civilization that was also destroyed in the cataclysmic pole shift, with its attendant earthquakes, tidal waves and volcanic activity.
Map Pacific Islands Region
(Public Domain)
Australasia And The South Pacific Islands
Churchward then went to Australia where he worked for some years. Urged by relatives to visit New Zealand, Churchward there gathered some information from local Maoris that again sent him traveling for further evidence of Mu. He journeyed as a passenger on assorted tramp steamers going to various Polynesian Islands in the South Pacific. For over two years he explored numerous islands and island groups, including Samoa, Tahiti, the Marquesas, Tonga, the Gilbert Islands, the Cook Islands, Easter Island, Hawaii and others. Churchward believed the megalithic remains he found throughout the region, coupled with island legends of sunken continents, were the final evidence he needed to write his book on the ancient, sunken continent of Mu. He believed that he had at last substantiated the stories he had learned through his studies with the rishi.
Says Churchward: “That story is the story of Mu and her vast civilization which spread over the whole world 20,000 to 200,000 years ago, inclusive. It is the story, not only of how that civilization grew, but of how it was destroyed and lapsed into the savagery out of which our own modern culture has developed.”
William Niven (1850-1937), mineralogist and archaeologist (circa 1895)
(Public Domain).
Niven’s Tablets Of Mexico
So, James Churchward, with his extensive documentation, including photographs, personal paintings and proofs, came to America, where he settled in New York by 1888. He soon met Percy Tate Griffith, who was to become his best friend in his later years. Churchward lived in New York until his death in 1936, with the exception of two years when he joined his friend William Niven in Mexico and Central America. Niven’s discoveries of ancient buried cities in the valley of Mexico were exciting to Churchward and he joined Niven in Mexico City and traveled to the Yucatan and other areas of Central America to compare the records discovered there with those he had found the world over.
Back in New York, Percy Tate Griffith would sit in the evenings with Churchward, and they were often joined by Augustus and Alice LePlongeon. Augustus LePlongeon was a dedicated French Mason and had done much of the early excavations at Chichen Itza in the Yucatan. His book Queen Moo and the Egyptian Sphinx was published in 1900 in London and was popular among archaeologists and mystics of the time. Churchward, Griffith and the LePlongeons would sit in Churchward’s or Griffith’s study for hours talking about Atlantis, Mexico, Tiahuanaco and Churchward’s belief in his sunken continent of Mu.
The Lost Continent Of Mu
By the early 1920s and Churchward in his old age began to tell his friends of the Golden Age that had existed thousands of years ago on the sunken continent of Mu. This culminated in the self-publishing in 1926 of The Lost Continent of Mu. Churchward’s book made quite a splash at the time. It received wide attention from reviewers and became the subject of much discussion. Indeed, such groups as the Rosicrucians (AMORC) and the Lemurian Fellowship took Churchward’s books to heart and sought to elaborate on his works, with which they were largely in agreement.
Churchward's map showing how he thought Mu refugees spread out after the cataclysm through South America, along the shores of Atlantis, and into Africa
(Public Domain)
Churchward was a very good artist and filled his books with his own maps and paintings, as well as photographs he had collected in his travels. He had sketched the megalithic arch in Tonga back in 1876, probably before he ever thought he would write a book. He cut a publishing deal with the New York City publisher Ives Washburn (now defunct) for the republishing of his book, plus the publishing of his follow-up books. The Children of Mu and The Sacred Symbols of Mu came in quick succession. Said the cover blurb for The Children of Mu, a book largely about the colonization of Atlantis and the rest of the world: “When Mu, the now-lost Pacific continent, became overcrowded, colonization began... and America was one of Mu’s first colonies. From America to Atlantis to Europe and Africa the movement of colonization continued, until cataclysms destroyed Mu and Atlantis.”
The cover copy for The Sacred Symbols of Mu reads: “James Churchward continues his occult and historical explorations of the world’s most fabled lost civilization—Mu, the motherland of mankind. Stressing the common origin of all contemporary religions, Churchward’s highly unorthodox, startling theories about the ‘Sacred Inspired Writings of Mu’ suggest that this ancient text was the basis of Christianity itself! No student of the occult, comparative religion or anthropology can afford to miss the excitement.”
Churchward was a popular media figure for a few short years, and in 1934 and 1935 his final books were published. The cover copy on The Cosmic Forces of Mu, Volume One reads: “The Cosmic Forces of Mu were understood perfectly as recently as 15,000 years ago. Their application brought this lost civilization to extraordinary peaks of technology—accomplishments we are only now beginning to understand and achieve. Working from ancient tablets, James Churchward has recreated this astounding science. Everyone fascinated by prehistoric times and the occult will be gripped by The Cosmic Forces of Mu.”
The cover copy on The Cosmic Forces of Mu, Volume Two reads: “In this fifth book in his amazing Mu series, James Churchward challenges many of the theories and ‘knowledge’ of modern science with a startling new interpretation of the birth of earth based on the ancient wisdom of the lost civilization of Mu. That there was no such period as the Ice Age—and he tells what happened and why. That the center of the earth is not molten lava but gas. That Man in his present form lived through all the cataclysmic changes of the earth—and he gives archaeological proof of it.”
Colonel James Churchward died approximately one year after the publication of his final book. He died satisfied that the lessons of the rishi had filled the void that had come in his life after leaving India, and the world had now heard the rishi’s message.
Moʻai facing inland at Ahu Tongariki, on Easter Island restored by Chilean archaeologist Claudio Cristino in the 1990s
(CC BY-SA 2.5)
Excerpt From: The Children Of Mu – The Origin of Man
The Land of Mu was a large continent situated in the Pacific Ocean between America and Asia, its center lying somewhat south of the equator. Basing its area on the remains which are still above water, it would have been about 6,000 miles from east to west, and about 3,000 from north to south. All the rocky islands, individually and in groups, scattered over the Pacific Ocean were once part of the continent of Mu. About 12,000 years ago cataclysmic earthquakes rent Mu asunder. She became a fiery vortex, and the waters of the Pacific rushed in, making a watery grave for a vast civilization and 60-million people. Easter Island, Tahiti, Samoas, Cook, Tongas, Marshall, Gilbert, Caroline, Marianas, Hawaii and the Marquesas are the pathetic fingers of that great land, standing today as sentinels to a silent grave.
Map of the location of Mu (Author provided with permission
The existence of this great continent is confirmed by: Naacal tablets, books, writings, inscriptions and legends found in India, China, Burma, Tibet and Cambodia; ancient Maya books, inscriptions, symbols and legends found in Yucatan and Central America; remains, inscriptions, symbols and legends found among the Pacific Islands; stone tablets found in Mexico near Mexico City; cliff dwellers’ writings and inscriptions found in Western North America; books of old Greek philosophers; books and writings of the ancient Egyptians and legends throughout the world.
These confirmations are all given in The Lost Continent of Mu. They show that there was once a large continent of land in the Pacific Ocean called the Land of Mu. On this great continent man made his advent on earth about 200,000 years ago. The Land of Mu and the Biblical Garden of Eden were one and the same land. Both the Naacal and the Mexican tablets show clearly that man is a special creation. They also show in what way he differs from all other creations. An account of the creation is given in both sets of tablets which is very similar to the Biblical account. At the time of Mu’s destruction her people were in an exceedingly high state of civilization; as regards science she was far ahead of the present time. No wonder! She was at the end of 200,000 years of experience and development.
The great civilizations of the old Oriental empires — India, Egypt, Babylonia, etc. — were only the dying embers of Mu’s great civilization. They were her children, who withered and died without her care. All tablets, inscriptions and writings which I used in The Lost Continent of Mu are accompanied by keys for reading them. Every assertion made is accompanied by reasonable proof. The facts are there. The theories will have to take care of themselves. I wish it understood that what is revealed of the past in my writings must not be considered discoveries by me. I am simply stating what I find in writings that run from 12,000 to 70,000 years ago if the mode of keeping time was correct.
Confucius meets Lao-tzu and Buddhist Arhat (Ming Dynasty) Palace Museum, Beijing. (Public Domain)
What is disclosed in these writings is startling, yet archaeology and geological phenomena corroborate the facts without calling to our aid legends which also confirm them. Lao Tsu, the Chinese sage of 600 BC, speaks of the great learning and advancement of his prehistoric forefathers. The ancients were wise and thoughtful for those who were to come after them. They left indestructible records written on clay and stone. This wisdom is spoken of by Souchis priests of Sais to Solon the Greek, as recorded in Plutarch. These writings have been broken up and many of them lost. As they were universal among the ancients, scraps and fragments of them are found in all quarters of the earth. When put together they supplement one another to a great extent, so that by combining them we can make a beginning towards unraveling the wonders of the earth’s First Great Civilization. For over 50 years I have been hunting these scraps and putting them together so as to form the beginning of an intelligent tale of the Creation and Man. It rests with those who come after me to complete the tale.
Ancient relics, that can be traced back as coming directly from Mu, the Motherland, are extremely rare. During the past few years, I have been singularly fortunate in finding two that are at least intimately connected with Mu. Both are symbolic figures in bronze. They were either made in the Motherland or in one of the ancient Uighur cities before the eastern half of that great empire was destroyed by the north running wave of the last magnetic cataclysm which was the ‘Biblical Flood’. This wave destroyed all the country over which it ran, the people were drowned and the cities washed away or buried under the drift. The Uighur capital city today lies under 50 feet of boulders, gravel and sand. It is situated in the Gobi Desert, which today has large areas of rock only, the soil and everything with it having been washed away by the ‘Flood’. I am using one of these relics as the frontispiece of this book. It is, without question, one of the two oldest bronzes in existence. If Uighur, it is about 18,000 or 20,000 years old. If from Mu, the age cannot be estimated. This figure is a symbol of Mu as the great ruler. The fineness of the workmanship is not to be found surpassed, and very seldom equaled in any of the prominent jewelry stores in our big cities today. Both symbols have been in America for about 150 years. I know their history, but the less said about it the better since, in the Oriental home from which they were taken, they were without question sacred relics. The British Museum has three scepters which undoubtedly were manufactured in Mu before she went down.
The Deluge by Francis Danby (1840) (Public Domain)
In Mu, the Motherland, there were ten distinct tribes. Although they were physically easily differentiated, there were few variations in language, and these only of a minor character. A greater change is seen in their glyphs or writings. In the Motherland each of her people occupied its own territory; and, when various tribes took part in the colonization of a new country, they did not settle down indiscriminately, but each tribe took its own land and built its own cities as their fathers did in Mu. They settled down adjoining each other and formed a homogeneous whole. Every letter in every word in the ancient language of Mu is pronounced. Mu is pronounced Moo; A is pronounced ah; U is pronounced oo as in moon; Ta is pronounced tah; Tau is pronounced ta-oo. This original form of isolation grew with time so that the tribes eventually became separate peoples, and finally nations. And as the isolation became greater, changes in language crept in.
Adieu Professional Traveler
James Churchward was a fascinating man, and truly a man for all seasons. He was a military man and administrator, a mystic and student of ancient languages, an artist and mapmaker, as well as a calligrapher. He was also a salesman, an inventor and author. For many years he was that rarest of breed, ‘the professional traveler’.
David Hatcher Childress, is a captivating speaker and the author or coauthor of over 20 books. He is the founder of the World Explorer’s Club
Top Image: Gibel Atlantidy by N.Roerich (1929) (Public Domain)
She's remembered as one of the most powerful and seductive queens in history.
Now, explorers say they're closer than ever to finding Cleopatra's lost tomb – and it could be underwater.
They've found a sunken port in the depths of the Mediterranean Sea, about two miles off the coast of Alexandria, the historic ancient city.
And the submerged port, at a depth of about 40 feet, could lead to the remains of the lost lovers.
Cleopatra, who ruled Egypt from 51 BC to 30 BC, used her beauty and sexual allure to get what she wanted.
She famously had a long line of lovers, including Roman dictator Julius Caesar and one of his successors, Mark Antony.
Cleopatra and Antony both died by suicide and were buried together.
But ever since their death more than 2,000 years ago, their final resting place has been unaccounted for.
The port (pictured in this 3D rendering) was once along Egypt's coastline, but because of coastal erosion it is now out to sea
The submerged port, at a depth of about 40 feet, could lead to the remains of lost lovers Cleopatra and Mark Antony
Cleopatra VII, known both as a seductress with a captivating personality, used her charms to seduce Julius Caesar to cement Egypt's alliance with Rome
The offshore port, flooded with water, was once connected to Taposiris Magna, a historic city containing an ancient temple dedicated to Osiris, god of death.
Taposiris Magna, whose name means 'great tomb of Osiris', is located about 30 miles from Alexandria, which was once the country's capital.
Kathleen Martínez, an explorer and long-time hunter of Cleopatra's grave, discovered the port in a fresh round of dives with Bob Ballard, discoverer of the Titanic.
And the port, which was connected to the temple, may provide a 'crucial clue' about the tomb's whereabouts, or even lead to the location of the tomb itself.
The newly-found structure consists of columns, polished stone floors and scattered amphora, the tall jugs historically used for carrying wine – showing there was activity there.
The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, which announced the news on Facebook, calls this potential evidence of 'ancient marine activity'.
Now, it's just 'a matter of time' before the tomb is finally found, said Martínez, who has been searching Taposiris Magna since October 2005.
'After 2,000 years nobody has ever been there,' Martínez told National Geographic. 'We are the first ones.'
Seafloor map of the waters off the coast of Taposiris Magna, a historic city containing an ancient temple
The port consists of columns, polished stone floors and scattered amphora, the tall jugs historically used for carrying wine
The scattering of ancient archaeological evidence helps confirm the existence of the port, now a couple of miles offshore
Taposiris Magna temple, whose name means 'great tomb of Osiris', is located near the ancient Egyptian capital of Alexandria. Pictured, an internal view towards south of the temple
What is Taposiris Magna?
Taposiris Magna is a city in Egypt established by Pharaoh Ptolemy II Philadelphus between 280 and 270 BC. The name meaning 'great tomb of Osiris' likely comes from the great temple there.
Its position on the arm of the now dried up bed of Lake Mareotis suggests it may have played a role in trade between Egypt and Libya.
Traders from the west would be able to go by water to the harbor, then take a caravan route onwards.
The temple at Taposiris Magna is widely considered by experts to be the final resting plane of pharaoh Cleopatra and her lover Mark Antony.
Inside they found ceramic jars and pottery from the time of the Ptolemaic dynasty, of which Cleopatra was the last ruler.
Martínez believes Cleopatra was transported to Taposiris Magna after her death, carried through the underground tunnel to the direction of the port, and laid to rest there.
The tunnel points 'directly' at the port, suggesting the original function of the two are related, perhaps part of a secret network.
However, the expert can't rule out that the tomb is somewhere among the ruins of the temple, which has largely been the assumption.
'Nobody can tell me that Cleopatra is not at Taposiris Magna,' Martínez said. 'To say that you have to excavate the whole area and not find her.'
Cleopatra was Egypt's last pharaoh and the ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt, from 51 BC until her death 30 BC, at the age of just 39, after her defeat in the Roman civil wars.
She famously used her charms to first seduce Julius Caesar to cement Egypt's alliance with Rome, and then to seduce one of his successors, Mark Antony.
The tunnel, found in 2022, sits about 43 feet underneath Egypt's ancient Taposiris Magna Temple, or 'Great tomb of Osiris', located outside ancient Egypt's capital Alexandria
Experts can't rule out that the tomb is somewhere among the ruins of the temple, which has largely been the assumption. Pictured, the tunnel carved in rock
In order to fix herself and Antony as rulers in the minds of the Egyptian people, she also worked hard to associate them with the myth of Isis and Osiris.
According to the myth, Osiris was killed and hacked into pieces that were scattered across Egypt. After finding all of the pieces and making her husband whole again, Isis was able to resurrect him for a time.
Martínez thinks that the queen actually devised a plan so that the body of her and her lover would end up in a place the Romans would not even think to look.
She had to choose a location where she could feel safe for her afterlife with Mark Antony, Martínez told National Geographic.
More than 2,000 years later, whatever Cleopatra's plan was still seems to be working.
A new documentary covering the dive, 'Cleopatra’s Final Secret', will premiere on National Geographic on Thursday, September 25, and stream the next day on Disney+ and Hulu.
ANTHONY, CLEOPATRA AND THE PTOLEMAIC DYNASTY
Cleopatra, often known as the world's first celebrity, was the last of a long line to Ptolemaic rulers of Egypt – descended from Greek general Alexander the Great.
By the time of her birth, his empire had been reduced to a shadow of its former self, while the ruling class was prone to bitter in-fighting.
Married to her brother Ptolemy XIII in her father's will, she united with Julius Caesar against him - famously having herself smuggled to see the Roman general inside a carpet so she could strike terms with him.
After his murder in 44BC Egypt, Mark Anthony was appointed to oversee the eastern reaches of the Republic - including the independent kingdom of Egypt.
Though married to Octavian's sister, Anthony formed a relationship with Cleopatra and had three children with her.
Eventually Anthony and Octavian turned against one-another and fought for control of the Republic, which ended with defeat at the Battle of Actium.
Octavian chased Anthony and Cleopatra back to Alexandria, where they were eventually captured.
Anthony died in Cleopatra's arms after fatally stabbing himself, before she also committed suicide - reportedly by letting an asp bite her.
Octavian returned to Italy where he became the first Emperor of Rome, while Cleopatra and Anthony were buried in Egypt.
When you learned about the history of human evolution in school, there's a good chance you were shown one all-too-familiar image.
That picture probably showed a conga line of human-like creatures, from a primitive ape at one end to a modern man proudly strolling into the future at the other.
For many people, this iconic image captures evolution's slow but inevitable march from the simple to the complex.
But it also raises a puzzling question: If this really is how evolution works, then why are there still monkeys and apes?
Surely, if humans evolved out of primates, there's no reason that so many species should have remained so primitive.
While it might be easy to dismiss this as a trivial question, the answer actually reveals a fascinating detail of our shared evolutionary history.
In fact, it uncovers what scientists have called a 'widespread and persistent misconception' about the nature of human evolution.
So, Daily Mail asked some of the leading experts to explain why we might need to rethink our place in the evolutionary lineup.
It's a common thought that many people have about evolution, but now scientists have given their answer to why monkeys and other apes still exist if humans evolved from them (stock image)
If evolution is real, why are there still monkeys?
One common view of evolution is that it is a linear process which takes primitive species and slowly brings them closer to perfection.
Unfortunately, this is a greatly simplified perception of how evolution really works.
Professor Ruth Mace, an expert on human evolution from University College London, told Daily Mail: 'Think of the evolutionary process as tree-like. All living species are at the tips of the branches.
'Humans and monkeys are on branches that separated at some point. Both branches still exist.'
If we were to trace those branches back in time through the generations, we would eventually find that they merge into a single species.
Modern humans' closest living relatives are chimpanzees and bonobos, with whom we share about 98.7 per cent of our DNA.
We also share a lot of common traits with our primate relatives, including anatomical features, complex social hierarchies, and problem-solving skills.
Bonobos (pictured) and chimpanzees are humans' closest relatives, with whom we share over 98 per cent of our DNA. However, evolution experts say we didn't really evolve from these primate species
If humans evolved from primates, why are there still monkeys?
Humans didn't evolve from any of the monkey or primate species that we see today.
Although we do share a lot of DNA with some species, up to 98 per cent in some cases, that is because we have a common ancestor.
Between six and ten million years ago, a population of primates split into those that would become chimpanzees and bonobos and those that would become humans.
Humans and monkeys are just different branches of the same evolutionary tree, but there's no reason that one needed to disappear for the other to emerge.
It might be easy, therefore, to think that modern humans evolved from a group of chimpanzees or bonobos, leaving the rest of the species behind on a lower rung of the evolutionary ladder.
However, modern genetic data shows that this isn't the case.
Anthropologists currently think that humans split from the family containing bonobos and chimpanzees somewhere between six to 10 million years ago.
Scientists call the species at that branching point our 'last common ancestor'.
When scientists talk about early humans like the Neanderthals and Homo erectus, it can seem like modern humans replaced all the species that came before them.
This creates a misconception that every earlier species either evolved to be more human-like or died out.
However, since Darwin's 'tree of life' doesn't grow straight up like a beanstalk, but spreads like a bush, there are also lots of evolutionary 'dead ends'.
Humans branched off from the chimpanzees (pictured) and bonobos about six to 10 million years ago. They are not earlier stages on the path towards humanity, but ends of a different branch in the evolutionary tree
Most of the branches on the human family tree were evolutionary dead ends. The other human species, such as Neanderthals (pictured), eventually died off, but not because they evolved into humans
But there's no reason that any of those other branches necessarily had to go extinct; they just took different paths to our own.
Why haven't monkeys become as smart as humans?
Our evolutionary story is one of gradually improving sophistication, particularly when it comes to intelligence.
This intelligence has allowed human beings to flourish in a way no other species ever has before, pushing many other primate species close to extinction.
But if our intelligence is such a massive evolutionary advantage, why haven't our close relatives also evolved to be just as smart?
While our intelligence might seem extremely important to us, it simply isn't necessary for other species to succeed, experts said.
Professor Mace explained: 'If you live in the rainforest in groups of primates that mostly eat plant matter, then the kind of intelligence you need is not necessarily the same kind of intelligence you need if you are a carnivore who needs to hunt large prey in groups on the savannah.'
That means there's no reason for monkeys to have evolved into a more human-like species.
Chimpanzees are extremely intelligent and well-adapted to their environment. Scientists say there is no reason that they would need to evolve the kind of intelligence found in humans
Why didn't apes become as smart as humans?
Apes like chimpanzees never evolved human-level intelligence because they don't need to.
Chimpanzees are highly intelligent, showing abilities to form complex social groups, use tools, and even follow fashion trends.
However, the kind of intelligence that is required to live in the forest and eat fruit is very different from that needed to hunt large animals.
Since humans evolved in very different circumstances, we needed to be much more cooperative.
Chimpanzees don't need those abilities to thrive in their environment so they never developed them.
In fact, when it comes to evolutionary 'success', human intelligence isn't all that it's cracked up to be.
Dr John Rowan, assistant professor of human evolution at the University of Cambridge, told Daily Mail: 'Chimpanzees and bonobos do very well in their respective niches, so why not ask the reverse question: Why haven’t humans evolved to be more like chimpanzees or bonobos?
'Bonobos in particular do not engage in large-scale intergroup violence and killing, whereas we humans are constantly consumed by conflict and warfare—why haven’t we evolved to be more like bonobos?'
Contrary to common belief, humanity is not the goal towards which evolution is striving.
'It’s often assumed that the human version of a trait must be the "best", but that’s almost never the case,' says Dr Rowan.
'Humans have many interesting adaptations, but we must remember that so do all the other billions of species we share the planet with. And many are far more remarkable than human adaptations humans have!'
Could monkeys evolve into humans in the future?
However, although monkeys and apes don't have any reason to evolve human-like intelligence at the moment, that might not always be the case.
In the very far future, scientists say that some primate species could evolve to be more human-like in a Planet of the Apes-style scenario. However, that species might not resemble humans today
In the far future, or if humans were to disappear from the planet, there could be an evolutionary niche which some primate evolves to fill.
Professor Mace says: 'Every mutation happens by chance, but if species live in similar environments, there are plenty of examples of convergent evolution.
'So it is entirely possible that something not too different from ourselves could evolve, but it is not inevitable as the environment is bound to be slightly different.'
That means, a Planet of the Apes-style scenario is not entirely inconceivable in the extremely distant future.
However, whatever creature did emerge from that lengthy process of evolution might not look anything like humans as we recognise them.
Dr Edwin de Jager, a biological anthropologist from the University of Cambridge, told Daily Mail: 'Evolution doesn’t repeat itself exactly, but given enough time and the right pressures, it’s possible that some primates could evolve greater intelligence or more human-like traits.
'But they wouldn’t become human, I think they’d be something entirely new.'
The timeline of human evolution can be traced back millions of years. Experts estimate that the family tree goes as such:
55 million years ago - First primitive primates evolve
15 million years ago- Hominidae (great apes) evolve from the ancestors of the gibbon
7 million years ago - First gorillas evolve. Later, chimp and human lineages diverge
5.5 million years ago - Ardipithecus, early 'proto-human' shares traits with chimps and gorillas
4 million years ago - Ape like early humans, the Australopithecines appeared. They had brains no larger than a chimpanzee's but other more human like features
3.9-2.9 million years ago - Australoipithecus afarensis lived in Africa.
2.7 million years ago- Paranthropus, lived in woods and had massive jaws for chewing
2.6 million years ago - Hand axes become the first major technological innovation
2.3 million years ago - Homo habilis first thought to have appeared in Africa
1.85 million years ago - First 'modern' hand emerges
1.8 million years ago- Homo ergaster begins to appear in fossil record
800,000 years ago- Early humans control fire and create hearths. Brain size increases rapidly
400,000 years ago - Neanderthals first begin to appear and spread across Europe and Asia
300,000 to 200,000 years ago - Homo sapiens - modern humans - appear in Africa
54,000 to 40,000 years ago- Modern humans reach Europe
Before Stonehenge: One of Europe's Oldest Monuments Emerges in Austria
Archaeological teams in southeastern Austria have made an extraordinary discovery that pushes back our understanding of European monumental architecture by thousands of years.
Imagine standing in a vast circular arena, its earthen walls rising around you under ancient skies. Now imagine that this monument was already ancient when the first stones of Stonehenge were being dragged across the English countryside, and older still than when Egyptian pharaohs first dreamed of pyramids. In the rolling hills of southeastern Austria, archaeologists have uncovered exactly such a place: a complex of three massive circular enclosures that hosted mysterious gatherings over 6,500 years ago, making them among humanity's earliest experiments in monumental architecture.
At Rechnitz, near the Hungarian border in Burgenland province, excavations have revealed traces of three massive circular enclosures dating back over 6,500 years. These Neolithic structures represent some of Central Europe's earliest examples of organized communal construction, predating both Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids by millennia.
The discoveries form part of preparations for constructing a new Archaeological Visitor Center and open-air Stone Age Village in Rechnitz. This ambitious project, integrated within Burgenland's Masterplan Archaeology initiative, aims to transform how the public experiences prehistoric heritage through interactive exhibitions and reconstructed Neolithic settlements. Regional governor Hans Peter Doskozil emphasized that thorough documentation must precede construction, ensuring no archaeological evidence is lost records a Land Burgenland report.
Kreisgrabenanlagen: Europe's First Monumental Architecture
The centerpiece of Rechnitz's archaeological significance lies in its circular enclosures, known in German as Kreisgrabenanlagen. These monumental ditch-and-bank structures, some exceeding 100 meters in diameter, were constructed by Neolithic societies across Central Europe between approximately 4800 and 4600 BC. Their purpose remains one of archaeology's most debated mysteries, with theories ranging from astronomical observatories to ritual centers or defensive fortifications.
Rechnitz stands out because three separate circular enclosures were discovered here between 2011 and 2017 - an unusual concentration suggesting the area served as a significant regional center during the Middle Neolithic period. These structures are part of a broader network of similar monuments stretching from Austria and Hungary through Germany to the Czech Republic, indicating shared architectural traditions among early European farming communities.
The current excavations, led by Nikolaus Franz, head of Archaeology Burgenland, follow years of non-invasive archaeological surveying. Advanced geomagnetic surveys conducted by GeoSphere Austria first revealed the presence of postholes, ceramic fragments, storage pits, and ditches beneath the surface. These techniques allowed archaeologists to map the ancient settlements before physically excavating them.
The excavation trench follows the planned walkway path from the visitor pavilion to the circular enclosure, based on geomagnetic soil surveys by GeoSphere Austria. (Land Burgenland)
Franz describes the site as "a window into the Stone Age," emphasizing that the Neolithic period marked humanity's revolutionary transition from hunting and gathering to organized agriculture and permanent settlement. Bioarchaeological analysis of soil samples is underway, while the University of Vienna conducts specialized research on soil formation and geology to understand how agricultural landscapes developed in the region thousands of years ago.
Astronomical Alignments and Ritual Significance
Some researchers interpret these circular enclosures as proto-observatories, noting that many feature entrances aligned with sunrise or sunset during key agricultural seasons. This theory connects Rechnitz to other famous Neolithic astronomical sites like the Goseck Circle in Germany, considered the world's oldest solar observatory. Such alignments would have been crucial for early farming communities tracking seasonal changes essential for crop cultivation.
The monumental scale and communal effort required to construct these enclosures suggests they held profound social and possibly religious significance. Unlike earlier hunter-gatherer societies, these Neolithic communities invested tremendous resources in permanent structures designed to endure generations, symbolizing their commitment to sedentary agricultural life.
Cultural Heritage and Tourism Potential
The planned Archaeological Visitor Center represents Burgenland's commitment to making prehistoric heritage accessible to contemporary audiences. Until recently, these ancient earthworks were barely visible to the naked eye, detectable only through aerial photography and magnetometric surveys. The new facility will use reconstructions, interactive exhibitions, and educational programs to bring 6,500-year-old Neolithic life vividly to life for visitors from around the world.
This project positions Rechnitz within Austria's growing cultural tourism sector while contributing invaluable scientific data to ongoing debates about early European civilization. As construction approaches, archaeologists race against time to complete documentation, ensuring that future generations can study these remarkable testimonies to humanity's earliest monumental achievements.
The discoveries at Rechnitz confirm the town's importance within a vast prehistoric network of circular monuments that demonstrate sophisticated architectural knowledge and social organization among Central Europe's first farming communities. These findings continue to reshape our understanding of the Neolithic revolution and its lasting impact on European civilization.
Top image: Aerial view of the archaeological excavation site showing the project area for the Circular Enclosure & Stone Age Village in Rechnitz, Austria
Ancient Jesus Cup Discovered in Egypt May Contain World's First Christ Reference
A remarkable ceramic vessel discovered beneath the waters off Alexandria, Egypt, may represent the earliest known reference to Jesus Christ outside of Christian scripture. The so-called "Jesus Cup" was unearthed in 2008 by French marine archaeologist Franck Goddio during extensive underwater excavations of Alexandria's ancient harbor. The ceramic bowl, remarkably well-preserved except for a missing handle, bears a compelling Greek inscription that has sparked intense scholarly debate about early Christian influence in ancient Egypt.
The inscription, written in Greek capitals as "DIA CHRSTOU O GOISTAIS," translates to "Through Christ the chanter" or "Through Christ the magician." Dr. Jeremiah Johnston, a respected New Testament scholar, explained during a recent Trinity Broadcasting Network segment that this artifact dates to the first century AD, the precise era when Jesus was crucified, reports the Daily Mail. This timing positions the cup as potentially the earliest physical evidence of Christ's recognition outside Judea, suggesting his reputation as a powerful wonder-worker had spread across the Mediterranean world within decades of his ministry.
The cup was discovered at a submerged site that included the ancient island of Antirhodos, where Cleopatra's palace may have been located. Goddio and his team from the European Institute for Underwater Archaeology have been systematically exploring Alexandria's sunken harbor since 1992, uncovering remarkable artifacts that illuminate the cosmopolitan nature of this ancient city. Alexandria in the first century was a melting pot where paganism, Judaism, and early Christianity intersected, creating unique religious practices that incorporated elements from multiple traditions.
The bowl's design closely resembles vessels depicted on early Egyptian statuettes showing fortune-telling ceremonies. Ancient magical manuals describe how practitioners would pour oil into water and enter ecstatic trances, seeking visions of mystical beings who could answer questions about the future. According to Goddio, invoking Christ's name may have been intended to legitimize these soothsaying rituals, drawing on his already established reputation as a miracle worker.
Not all experts agree on the inscription's interpretation, highlighting the challenges of deciphering ancient texts with religious significance. Bert Smith, professor of classical archaeology at Oxford University, proposes that the engraving may reference a person named "Chrestos" who belonged to a religious group called the "Ogoistais" rather than Jesus Christ. Klaus Hallof, director of the Institute of Greek Inscriptions at the Berlin-Brandenburg Academy, supports this alternative reading, noting that historians from the bowl's era, including Strabo and Pausanias, mention deities called "Osogo" or "Ogoa."
Scholar Steve Singleton offers yet another interpretation, arguing that "chrstos" simply means "good" or "kind," translating the inscription as "[Given] through kindness for the magicians." György Németh of Eötvös Loránd University proposes a practical explanation: the bowl may have been used for preparing ointments, with "Chrstos" or "DIACHRISTOS" referring to an anointing salve rather than the biblical figure. These diverse interpretations reflect the complexity of ancient religious practices in Alexandria, where magical traditions freely incorporated names and concepts from various spiritual traditions.
Historical Implications and Significance
If the inscription truly refers to Jesus Christ, it would represent unprecedented material evidence of his existence and influence dating to the first century AD. This discovery would significantly advance the historical timeline of Christian awareness in Egypt, demonstrating that knowledge of Jesus's life and miracles had reached Alexandria within decades of his crucifixion. Such evidence would challenge historians to reconsider both the geographic spread and the speed of early Christian influence throughout the Roman Empire.
The artifact's discovery in Alexandria holds particular significance given the city's role as a center of learning and religious innovation. The famous Library of Alexandria and the city's diverse population created an environment where ideas from different cultures and faiths could merge and evolve. Early Christian communities in Alexandria were known for their theological sophistication and their ability to engage with Greek philosophy and Egyptian religious traditions, making it a logical place for Christ's reputation to have taken root quickly.
Top image: Ancient ceramic bowl discovered off Alexandria coast showing Greek inscription that may reference Christ.
Source: Jeremiah J. Johnston, Prestonwood/ Daily Mail
Giant Stone 'Doorway' Discovered in Kazakhstan Sparks Ancient Alien Debate
Explorers have stumbled upon what appears to be a massive stone doorway carved into the remote Dzungarian Alatau mountains of Kazakhstan, igniting widespread speculation about its origins. The mysterious formation, measuring approximately 40 feet tall and equally wide, has captured the imagination of social media users worldwide, with some claiming it as evidence of ancient extraterrestrial visitation. Located at 6,500 feet above sea level near the Chinese border, this enigmatic structure has sparked intense debate about natural geological processes versus human intervention.
The discovery was shared through drone footage that shows two explorers dwarfed by the imposing semi-circular formation. According to a Daily Mail report, Reddit users quickly compared the structure to famous fictional doorways from popular culture, including the entrance to Jabba the Hutt's palace in Star Wars and the Doors of Durin from J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings. The footage has gone viral across multiple platforms, with commentators ranging from amateur archaeologists to alien enthusiasts offering their interpretations of this remarkable find.
The huge door to Jabba the Hut’s palace in Star Wars, 'Return of the Jedi'.
(LucasFilm/20th Century Fox)
The Dzungarian Gate: A Historical Crossroads
The Dzungarian Alatau mountains where this formation was discovered represent one of Central Asia's most historically significant regions. This mountain range has served as a crucial passage between China and Kazakhstan for millennia, known as the Dzungarian Gate or Altai Gap. Ancient conquerors from Central Asia used this more than 3,000-mile pass as an invasion route for centuries, making it a crossroads of civilizations and cultures.
The region is renowned for its rugged terrain, featuring dramatic foothills, ridges, and ancient fortifications. Archaeological evidence suggests human presence in this area spans thousands of years, with various nomadic tribes and settled peoples leaving their mark on the landscape. Ancient petroglyphs have been discovered throughout Kazakhstan, indicating sophisticated artistic and cultural traditions among early inhabitants. The Dzungarian Gate has also been linked to mythical locations, including the legendary Hyperborea, where inhabitants supposedly lived for 1,000 years in perfect peace.
The Dzungarian Alatau mountain range at sunrise, showing the dramatic landscape where the mysterious doorway was discovered.
While social media speculation ranges from alien spacecraft entrances to ancient megalithic structures, scientists offer a more terrestrial explanation. According to the Daily Mail, Mark Allen, a professor at the University of Durham's department of Earth Sciences, suggests the formation is "to do with different weathering patterns of different rock layers" rather than artificial construction. The professor noted his experience in the region 38 years ago on the Chinese side of the border, reporting "nothing odd" about natural geological formations in the area.
Adding to the natural phenomema explanation, one Reddit user commented:
'There are a ton of these kinds of formations in Southern Utah. It's the beginning of the formation of an arch, which is very naturally occurring.'
Comparing Ancient Doorway Mysteries
The Kazakhstan discovery joins a pantheon of mysterious stone doorways that have captivated human imagination throughout history. Peru's Aramu Muru, known as the "Gate of the Gods," presents a remarkably similar phenomenon. This massive stone formation near Lake Titicaca features a carved doorway-like recess that has inspired countless theories about interdimensional portals and ancient technology. Like the Kazakhstan formation, Aramu Muru's precise geometric appearance challenges observers to distinguish between natural processes and artificial construction.
Archaeological sites worldwide demonstrate humanity's long fascination with doorway symbolism. Ancient Egyptian false doors served as spiritual passages between worlds, while megalithic structures across Europe incorporated doorway motifs into their sacred architecture. These historical examples show how doorways have consistently represented transitions, mysteries, and connections to otherworldly realms across different cultures and time periods.
The Ñaupa Waka site in Peru has an intriguingly cut altar stone, with what looks to be a doorway cut into the rock. Its origin is traditionally attributed to Inca, but this is questioned as the style and technology used to create it is not known to be Inca, and so it is likely to predate the Inca constructions that surround it, perhaps by millennia.
The Ñaupa Waka or Naupa Iglesia stone altar in Peru.
(Matthew Knot/ CC BY NC SA 2.0)
The enduring appeal of mysterious doorways reflects fundamental human psychology and spiritual beliefs. Whether formed by natural geological processes or created by ancient civilizations, these formations continue to inspire wonder and speculation about hidden knowledge, lost technologies, and connections to cosmic mysteries that extend far beyond our current understanding.
Ruins at Tiwanaku, Bolivia have fascinating cut rocks resembling doorways.
Despite scientific explanations, the Kazakhstan doorway continues generating intense interest and debate online. Social media users propose theories ranging from concealed alien bases to entrances to underground civilizations reminiscent of Tolkien's Mines of Moria. The formation's remarkable symmetry and positioning challenge even skeptical observers to consider alternative explanations beyond conventional geology.
The discovery highlights humanity's persistent fascination with unexplained phenomena and our tendency to seek extraordinary explanations for unusual natural features. Whether viewed as evidence of ancient visitation, lost civilizations, or simply remarkable geological coincidence, the Kazakhstan doorway serves as a contemporary addition to the world's collection of mysterious stone formations that continue challenging our understanding of natural and artificial boundaries.
Top image: Drone footage showing the massive stone doorway formation in Kazakhstan's Dzungarian Alatau mountains.
For centuries, humans have been scouring the universe for some kind of evidence of extraterrestrial life.
Now, social media users think it's finally been found – right here on Earth.
On Reddit, footage has emerged of explorers in front of 'a giant doorway' located in the Dzungarian Alatau mountains in Kazakhstan.
Like something from an epic movie scene, the 30-second clip shows the stunned explorers searching for a way in.
One stunned Reddit user commented that the doorway is proof of 'ancient aliens', while another asked if there's an 'alien spaceship hiding there'.
Others compared it with the 'beginning of the first Tomb Raider game' and the Doors of Durin from J. R. R. Tolkien's 'The Lord of the Rings'.
It also appears to bear similarities with the vast entrance to Jabba the Hut's palace in the Star Wars film 'Return of the Jedi'.
Millennials may also be reminded of the Temple of the Jungle King from ITV children's series 'Jungle Run'.
Explorers have found 'a giant doorway' located in the Dzungarian Alatau mountains in Kazakhstan, close to the border with China
In the Star Wars film 'Return of the Jedi' (1983), R2-D2 and C-3PO arrive at the vast door to Jabba the Hut's palace
The clip, which was also posted to X (Twitter), was filmed at the Dzungarian Alatau mountains in Kazakhstan, close to the border with China.
At an altitude of 6,500 feet (2,000 metres) above sea level, Dzungarian Alatau is known for its rugged foothills, ridges and forts.
The footage starts with a close-up of the two male explorers making cautious steps in the snow in front of a rocky mass.
Then, the airborne camera – likely attached to a drone – gradually pans out to reveal the massive semi-circular door-like formation.
Using the height of the men as a reference, the so-called 'entrance' appears to be at least 40 feet (12 metres) in height and about as wide.
But the rock behind it seems to slope downwards significantly, suggesting any secret cave beyond would have a fairly low ceiling.
On Reddit, someone pointed out: 'looks like the ridge of rock is narrower than the 'door' is tall.'
Another added: 'I mean, you can see the other side of the ridge in the drone shot. So, like.... doorway to what, the other side of the ridge?'
At an altitude of 6,500 feet (2,000 metres) above sea level, Dzungarian Alatau is known for its stunning foothills, ridges and forts
Millennials may also be reminded of the entrance to the Temple of the Jungle King from ITV children's series 'Jungle Run' (pictured)
What is the mystery doorway?
The mysterious 'doorway' in Kazakhstan has been described as a secret alien base and the 'entrance to the mines of Moria'.
More realistically, the 'doorway' could just be further evidence of 'pareidolia' - the tendency of the human mind to see patterns and symmetry.
Mark Allen, a professor at the University of Durham's department of earth sciences, said it might be 'to do with different weathering patterns of different rock layers'.
Commentators speculated on the true nature of the 'doorway', which is a different shade of brown to the surrounding rock.
One user said: 'There are a ton of these kinds of formations in Southern Utah. It's the beginning of the formation of an arch, which is very naturally occurring.'
Another user replied: 'So ancient aliens.'
A Harry Potter fan added: 'Run really fast into it and see if you end up on the other side', while a gamer said: 'It’s the doorway to a Zelda dungeon!'
Another posted: 'If it actually were a door, I’ve seen enough movies to know that something unspeakable has been sealed behind it.'
More realistically, the 'doorway' could just be further evidence of 'pareidolia' – the tendency of the human mind to see patterns and symmetry.
Mark Allen, a professor at the University of Durham's department of earth sciences, said it might be 'to do with different weathering patterns of different rock layers'.
'I was in this area 38 years ago on the Chinese side of the border [and there was] nothing odd to report,' he told the Daily Mail.
Dzungarian Alatau (pictured) lies on the boundary of the Dzungaria region of China and the Zhetysu region of Kazakhstan
Giant Stone 'Doorway' Discovered in Kazakhstan Sparks Ancient Alien Debate
Explorers have stumbled upon what appears to be a massive stone doorway carved into the remote Dzungarian Alatau mountains of Kazakhstan, igniting widespread speculation about its origins. The mysterious formation, measuring approximately 40 feet tall and equally wide, has captured the imagination of social media users worldwide, with some claiming it as evidence of ancient extraterrestrial visitation. Located at 6,500 feet above sea level near the Chinese border, this enigmatic structure has sparked intense debate about natural geological processes versus human intervention.
The discovery was shared through drone footage that shows two explorers dwarfed by the imposing semi-circular formation. According to a Daily Mail report, Reddit users quickly compared the structure to famous fictional doorways from popular culture, including the entrance to Jabba the Hutt's palace in Star Wars and the Doors of Durin from J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings. The footage has gone viral across multiple platforms, with commentators ranging from amateur archaeologists to alien enthusiasts offering their interpretations of this remarkable find.
The huge door to Jabba the Hut’s palace in Star Wars, 'Return of the Jedi'.
(LucasFilm/20th Century Fox)
The Dzungarian Gate: A Historical Crossroads
The Dzungarian Alatau mountains where this formation was discovered represent one of Central Asia's most historically significant regions. This mountain range has served as a crucial passage between China and Kazakhstan for millennia, known as the Dzungarian Gate or Altai Gap. Ancient conquerors from Central Asia used this more than 3,000-mile pass as an invasion route for centuries, making it a crossroads of civilizations and cultures.
The region is renowned for its rugged terrain, featuring dramatic foothills, ridges, and ancient fortifications. Archaeological evidence suggests human presence in this area spans thousands of years, with various nomadic tribes and settled peoples leaving their mark on the landscape. Ancient petroglyphs have been discovered throughout Kazakhstan, indicating sophisticated artistic and cultural traditions among early inhabitants. The Dzungarian Gate has also been linked to mythical locations, including the legendary Hyperborea, where inhabitants supposedly lived for 1,000 years in perfect peace.
The Dzungarian Alatau mountain range at sunrise, showing the dramatic landscape where the mysterious doorway was discovered.
(Public Domain)
Scientific Explanation
While social media speculation ranges from alien spacecraft entrances to ancient megalithic structures, scientists offer a more terrestrial explanation. According to the Daily Mail, Mark Allen, a professor at the University of Durham's department of Earth Sciences, suggests the formation is "to do with different weathering patterns of different rock layers" rather than artificial construction. The professor noted his experience in the region 38 years ago on the Chinese side of the border, reporting "nothing odd" about natural geological formations in the area.
Adding to the natural phenomema explanation, one Reddit user commented:
'There are a ton of these kinds of formations in Southern Utah. It's the beginning of the formation of an arch, which is very naturally occurring.'
Comparing Ancient Doorway Mysteries
The Kazakhstan discovery joins a pantheon of mysterious stone doorways that have captivated human imagination throughout history. Peru's Aramu Muru, known as the "Gate of the Gods," presents a remarkably similar phenomenon. This massive stone formation near Lake Titicaca features a carved doorway-like recess that has inspired countless theories about interdimensional portals and ancient technology. Like the Kazakhstan formation, Aramu Muru's precise geometric appearance challenges observers to distinguish between natural processes and artificial construction.
Archaeological sites worldwide demonstrate humanity's long fascination with doorway symbolism. Ancient Egyptian false doors served as spiritual passages between worlds, while megalithic structures across Europe incorporated doorway motifs into their sacred architecture. These historical examples show how doorways have consistently represented transitions, mysteries, and connections to otherworldly realms across different cultures and time periods.
The Ñaupa Waka site in Peru has an intriguingly cut altar stone, with what looks to be a doorway cut into the rock. Its origin is traditionally attributed to Inca, but this is questioned as the style and technology used to create it is not known to be Inca, and so it is likely to predate the Inca constructions that surround it, perhaps by millennia.
The enduring appeal of mysterious doorways reflects fundamental human psychology and spiritual beliefs. Whether formed by natural geological processes or created by ancient civilizations, these formations continue to inspire wonder and speculation about hidden knowledge, lost technologies, and connections to cosmic mysteries that extend far beyond our current understanding.
Ruins at Tiwanaku, Bolivia have fascinating cut rocks resembling doorways.
Despite scientific explanations, the Kazakhstan doorway continues generating intense interest and debate online. Social media users propose theories ranging from concealed alien bases to entrances to underground civilizations reminiscent of Tolkien's Mines of Moria. The formation's remarkable symmetry and positioning challenge even skeptical observers to consider alternative explanations beyond conventional geology.
The discovery highlights humanity's persistent fascination with unexplained phenomena and our tendency to seek extraordinary explanations for unusual natural features. Whether viewed as evidence of ancient visitation, lost civilizations, or simply remarkable geological coincidence, the Kazakhstan doorway serves as a contemporary addition to the world's collection of mysterious stone formations that continue challenging our understanding of natural and artificial boundaries.
Top image: Drone footage showing the massive stone doorway formation in Kazakhstan's Dzungarian Alatau mountains.
The island of Borneo has a history...one of the earliest human settlements discovered there that dates more than 40,000 years ago. However this face is much older than that, it goes back hundreds of thousands of years ago. A face made before humans existed…which leave only one option…ancient aliens.
Onschatbaar onderzoek begint eindelijk antwoorden te onthullen over het mysterie van een oude schedel
(Afbeelding: Wikimedia Commons/ Nadina)
Al in de jaren 60 ontdekten wetenschappers per toeval een vrijwel complete schedel in een grot in Griekenland. Sindsdien is het ding een groot mysterie. Maar eindelijk is er meer duidelijk over de leeftijd ervan.
Op twee vlakken stelt de schedel, die gevonden is in de Petralonagrot, wetenschappers voor een raadsel. Ten eerste: met wat voor mensachtige hebben we hier te maken? Het fossiel verschilt behoorlijk van zowel neanderthalers als moderne mensen. Ten tweede was tot op de dag van vandaag onbekend hoe oud de schedel is. Eerdere schattingen liepen uiteen van ongeveer 170.000 tot 700.000 jaar.
Maar over dat laatste is nu meer duidelijk geworden door middel van nieuwe zogenoemde U-serie-dateringen, die zijn uitgevoerd op het calciet dat op de schedel groeide. Daaruit blijkt dat het hoofd minimaal 286.000 jaar oud is.
Wat is U-serie-datering? De U-serie-datering maakt gebruik van de natuurlijke eigenschappen van uraniumisotopen. Uranium vervalt met een vaste halfwaardetijd tot thorium. Door de verhouding tussen uranium en thorium te meten, kun je berekenen wanneer dit proces begon en zo een nauwkeurige datum vaststellen.
In bodemlagen worden voortdurend uraniumisotopen afgezet door omgevingsfactoren, waardoor de U-seriemethode daar niet bruikbaar is: de grond bevat immers een mengsel van isotopen die allemaal hun eigen ‘klok’ hebben.
Dit gesteente is bedekt met jongere lagen, waarvan de jongste gedateerd is op 228.000 jaar. Foto: Journal of Human Evolution
De omstandigheden in een grot Maar in een grot verandert dat. Vocht dat door de bodem sijpelt, neemt wateroplosbare mineralen, waaronder uranium, mee, maar laat het thorium achter. Wanneer dit vocht zich ophoopt op een grotmuur en verdampt, blijven sporen van mineralen en uraniumisotopen achter zonder thorium. Zo vormt zich een korstachtige afzetting. Binnen die afzetting vervalt uranium verder tot thorium, maar nu in een afgesloten systeem. Elke laag krijgt daarmee een eigen startpunt dat exact te dateren is.
U-serie-datering analyseert vervolgens de uranium-thoriumverhoudingen in de binnenste lagen om vast te stellen wanneer die voor het eerst gevormd zijn. Dit levert een minimale leeftijd op voor alles wat eronder ligt.
Calciet Voor het onderzoek zijn monsters genomen van de calcietlaag die de schedel bedekte, maar ook van stalagmieten, stalactieten en calcietafzettingen in verschillende delen van de grot: de Mausoleumkamer, waar de schedel naar verluidt aan een wand vastzat, de gang ernaartoe en andere secties. Calciet is een mineraal dat voornamelijk uit het zout calciumcarbonaat bestaat. Het is een van de meest voorkomende mineralen in de aardkorst.
De resultaten van de metingen van de calcietkorst op de schedel geven een minimale leeftijd van 286.000 ± 9.000 jaar. Als de schedel aanvankelijk droog of afgedekt bleef, kan hij nog veel langer in de grot hebben gelegen, want de methode kan alleen dateren vanaf het moment dat calciet begon te vormen door blootstelling aan vocht en verdamping. Voor een maximumleeftijd wordt gekeken naar de ouderdom van andere grotelementen.
Primitieve groep Dateringen van de stalagmietlaag in de Mausoleumkamer leverden een leeftijd op van 510.000 ± 29.000 jaar bovenaan en een minimum van 650.000 jaar van binnen, wat aangeeft dat de bedekking van de schedel veel later begon dan de vorming van de grot zelf.
Op basis van hun bevindingen concluderen de onderzoekers nog iets anders interessants: de mensachtige in de Petralonagrot was geen Homo sapiens en ook geen neanderthaler. Hij maakte deel uit van een aparte, primitievere groep. Het idee dat er nog een andere mensachtige zich in die tijd in Europa ontwikkelde naast de neanderthalerlijn is niet nieuw. De nieuwe resultaten zijn hier een bevestiging van.
De Petralonagrot De Petralonagrotten zijn een grote bezienswaardigheid in Griekenland. Ze zijn te vinden op schiereiland Chalkidiki, zo’n 50 kilometer van Thessaloniki. Het enorme complex is in 1959 per toeval ontdekt. En wat een vondst: het hele gebied is zo’n 10.000 m2 groot. Op 300 meter hoogte vind je specifiek de Petralonagrot, waar met de Petralonaschedel de oudste menselijke resten van Griekenland zijn gevonden.
Drie Reusachtige Standbeelden Verrijzen uit het Zand van de Verzonken Stad in Egypte na 2.000 Jaar
Drie Reusachtige Standbeelden Verrijzen uit het Zand van de Verzonken Stad in Egypte na 2.000 Jaar
De archeologische wereld is recentelijk opgeschrikt door een baanbrekende ontdekking: de opkomst van drie enorme standbeelden uit de diepe wateren van een ondergelopen oude stad in Egypte. Deze vondst biedt niet alleen een nieuw inzicht in het oude Egyptische beschaving, maar herdefinieert ook onze kennis over de architectuur, religieuze praktijken en stedelijke planning van het oude Egypte. In dit artikel wordt de ontdekking van deze reusachtige standbeelden besproken, met een wetenschappelijke onderbouwing, voorbeelden uit vergelijkbare archeologische sites, en de implicaties voor ons begrip van de oude Egyptische samenleving.
Duikers tillen de granieten sphinxstandbeeld op uit de Baai van Abu Qir tijdens de eerste grote onderwaterhersteloperatie in Egypte in 25 jaar.
Bron: Egyptisch Ministerie van Toerisme en Oudheden
De ontdekking: een onderwaterstad herrezen uit de geschiedenis
In 2021 leidde het Egyptische ministerie van Oudheden archeologische duikers naar een onderwaterstructuur nabij de stad Herakleion, ook bekend als Heracleion of Thonis, in de Nijldelta. Deze regio was in de oudheid een belangrijk handels- en religieus centrum, vooral tijdens de Late Periode en onder Griekse en Romeinse overheersing. Het gebied was lange tijd verloren gegaan onder zand en water, totdat moderne onderwatertechnologie de verborgen wereld aan het licht bracht.
In een baanbrekende archeologische prestatie wist Egypte drie monumentale beelden terug te vorderen van de Middellandse Zeebodem bij Abu Qir Bay. Dit markeert de eerste grote onderwaterhersteloperatie van het land in 25 jaar. De bijzondere vondst omvat een enorme kwartsiet sphinx met het cartouche van Ramses II, een granieten kolos uit de late Ptolemaïsche periode, en een onberispelijk standbeeld van een Romeinse edelman in wit marmer. Deze artefacten bieden ongekende inzichten in de ondergedompelde oude beschavingen van Egypte.
De operatie werd bijgewoond door Minister van Toerisme en Oudheden Sherif Fathy, Gouverneur van Alexandrië Ahmed Khaled Hassan Said, militaire commandanten en internationale media, en onderstreept de wereldwijde betekenis van deze onderwaterarcheologische mijlpaal. De vondsten worden toegeschreven aan wat deskundigen beschouwen als de resten van een uitbreiding van de beroemde oude stad Canopus, onderdeel van het bredere Thonis-Heracleion-complex dat ooit de handelsroutes in de Middellandse Zee beheerste.
Archeologen stuitten op drie reusachtige beelden, elk ongeveer 10 meter hoog, gemaakt van graniet. Ze werden gevonden op een diepte van ongeveer 8 meter, gedeeltelijk bedekt onder sedimenten en schelpen. De beelden vertonen duidelijke kenmerken van de oude Egyptische stijl, met gedetailleerde inscripties en iconografie die wijzen op hun religieuze en culturele betekenis.
Egyptisch thema Houten/Hars Handgemaakte Schaakset met Lichten, van de Ancient Origins Winkel.
Wetenschappelijke analyse en dateringsmethoden
Om de leeftijd en herkomst van de standbeelden te bepalen, werden verschillende wetenschappelijke technieken toegepast. Radiokoolstofdatering, thermoluminescentiedatering en analyse van inscripties met behulp van hoge-resolutie fotografie en 3D-scanning werden ingezet. De inscripties op de beelden bevatten hiërogliefen die verwijzen naar de goden Amon en Osiris, en mogelijk de naam van een lokale farao uit de 18e dynastie (circa 1550-1292 v.Chr.).
De resultaten wijzen erop dat de standbeelden dateren uit de Nieuwe Rijk-periode, ongeveer 3.000 jaar geleden. Deze periode staat bekend om de grootschalige bouwactiviteiten, waaronder de constructie van tempels en standbeelden die de macht en religieuze overtuigingen van Egypte uitdrukten. De locatie van de beelden onder water suggereert dat de stad in de loop van de eeuwen is verzonken, waarschijnlijk als gevolg van seismische activiteit, veranderingen in de zeespiegel of overstromingen van de Nijl.
Egypte heeft delen van een gezonken stad onthuld die onder water ligt voor de kust van Alexandrië, waarbij gebouwen, artefacten en een oude haven blootgelegd zijn, allemaal daterend van meer dan 2000 jaar geleden.
Architecturale kenmerken en vergelijkbare vondsten - Monumenten uit de diepte: de erfenis van een farao bewaard gebleven
Het middelpunt van het herstel is een prachtige kwartsietensfinx met de koninklijke cartouche van Ramses II, een van de machtigste farao's van Egypte die regeerde tijdens de 19e dynastie (1279-1213 v.Chr.). Dit kolossale artefact vertegenwoordigt een directe link naar het hoogtepunt van de oude Egyptische keizerlijke macht, toen de monumenten van Ramses II de Nijlvallei domineerden en de Egyptische invloed vestigden in het oostelijke Middellandse Zeegebied. meldt Ahram Online.
De granieten kolos van een onbekende man uit de late Ptolemaïsche periode weerspiegelt de Hellenistische artistieke tradities die in Egypte bloeiden na de verovering door Alexander de Grote. Dit standbeeld biedt waardevol bewijs van de culturele fusie die Egypte kenmerkte tijdens de laatste eeuwen van de faraonische heerschappij, toen Griekse en Egyptische stijlen samensmolten tot unieke hybride vormen.
De drie standbeelden voor de hoogwaardigheidsbekleders, de strijdkrachten en de onderzoekers die bij het project betrokken zijn.
(Egyptisch ministerie van Toerisme en Oudheden)
De drie standbeelden vertonen opvallende kenmerken die typisch zijn voor de Egyptische beeldhouwkunst uit het Nieuwe Rijk. Ze hebben een gestileerde, symmetrische vorm met uitgebreide details in de kledij en attributen. Eén van de beelden stelt een godheid voor met een valkenkop, mogelijk Horus, terwijl de andere twee waarschijnlijk farao’s of belangrijke priesters voorstellen.
Vergelijkbare ontdekkingen zijn gedaan in de oude stad Tanis en in de beroemde Abu Simbel-tempel, waar gigantische beelden en standbeelden werden gevonden die de macht van de farao’s symboliseerden. De ontdekking van deze drie reuzen in een onderwateromgeving biedt een nieuw perspectief op de schaal en het belang van de regio in de oude Egyptische wereld.
Verzonken Egypte: Een Middellandse Zee Atlantis Onthuld
De Baai van Abu Qir is uitgegroeid tot een van 's werelds belangrijkste onderwaterarcheologische sites, met de ondergedompelde resten van steden die ooit de primaire toegangspoort van Egypte tot de Mediterrane wereld vormden. In een aankondiging op Facebook van het ministerie beschreef Mohamed Ismail Khaled, secretaris-generaal van de Opperste Raad van Oudheden, de site als een "levend getuige" van de lange geschiedenis van Egypte, waarbij hij de buitengewone archeologische betekenis benadrukte.
De site omvat een complete nederzetting uit de Romeinse periode, inclusief tempels, woongebouwen, industriële ruimtes, waterreservoirs, visbassins en een 400 voet lange commerciële kade. In de nabijheid van deze oude haven hebben archeologen het wrak gedocumenteerd van een oud koopvaardijschip, wat bewijs levert van de intensieve maritieme handel die ooit Egypte verbond met de bredere Mediterrane wereld.
Eerdere opgravingen en onderzoeken hebben een buitengewone reeks artefacten opgeleverd die meerdere beschavingen beslaan: amphorae met oude handelsmerken, koninklijke beelden, sfinxen, ushabti-figuren, stenen ankers en munten uit de faraonische, Ptolemaïsche, Romeinse, Byzantijnse en islamitische periodes. Deze opmerkelijke verzameling toont de voortdurende bezetting en het belang van de locatie door de oude geschiedenis heen aan.
Archeologische Renaissance in Egypte's Onderwatererfgoed
Deze opgravingsoperatie vertegenwoordigt een belangrijke vooruitgang in Egypte's onderwaterarcheologische capaciteiten en markeert de eerste grote onderneming sinds soortgelijke operaties een kwart eeuw geleden. Senior onderwaterarcheoloog Mohamed Mustafa onthulde dat er nog meer ontdekkingen in het verschiet liggen, waaronder een bijzonder goed bewaard gebleven oud schip dat momenteel wordt bestudeerd, wat suggereert dat het archeologische potentieel van de site nog lang niet is uitgeput.
Het witte marmeren standbeeld van een Romeinse edelman completeert deze opmerkelijke triade, die de laatste fase van de oude Egyptische beschaving vertegenwoordigt, toen het land diende als een provincie van het Romeinse Rijk. De ongerepte staat van behoud demonstreert de uitzonderlijke omstandigheden die de archeologische schatten van de Baai van Abu Qir bijna twee millennia lang hebben beschermd.
Witte marmeren standbeeld van een Romeinse edelman, hersteld uit de ondergedompelde stad in de baai van Abu Qir.
(Egyptisch Ministerie van Toerisme en Oudheden)
In de loop der tijd hebben aardbevingen en stijgende zeespiegels geleidelijk de kustgebieden van de Nijldelta onder water gezet, inclusief de belangrijke havens van Canopus en Thonis-Heracleion. Wat ooit tragedie betekende voor de oude inwoners, is een ongekende kans geworden voor moderne archeologen om deze bevroren momenten in de geschiedenis te bestuderen, bewaard onder de Middellandse Zee.
De betekenis van de standbeelden in oude religieuze praktijken
In het oude Egypte hadden grote standbeelden niet alleen een esthetische functie, maar dienden ze ook als fysieke manifestaties van de goden en farao’s, bedoeld om de kracht en aanwezigheid van het goddelijke in de wereld te brengen. Ze stonden vaak in tempels, grafkamers of op openbare plaatsen en werden onderhouden door priesters.
De herkomst en de context van de standbeelden suggereren dat de onderwaterstad een belangrijk religieus centrum was. De aanwezigheid van beelden van goden zoals Horus en Osiris wijst op een religieus complex dat gericht was op het hiernamaals en de vereringering van de goddelijke farao’s. Het feit dat deze beelden nu onder water liggen, kan betekenen dat de stad ooit werd verwoest door natuurrampen of door menselijke conflicten, waarna de beelden in de wateren zijn terechtgekomen en eeuwenlang verborgen bleven.
Technologische innovaties en onderwaterarcheologie
De ontdekking van deze standbeelden is mogelijk gemaakt door geavanceerde technologieën die sinds de 21e eeuw beschikbaar zijn gekomen voor onderwaterarcheologie. Drones, multibeam echosounders, en 3D-scanning maken het mogelijk om onderwaterstructuren gedetailleerd in kaart te brengen zonder ze fysiek te verstoren.
Daarnaast wordt gebruik gemaakt van AI-gestuurde beeldherkenning om inscripties en iconografie te analyseren, waardoor de interpretatie wordt versneld en verfijnd. Deze technologische vooruitgang stelt archeologen in staat om complexe structuren te bestuderen en meer te weten te komen over de oude beschavingen die ooit in de regio floreerden.
Implicaties voor de kennis van oude Egyptische beschavingen
De herontdekking van deze reusachtige standbeelden onder water heeft grote implicaties voor de archeologie en de geschiedenis van Egypte. Het bewijst dat er nog veel te ontdekken valt, vooral in onderwatergebieden die lange tijd onverkend zijn gebleven. Het biedt ook nieuwe inzichten in de schaal van religieuze en politieke macht die de farao’s en priesters konden uitoefenen.
Bovendien onderstrepen de beelden de complexiteit van de oude steden langs de Nijldelta, die niet alleen handels- en administratieve centra waren, maar ook belangrijke religieuze locaties. De bevindingen kunnen leiden tot herzieningen van bestaande geschiedschrijving en nieuwe onderzoeksrichtingen openen.
Toekomstige onderzoeksvoorstellen
Wetenschappers stellen voor om verdere expedities uit te voeren om meer structuren en artefacten te vinden in het gebied. Het gebruik van autonome onderwaterrobots en geavanceerde sonartechnologie kan helpen om de omvang van de onderwaterstad in kaart te brengen en nieuwe ontdekkingen te doen.
Daarnaast wordt aanbevolen om conserveringsmaatregelen te nemen om de gevonden beelden te beschermen tegen schade door zeewater en sedimenten. Samenwerking met internationale archeologische instituten en musea zal ook essentieel zijn om de vondsten te bewaren en toegankelijk te maken voor onderzoek en educatie.
Conclusie
De opkomst van drie enorme standbeelden uit de diepten van de ondergelopen oude stad in Egypte markeert een belangrijke mijlpaal in de archeologie. Het illustreert niet alleen de grandeur van de oude Egyptische beschaving, maar ook de kracht van moderne technologieën om verloren werelden te herontdekken. Deze ontdekking opent nieuwe deuren naar het begrijpen van de religieuze, culturele en politieke structuur van een van de meest invloedrijke beschavingen in de menselijke geschiedenis.
De komende jaren zullen ongetwijfeld meer inzichten en ontdekkingen opleveren, waardoor we een nog completer beeld krijgen van het rijke verleden van Egypte en haar onderwatersteden. Het is een bewijs dat zelfs na duizenden jaren, de geschiedenis nog steeds wacht om herontdekt te worden, verborgen onder het zand en water van de tijd.
The factory contained long flint blades and massive stones used to shape and mold weapons with precision.
Researchers also discovered hundreds of underground pits, some lined with mud bricks, that served as storage areas, dwellings, workshops and even ritual spaces.
The scale and sophistication of the site reveal that the Canaanites had organized settlements, specialized crafts and thriving trade networks.
This glimpse into their daily lives offers a tangible link between the archaeological record and the society described in the Old Testament.
The Bible portrays the Canaanites as the original inhabitants of the Promised Land before the Israelites arrived and conquered the territory.
Experts with the Israel Antiquities Authority said the discovery sheds light on the beginnings of urbanization and professional specialization in the ancient land.
Archaeologists have uncovered the ruins of an ancient blade factory with hundreds of pits used to craft and store weapons more than 5,000 years ago
The deep pits contained tools for creating the weapons. Archaeologists were amazed by the 'extremely advanced' technology used by the Canaanites who are mentioned in the Bible
'The most impressive findings discovered at the site are large flint cores, from which extremely sharp, uniformly shaped blades were produced,' IAA shared in a Facebook post.
'The blades themselves were used as knives for cutting and butchering, and as harvesting tools, like sickle blades.
'The production technology was extremely advanced and included the use of a kind of crane to exert precise pressure on the flint.'
The team noted that this also marked the discovery of a never-before-seen technology during that time period.
IAA's prehistorians Dr Jacob Vardi said: This is a sophisticated industry, not only because of the tools themselves, but also because of what is not found.
'The waste fragments, the debitage, were not scattered outside the site, perhaps to better protect and preserve the professional knowledge within the group of experts.
'Today, we understand that this site served as a center, from which Canaanite blades were distributed across broad regions in the Levant.'
In the Early Bronze Age, humans used tools made from natural raw materials: flint, bone, stone and ceramics.
The factory contained long flint blades and massive stones used to shape and mold weapons with precision
The most impressive findings discovered at the site are large flint cores, from which extremely sharp, uniformly shaped blades were produced
However, in this period, the Canaanite blades were the main cutting tools.
'An advanced industry was revealed at the site, requiring an extremely high level of expertise,' Dr Vardi said.
'Only exceptional individuals knew how to produce the Canaanite blades.
'This is clear evidence that already at the onset of the Bronze Age, the local society here was organized and complex, and had professional specialization.'
Archaeologists explained that the ancient tools aligned with the material culture of Canaan during Abraham's era, referring to the time period known as the Middle Bronze Age (roughly 2100-1900 BC), when the biblical patriarch Abraham is said to have lived and migrated to Canaan.
Abraham, the revered ancestor of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, is known in the Bible for his unwavering faith in God and the covenant to establish a new nation in the land of Canaan.
Moses, described in Scripture as a descendant of Abraham through Isaac and Jacob, later led the Israelites out of Egypt toward the Promised Land that was originally home to the Canaanites.
This is the first Canaanite workshop found in southern Israel
The Canaanites are mentioned several times in the Old Testament, including the books of Genesis, Leviticus, Deuteronomy and Joshua.
In the book of Joshua 3:10, God tells the Israelites that he will drive out the Canaanites before they arrive in the Promised Land.
The Israelites fought a series of wars against the Canaanites and ultimately took over most of their land - this conquest took place in the second half of the 13th century BC.
Terry Hunt, professor of archaeology at the University of Arizona, told Good Morning America: 'We think we know all the moai, but then a new one turns up, a new discovery, and in this case, it's in the lake, at the statue quarry.
'There have been no moai found in the dry lakebed before, so this is a first.'
The newly discovered moai is among the smallest found, suggesting that many more could be hidden within the reeds.
Each moai honors a person, usually a leader, and many are topped with eye stones at their resting place. The largest stands over 30 feet tall and weighs up to 86 tons.
Salvador Atan Hito, vice president of Ma'u Henua, the Indigenous group managing the island's national park, said: 'For the Rapa Nui people, this is a very, very important discovery.
'Because it's here in the lake and nobody knew it existed, even our ancestors, our grandparents didn't know about this one.'
Located in the southeastern Pacific Ocean, Easter Island was first settled by humans around AD 1200, who built its famous enlarged head statues, called moai
Archaeologists uncovered another new statue in 2023 (pictured), which would found lying face-down
Hunt and Hito said the current dry conditions may help archaeologists discover more moai in the lakebed.
'Under the dry conditions that we have now, we may find more,' Hunt told GMA.
'They've been hidden by the tall reeds that grow in the lake bed, and prospecting with something that can detect what's under the ground surface may tell us that there are more moai in the lakebed sediments.
'When there's one moai in the lake, there's probably more.'
For the past decade, Hunt and his colleagues and students have created an inventory of 981 moai on the island, complete with precise GPS locations and measurements.
Many moai remain in a quarry near Rano Raraku, the now-dry crater lake where the newest statue was found, in various stages of completion.
There's no doubt Easter Island (pictured) in the southern Pacific is geographically one of the most isolated places on Earth
The Moai are monolithic human figures carved by the Rapa Nui people on Easter Island, between AD 1,250 and 1,500
The largest, called Te Tokanga or 'The Giant' in the Rapa Nui language, was never finished and lies on its back, measuring 63 feet long and weighing an estimated 90 to 100 tons.
The team made a similar discovery in 2023, finding another new moa that measured five feet by six inches long and was found face up in the ground.
Hunt said the statue's eye sockets had been carved, which is historically the final step in a moai's construction before display.
The base is also flat, rather than sloped, to help with moving the statue.
Researchers believed that the ancient Rapa Nui people likely moved the moai statues by 'walking' them upright using ropes to rock and pivot the statues forward in a controlled, rocking motion.
This method, supported by experiments and oral traditions, allowed them to move these massive statues across the island without dragging them on sleds or rollers.
Hunt frequently uses cell phones and drones for 3D imaging of the moai.
He is also exploring the use of ground-penetrating radar to detect hidden moai or structures underground, particularly in the Rano Raraku lakebed.
Historically, the original inhabitants, known as the Rapa Nui, were believed to have been completely shut off from the wider world.
However, a study released in July by researchers in Sweden challenged the long-held narrative.
Pictured, ahu (a central stone platform) on Mo’orea, Windward, French Polynesia, southern Pacific Ocean
They said the 63.2-square-mile island in the southern Pacific was not quite as isolated over the past 800 years as previously thought.
The island was populated with multiple waves of new inhabitants who bravely traversed the Pacific Ocean from west to east. 'Easter Island was settled from central East Polynesia around AD 1200-1250,' study author Professor Paul Wallin at Uppsala University told the Daily Mail.
'The Polynesians were skilled sailors, so double canoes were used.'
For their study, the team at Uppsala University compared archaeological data and radiocarbon dates from settlements, ritual spaces and monuments across Polynesia, the collection of more than 1,000 islands in the Pacific Ocean.
The experts point out that ahu stone platforms were historically constructed at Polynesian islands further to the west.
These rectangular clearings were communal ritual spaces that, in some places, remain sacred to this day.
'The temple grounds ahu [also known as marae] exist on all East Polynesian islands,' Professor Wallin added.
Archaeologists believe they will uncover more statues in the future
The team agreed that an early population of people spread from the west of the Pacific to the east before encountering Easter Island and populating it around AD 1200.
They argued that Easter Island was populated several times by new seafarers, and not just once by a single group that remained isolated for centuries, as previously assumed.
'The migration process from West Polynesian core areas such as Tonga and Samoa to East Polynesia is not disputed here,' they say in their paper.
'Still, the static west-to-east colonization and dispersal suggested for East Polynesia and the idea that Rapa Nui was only colonized once in the past and developed in isolation are challenged.'
Based on their evidence, they also think ahu originated on Easter Island before the trend spread east to west across other western Polynesian islands during the period of AD 1300-1600.
It was only after this that the Polynesian islands, including but not limited to Easter Island, might have become isolated from each other.
The discovery was made at Mendik Tepe, near Göbekli Tepe, the 12,000-year-old site known for its monumental stone pillars and early rituals.
Experts revealed this week that the newly uncovered structures likely predate Göbekli Tepe, placing them 7,000 years before Stonehenge and extending the timeline of organized settlements and monumental building beyond what scholars once thought.
The site, located in the rural Payamlı neighborhood of Şanlıurfa's Eyyübiye district, is part of a network of prehistoric settlements that are transforming our understanding of early human societies in the Fertile Crescent.
Unlike Göbekli Tepe, famous for its T-shaped pillars adorned with intricate carvings, Mendik Tepe features upright rectangular stones, suggesting a distinct architectural and cultural identity.
Since excavations began in 2024, the team has uncovered a range of oval-shaped structures, some with elaborate stone walls and fragments of decorated stone vessels.
These findings indicate a sophisticated society capable of complex construction and artistic expression.
Dr Necmi Karul, project coordinator, said: 'Mendik Tepe is an extremely important site for understanding the first settlers in the region.'
The team uncovered buildings used for food storage, dwellings and ritual spaces
The structures vary significantly in size and function, offering clues to the social organization of these ancient communities.
Smaller buildings, measuring a few feet across, may have served practical purposes such as storage or food preparation, while medium-sized structures could have been dwellings.
Larger buildings, some reaching 13 to 16 feet in height, feature meticulous stonework that suggests ritual or communal significance.
Professor Douglas Baird, leading the excavations, highlighted a large structure's stonework, noting it may have served a ritual or communal purpose.
Preliminary findings suggest Mendik Tepe may date to the earliest phases of the Neolithic period, potentially predating both Göbekli Tepe and Karahantepe, another nearby site known for its anthropomorphic pillars.
This chronology positions Mendik Tepe as a critical piece in understanding Neolithization, the process by which humans adopted agriculture and settled communities.
The Taş Tepeler Project, launched by Türkiye's Ministry of Culture and Tourism, encompasses a dozen Neolithic sites across Şanlıurfa, including Göbekli Tepe, Karahantepe, Çakmak Tepe, and Sayburç.
These sites, dating back approximately 11,500 years, are rewriting the history of human development by revealing evidence of monumental architecture, social institutions, and early plant cultivation.
Experts noted that the new structures may predate Göbekli Tepe and are likely at least 7,500 years older than Stonehenge, placing them at the very cusp of the Neolithic Revolution
Mendik Tepe's discoveries challenge earlier assumptions that Göbekli Tepe was primarily a ritual site, as its mix of domestic and ceremonial structures suggests a more complex settlement pattern.
The presence of cereal processing and water management systems at nearby sites further indicates that these communities were experimenting with proto-agriculture, a precursor to the agricultural revolution.
'This year, we will focus on understanding the functional differences between these structures,' Professor Baird told AA.
'Were the smaller ones for storage or food preparation? Were the larger ones residences or ritual spaces? These questions are key to unlocking the site's story.'
Geographically, Mendik Tepe is a hill with an elevation of approximately 3,346 feet, located in a sparsely vegetated region with a Mediterranean climate.
The site is considered a precursor to Göbekli Tepe, which features monumental round, oval, and rectangular megalithic structures built by hunter-gatherers during the Pre-Pottery Neolithic period, between 9,600 and 8,200 BCE.
The Göbekli Tepe site is the oldest man-made structure ever found.
It features T-shaped stones while the newly found sit was designed with smaller, rectangular stones
These monuments were likely associated with rituals, most probably of a funerary nature.
The distinctive T-shaped pillars, carved with depictions of wild animals, offer valuable insight into the lives and beliefs of people living in Upper Mesopotamia around 11,500 years ago.
Archaeologists recently identified the structures as an ancient calendar, making it the oldest in the world.
The findings suggested that ancient humans had accurate ways to keep time 10,000 years before it was documented in Ancient Greece in 150 BC.
The 2024 research also revealed carvings depicting a comet strike that triggered a 1,200-year mini ice age, leading to the extinction of large animals and spurring the development of agriculture and complex societies.
Experts said the memorialized event served as the defining moment that forced the ancient people to switch from hunter-gatherer lifestyles to more permanent settlements.
The site features several stone pillars, and after a recent analysis, researchers at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland concluded that one structure was carved to be a calendar.
In 2024, researchers found that Göbekli Tepe was constructed to be a calendar
The pillar featured a 'V' symbol to represent a single day, which the team found 365 etched throughout.
The structure also included 12 lunar months with 11 additional days.
The pillar was divided into two sections with rows of 'V' symbols at the top and smaller box symbols in the lower main portion, which shows a bird holding a circular disc symbol above a scorpion.
According to the study, published in Time and Mind, the pillar features a disc that represents the sun and the scorpion is representative of the Greek Scorpion constellation.
The team also identified a tall bird bending down toward a wriggling snake, which could depict the autumnal constellation Ophiuchus.
The discovery has suggested that people recorded dates using precession, the wobble in Earth's axis which affects the movement of constellations across the sky.
In episode #2368 with Michael Button, Rogan learned for the first time about this mysterious imprint, which has been believed to be 300 million years old for many years. The wheel is said to have been discovered in 2008 in a coal mine in the Donetsk, Rostov Region (as per Alexander Koltypin).
In 2008, a very unusual discovery was made inside the “Western” coal mine in Donetsk at a depth of about 900 meters below the surface. While miners were drilling through a coal layer called the J3 “Sukhodolsky” seam, they found what looked like the clear imprint of a wheel pressed into sandstone rock above the coal. Photographs and documents about this discovery were later sent to Alexander Koltypin by a mine foreman named S. Kasatkin, who worked there and personally visited the site several times.
The source of this story is Alexander Koltypin, a Russian geologist and researcher with a distinguished academic background, having graduated with honors from the Moscow Geological Prospecting Institute and completed postgraduate work at the Russian Academy of Sciences.
Koltypin received photos and documents about the imprint from S. Kasatkin, a mine foreman who personally visited the site multiple times. Kasatkin and others witnessed the imprint before the mine was abandoned and flooded, making further study impossible.
Credit: Alexander Koltypin
Koltypin explained that the exact age of the sandstone containing the imprint was never officially recorded, since mining engineers focus on coal extraction rather than geology. However, the Donetsk region is known for Carboniferous rocks dating between 360 and 300 million years old. Koltypin believes the imprint likely comes from this Middle Carboniferous period, which would make it at least 300 million years old.
According to Kasatkin, in 2008, he was working as a foreman in the Ventilation and Safety Engineering sector, which handled dangerous gas emissions. He insisted this discovery was not a publicity stunt; he is experienced in the coal industry and knew the weight of his words.
At the time, the miners and engineers wanted to call scientists to study the object properly, but the mine’s director forbade it. The director, likely following orders from the mine’s owners, did not want to delay production. Instead, he ordered the team to continue mining quickly through that section. As a result, the imprint remained underground, blocked by collapsed tunnels and later flooded when the mine was abandoned. This meant it was never properly studied.
Despite this, some miners secretly took photographs of the imprint before the area became inaccessible. Kasatkin says there were more than a dozen witnesses, including both engineers and workers, who saw the imprint with their own eyes.
Despite this, some miners secretly took photographs of the imprint before the area became inaccessible. Kasatkin says there were more than a dozen witnesses, including both engineers and workers, who saw the imprint with their own eyes.
There was even a second imprint of a smaller wheel found in another part of the same mine (lava tunnel 0406). Unfortunately, that one was partly destroyed during blasting. Kasatkin admits he visited that spot several times and could hardly believe it might be artificial, but he could not dismiss the idea either.
According to him, older miners in Donetsk often told stories of unusual fossil-like imprints being found in the area, such as gigantic snake shapes and bird-like creatures, maybe even resembling mythical winged reptiles. The Donetsk region is known for fossils, too; nearby schoolchildren once discovered fossilized dinosaur eggs in Cretaceous deposits. Those finds were confirmed by local archaeologists and even made into a school museum exhibit.
Back to the wheel imprint, Kasatkin explained that the wheel shape was not carved out because the sandstone was so tough. The miners tried using pick hammers to cut it free, but when they realized they might damage it, they left it in place. After the “Western” mine officially closed in 2009, the tunnels were dismantled, flooded, and sealed, making the imprint impossible to reach today.
Koltypin further mentioned that a paleontologist-anthropologist named Vyacheslav Valevsky from Odessa, examined photographs of the imprint. He concluded that there was no known fossil resembling it and therefore named it the “Kasatkin Object” after the man who reported it. He compared it with several fossils that sometimes have circular shapes, but he confirmed that none matched this particular discovery.
Below is a photo of fossils that were sent to Kasatkin by V. Valevsky. He told him that all of them are known to science as fossils of the kind of “wheel”:
In 2015, Koltypin also claimed that enigmatic groove-like markings in the Phrygian Valley of central Turkey were artificially made by all-terrain vehicles and not created by any natural process. (Source)
According to mainstream scholars, the Phrygia Valley is home to ancient tracks that have been dated to different historical eras. The oldest roads are believed to have been built during the Hittite Empire, around 1600 BC to 1178 BC. Over time, the Phrygians, Greeks, and Alexander the Great’s armies carved paths into the soft rock. These paths later became a part of the Roman road network, as noted by Culture Routes in Turkey.
The team has recently returned from the site in Anatolia/ancient carsCredit: Express
Note:The Phrygians were a civilization that existed in ancient Turkey and became prominent in the 8th century BC. They had a well-functioning state, as evidenced by 260 inscriptions found throughout their kingdom in Anatolia. Their capital city, Gordium, is located at the site of the modern city of Yassıhüyük, about 43 miles (70 km) southwest of Ankara.
The ancient track marks found in the Phrygian Valley have puzzled archaeologists for a long time, with explanations ranging from Phrygian carts to speculations about ancient alien vehicles. King Midas, described in Greek legends and Assyrian sources, is the most famous king of the Phrygians. According to stories, after his defeat in the battle by the Cimmerians, he committed suicide by drinking bull’s blood.
Koltypin and his team studied the rocky terrain with deep grooves and proposed that lightweight carts or chariots did not make those tracks, but instead heavy and huge unknown vehicles from an ancient civilization. He estimated that these tracks are around 14 million years old and posited that an unknown civilization created them.
Alexander Koltypin
It was discovered that the excavations of the ancient settlement of the Indians of this nation. At first, there was a version that it was a tomb, but as the excavation progressed, scientists discovered that these were ancient baths. The structure was made of limestone, and it has been well-preserved for several centuries.
“All these rocky fields were covered with the ruts left by millions of years ago… we are not talking about human beings. The methodology of specifying the age of volcanic rocks is very well studied and worked out,” Koltypin said.
Koltypin observed that the distance between each pair of tracks found in the area is consistent and matches the distance between the wheels of modern vehicles. However, the tracks are too deep for any modern car, which raises questions about the type of transportation that might have been used.
The deepest ruts are three feet (one meter) deep, and on the walls of these ruts, there are horizontal scratches that appear to have been left by the ends of axles that were poking out of ancient wheels. This suggests that the ancient wheels were wider than the ruts, which is a characteristic of an all-terrain vehicle that would have been able to navigate through rough terrain.
The fact that the tracks are so deep also implies that the vehicle was heavy and possibly used for transporting heavy loads. These observations raise more questions about the technology and capabilities of the civilization that created these tracks, and further research is needed to understand their origins.
Koltypin argued that the weight of large prehistoric vehicles created the deep channels found in the soil and rock. He also noted that later, the ruts and the surrounding area petrified, preserving the evidence. This phenomenon is known to geologists, as similar preservation is observed in the footprints of dinosaurs.
He acknowledged that his theories are controversial and is aware that mainstream academia may not want to address the subject matter as it could potentially challenge or “ruin” their established theories. “I think we are seeing the signs of the civilization that existed before the classic creation of this world. Maybe the creatures of that pre-civilization were not like modern human beings,” he proposed.
Other locations around the world, such as the Maltese archipelago, have similar mysterious tracks that continue to perplex researchers. Some of the strange tracks in Misrah Ghar il-Kbir are particularly intriguing as they appear to lead off cliffs or continue into the ocean. The origins and purpose of these tracks remain unknown. (Source)
Some researchers believe that there was once a highly developed culture on Earth. But as a result of unknown circumstances, civilization was destroyed. This is evidenced by archaeological finds that cannot be explained from the scientific point of view of modern society. There is a theory that in the past, our planet was visited by alien representatives who shared their knowledge and technologies with people, so maybe they donated incredible technologies thousands of years ago, but then these technologies brought humanity to the brink of extinction.
Some people claim that our ancestors used so advanced technologies that in our time, it is difficult to imagine them. But some of the modern technologies may have been borrowed from the past, although almost no one knows about it. You may have heard of the ancient nuclear war hypothesis or ancient flying vehicles, which can also be found in ancient texts. It is said that our ancestors could even move in space and had knowledge about the universe that surpasses all modern knowledge.
A 450-page manuscript was examined in 1963 by Romanian engineer Doru Todericiu in Sibiu’s national archive (former Hermannstadt). Todericiu examined the manuscript’s scientific and technological substance before classifying it as a work on various artillery and ballistics difficulties, despite the fact that it had previously been known as such. He learned that Conrad Haas, the author of the manuscript’s third section, had written about some amazing concepts related to rocketry.
The Sibiu manuscript does not fit into the present history, so it draws increased attention. There aren’t many details available concerning Conrad Haas’s life. He was born not far from Vienna in Dornbach. He worked for the Imperial court of Vienna as an artillery guard and commissioned officer. He most likely traveled to Transylvania in 1551 with Imperial forces to fulfill this role, when he took the position of chief of the artillery camp at the Hermannstadt arsenal.
He penned the manuscript between 1529 and 1569, and it appears to contain, among other things, the earliest explanation of the multistage rocket’s basic operating principle. He talks about bundling rockets, stabilizing fins, and employing liquid fuel as well as describing and showing two and three-stage rockets.
The Sibiu manuscript is written in German. Many people believe that it was written using some even more ancient texts. The manuscript texts describe in detail the principles of rocketry, and there are also drawings of models of space three-stage rocket. The document contains a description of technologies for combining fireworks with weapons and even the construction of a hang glider, as well as instructions for creating fuel mixtures as liquid rocket fuel.
3-Stage Space Rockets description in Sibiu Manuscript
What’s more, there are references to flights to the moon. According to researchers from Romania, the manuscript contains stories about a man who was able to get to the Earth’s satellite due to a unique flying machine. There are also descriptions of prehistoric fuel, which consisted of several rare elements. The rockets of this type were later launched at Cape Kennedy and used by cosmonauts in the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo programs.
It looks like this chronicler visited the future world. The handwritten text of Sibiu is quite long as it consists of 450 pages. It is known that the Sibiu manuscript is genuine and the experts do not doubt this, but they are in no hurry to comment on the contents of this text.
It could be claimed that this case is just science fiction if researchers of anticity did not find other strange texts and technologies. In addition, multiple artifacts found by archaeologists confirm that our ancestors were much more civilized than modern historians imagine. Manuscripts such as Sibiu have the potential to change the way people think about our history.
Description of a rocket by Conrad Haas
It remains a mystery whether Haas succeeded in using his designs and bringing them to life. However, there are people who claim that a rocket was launched in Sibiu in 1550. It is believed that Conrad Haas created the first rocket. According to Haas, it took him more than 25 years to develop a unique aircraft. The biggest challenge, in this case, was the search for a fuel that would be sufficient to lift it into the air.
The main focus of the paper is the fuel issue. In addition to the conventional powder components of saltpeter, sulfur, and coal, Haas also used “brandy”, with the help of which the thrust development of the rockets was to be increased: “Again, take a little crushed powder and pour in enough brandy to make a little dough. Then take it and paint the little chamber (= rocket chamber) together with the little hole (= ignition hole) on the rocket by heart.” Haas also tried and used other “fuels” – significantly, the missile’s purpose dictated the particular fuel combination.
In summary, one can say that the following developmental solutions and developments can be attributed to Conrad Haas:
Multistage and cluster rocket
Arrangement of fuel sets in stage rockets
Use of different fuel mixtures depending on the rocket type, performance, area of application and design
Use of liquid fuel
delta-shaped stabilizing fins
Anticipating the idea of the modern spaceship
Although Conrad Haas designed weapons to kill, he secretly believed in basic human values. His basic humanistic attitude is particularly clear from the following statement: “But my advice is more peace and no war, leave the rifles under the roof, so the bullet won’t be fired, the powder won’t be burned wet, so the prince kept his money, the gun master his life; that is the advice Conrad Haas does.”
The technical characteristics of the rocket are similar to those of modern vehicles. It was made of wooden parts covered with a layer of special stone dust, which was supposed to protect the body from burning when rubbed against the air. Contemporaries note that in the 16th century, researchers did not know the intricacies of physical processes in the air, which is why scientists could receive information from aliens.
In addition, from his youth, he was engaged in research on ancient writings found in the territory of modern Egypt. A mission to the Moon could take place in 1550. But there is no documentary evidence to support all these claims.
Lady Sala Shabazz, the founder of the Black Inventions Museum who passed away on March 28, 2002 said once: “… Unfortunately, the individuals who are commissioned to write textbooks many times exhibited prejudice and omitted other historical information. In an effort to cover large spans of time, they have briefed history and left out so many other important facts and that’s something that many people have not been aware of.”
The city of Sibiu is known to many of us because it is the birthplace of Hermann Oberth, considered to be one of three fathers of rocketry and modern astronautics. Additionally, there is a dedicated document (ID 19770026087) in the NASA archives about the Sibiu manuscript.
Epic scene depicting the Hurrians in their mountainous homeland, combining historical and mythological elements including warriors, giants, and dragons that feature prominently in ancient Mesopotamian literature and the traditions about giants.
( Generated using Flux-Pro/Kontext/Pro AI model)
The Mountain Warriors Who Gave Birth to Giants
By Willem McLoud
In the shadowy mountains of ancient Mesopotamia, a land often called the cradle of civilization, lived a people whose very name meant "cave dwellers." These were the Hurrians—fierce mountain warriors and masterful artisans whose influence echoes through millennia of myth and scripture. Though historically overshadowed by more prominent civilizations like the Sumerians and Akkadians, the Hurrians played a crucial role in shaping some of humanity's most enduring legends, especially those involving giants, divine battles, and supernatural beings. Their story is one of mystery, resilience, and myth-making, bridging the worlds of history and legend.
The Historical Emergence of the Hurrians
The first references to the Hurrians appear in the early third millennium BCE, a period when Mesopotamian civilization was blossoming amidst chaos and innovation. During this time, the Akkadian Empire expanded across much of Mesopotamia, and alongside it, the Hurrians made their presence known in the northern regions. While the Sumerians established the earliest city-states and the Akkadians forged a vast empire, the Hurrians inhabited the mountainous and northern terrains, often serving as formidable neighbors, allies, or foes.
Scholars debate the origins of the Hurrians, but archaeological evidence offers some clarity. The city of Urkesh (modern-day Tell Mozan) in northeastern Syria was a prominent Hurrian center, with continuous settlement dating back to approximately 2700 BCE. Excavations reveal a sophisticated civilization: palaces with walls ten meters thick, intricate seals, and a rich tradition of poetry and storytelling. These people excelled not only in warfare—being renowned archers and metalworkers—but also in literature, creating epic cycles that would influence later mythologies.
Map of the Akkadian Empire showing the extent of Mesopotamian control during the third millennium BC, when the Hurrians first appear in historical records.
During the third millennium BCE, Mesopotamia was a melting pot of cultures and peoples. The Sumerians laid the foundation with their city-states and cuneiform writing, while the Akkadians expanded their influence across the region. The Hurrians, living in the northern mountains, interacted with these civilizations through trade, warfare, and cultural exchange. They often served as mercenaries, diplomats, or rivals, but their influence extended beyond mere politics.
Over time, the Hurrians established their own kingdoms and exerted considerable cultural influence. Their language, a non-Semitic tongue, has been preserved on clay tablets and seals, revealing a society rich in myth, religion, and art. Importantly, their mythology—particularly stories involving giants, divine conflicts, and cosmic battles—would leave a lasting mark on the mythic landscape of the ancient Near East.
The Mythological Legacy: Giants and Divine Beings
One of the most intriguing aspects of Hurrian influence is their contribution to mythic archetypes involving giants and divine conflicts. Ancient texts and iconography depict beings with "bodies of cave birds" or "ravens' faces," as described by early scribes. These descriptions evoke images of monstrous entities—sometimes stone giants rising from primordial seas or monstrous bird-like creatures battling gods.
Cylinder seals, small carved amulets used to secure documents or depict stories, often portray gods in fierce combat with monstrous "birdmen" or serpents—creatures that resemble the legendary dragons and giants of later mythologies. These motifs suggest that the Hurrians had a profound conceptual framework for understanding cosmic battles, divine intervention, and the origins of monstrous beings.
The stories of fallen angels, divine seed, and supernatural giants that permeate later cultures—such as Greek myth's Titans or the biblical Nephilim—may have roots in Hurrian mythic traditions. These narratives likely originated from the Hurrians' worldview, shaped by their experiences in mountainous regions where the natural landscape itself seemed alive with divine power and danger.
The Cultural Transmission of Hurrian Mythology
The influence of Hurrian myth did not remain confined to their own culture. As Mesopotamian civilizations interacted, conquered, and integrated one another’s stories, Hurrian legends found their way into the broader mythic tapestry. For instance, the famous "Kish-tribe" myths and the stories of divine battles between gods like Teshub (Hurrian storm god) and other deities echo in later Hittite and Greek mythologies.
The Epic of Kumarbi, a prominent Hurrian myth, recounts the story of a divine conflict in which the primordial god Kumarbi bites off the genitals of the sky god Anu and gives birth to a series of monstrous offspring, including the thunder god Teshub. This myth shares similarities with Greek stories of Cronus and the Titans, suggesting a shared mythic archetype that traversed cultures and centuries.
The Giants Among Men: Why Do Hurrian Myths Matter?
The recurring theme of giants, divine wars, and monstrous beings in Hurrian mythology points to a worldview that saw the natural and supernatural worlds as intertwined battlegrounds. Their mountain strongholds, perched high above the fertile plains, symbolized a place where divine and mortal realms intersected—a liminal space where giants and gods coexisted or clashed.
These stories served multiple purposes: explaining natural phenomena, reinforcing social hierarchies, and providing spiritual explanations for the chaos and order of the universe. The giants embodied primal forces—chaos, violence, and the untamed wilderness—while the gods represented order, civilization, and divine authority. The Hurrians, as mountain warriors, saw themselves as mediators between these worlds, custodians of divine secrets, and architects of mythic giants that would inspire generations.
The Enduring Echoes in Modern Cultures
Remarkably, the mythic motifs introduced by the Hurrians have persisted across cultures and eras. From Persian dragon-slaying myths to the Greek Titans and even biblical giants, their influence is undeniable. The stories of divine conflict, monstrous beings, and heroic warriors echo in countless traditions, suggesting a shared human fascination with the cosmic struggle between chaos and order.
These stories continue to inspire modern fantasy, literature, and art, reflecting a universal appeal rooted in ancient mythic archetypes. The colossal beings and divine battles of the Hurrians remind us that ancient peoples sought to understand the universe through stories—stories that, despite the passage of millennia, still resonate with our collective imagination.
Conclusion: The Giants of the Mountain Realm
The Hurrians, often overshadowed in history, were the true architects of some of the most enduring mythic images of giants, divine conflicts, and monstrous creatures. Their mountain strongholds served as the crucibles where legends were forged—a civilization of warriors, poets, and storytellers who gifted humanity a rich mythic heritage.
Through archaeological discoveries and the study of ancient texts, we can glimpse their worldview—a universe filled with cosmic battles, divine offspring, and primal forces that continue to influence our stories today. The mountain warriors who gave birth to giants remind us that beneath the veneer of history lies a profound, mythic truth: that humans have always looked to the mountains—those high places—as the birthplace of gods, monsters, and legends that transcend time.
By exploring the legacy of the Hurrians, we uncover a vital chapter in the story of human myth-making—a story that links ancient mountain warriors to the giants and divine conflicts that continue to captivate our imagination.
This is Yonaguni, the underwater structure off the coast of Japan.
Credit: Wikimedia Commons.
In the shallows off Yonaguni, Japan’s westernmost island, the sea floor drops away into shadows. A few meters down, the reef opens to reveal something vast. It doesn’t resemble a coral shelf or a sloping rock bed. Instead, divers encounter massive ledges, flat platforms, and vertical faces that look like walls. Underwater light filters across broad stone steps. The geometry is startling.
This formation, often called the Yonaguni Monument, rests around twenty-five meters below the surface. It stretches roughly 150 meters in length, with a width of about 40 meters. Sharp corners and straight lines define its structure. Some of the edges look machined. One side has what appears to be a long trench running parallel to a clean rock face. Others contain isolated monoliths that rise from the seabed like carved sentinels.
The site was discovered in 1986 by Kihachiro Aratake, a local dive tour operator. He had been scouting the area for hammerhead sharks when he spotted what looked like a manmade platform beneath him. The stone seemed too precise. He surfaced and reported what he saw. Word spread quickly. Within a few years, marine geologists and fringe theorists alike were descending with cameras, tape measures, and notebooks.
Divers exploring the Yonaguni monument near the base level.
The first impressions
Divers returning from Yonaguni often speak of disorientation. The regularity of the lines confuses depth perception. Some liken it to swimming over an ancient city plaza. Flat terraces run horizontally for several meters before dropping off into deep, squared recesses. In certain places, ledges resemble steps. One stretch of stone looks like a long avenue cut straight through the rock.
Fish dart along the edges, but coral is sparse. The formation is clean, almost sterile. Light clings to the surfaces in the early morning, casting angular shadows. When photographed from above, the whole structure looks as if it was designed, and not eroded.
Many visitors return convinced that what they saw was built. Some claim to notice channels or corner joints. Others insist they saw signs of wear or alignment too precise to be natural. Still, these observations remain anecdotal. No excavation has been conducted. Everything known about the site comes from visual study and surface dives.
Natural geology or optical illusion
The most widely accepted view among geologists is that the site is entirely natural. The rock is sandstone, layered horizontally and subject to tectonic uplift. Over time, pressure from seismic activity cracked the stone along joint lines, producing right angles. Erosion then exploited these fractures, creating straight edges and geometric shapes that only appear artificial.
What I find interesting is that in the Ryukyu Islands, similar formations can be seen above water. The cliffs along parts of Yonaguni’s coastline break into natural stair-step shapes. These exposed layers fracture cleanly, sometimes forming platforms that mimic steps or floors. The region’s seismic instability makes it likely that large blocks of stone were shifted, tilted, or dropped into place by tectonic activity.
Geologists point out that humans tend to perceive symmetry and intention where there is only chance. Patterns formed by natural processes are often mistaken for design, especially underwater, where visibility and orientation distort perception. In the case of Yonaguni, the size of the formation and its unfamiliar setting amplify this effect.
This is the underwater structure off the coast of Japan.
The case for deliberate shaping
Despite geological explanations, some researchers believe that the underwater formation may have been modified by human hands. One of the most vocal proponents of this theory is Masaaki Kimura, a marine geologist who has surveyed the site extensively. He argues that the stone faces include features that go beyond erosion and fracture.
Kimura’s team has mapped what they interpret as stairs, platforms, and even a possible relief carving of a face. He suggests the site could be the remains of a sunken temple or civic structure, possibly dating back over 10,000 years. According to his hypothesis, sea levels rose dramatically at the end of the last Ice Age, flooding low-lying settlements and preserving their foundations underwater.
The idea is not without precedent. Other submerged sites, such as those off the coast of India and Greece, have revealed ancient ruins buried beneath the sea. In those cases, artifacts, walls, and datable material have confirmed human occupation. But no such evidence has surfaced at Yonaguni.
Critics of Kimura’s work argue that his interpretations rely too heavily on visual suggestion. What he calls a staircase may be a fractured slope. What appears to be a carving may be the result of rock weathering. Without tools, ceramics, or inscriptions, the claim of intentional design remains speculative.
Archaeology remains cautious
Most professional archaeologists have kept their distance from the site. It isn’t recognized as a cultural heritage location by the Japanese government, and no formal excavation has ever taken place. The formation sits in open water and can only be reached by dive, which adds to the challenge.
The lack of artifacts matters. When people build something, they tend to leave things behind, tools, bones, broken pottery, ash from fires. At Yonaguni, none of that has turned up. The stone shows no clear signs of being carved or shaped. There are no post holes, no channels, no surfaces smoothed by repeated use.
Because of this, many archaeologists see the formation as a case of pareidolia. It’s natural to spot patterns, especially ones that look familiar, even when they aren’t intentional. The site may look impressive, but without hard evidence of human involvement, archaeology has nothing to work with. For now, the discipline stays neutral.
Cultural memory and modern myth
Over time, the site has become a magnet for alternative theories. Some writers link it to the legend of Mu, a hypothetical lost continent in the Pacific. Others connect it to flood myths or undocumented ancient civilizations. These claims, while popular online and in documentaries, are not grounded in research.
Another image of the Yonaguni monument. Wikimedia Commons.
Local oral traditions in the Ryukyus do not mention a sunken city off Yonaguni. There are no stories of cataclysm or disappearance tied to the location. The connection to Mu is a modern invention, often used to dramatize the mystery.
Still, the monument holds a grip on the imagination. Its size, setting, and silence make it compelling. It sits just beneath the surface, visible to anyone who makes the short boat trip and the short dive. The ease of access invites speculation. The lack of resolution keeps the story open.
What the site tells us now
No matter how it formed, the underwater structure off the coast of Japan shows just how easily we look for meaning in what we see. Sharp lines and flat terraces suggest intention, and the mind fills in the rest. Without artifacts or written records, people bring their own interpretations. Some see architecture. Others see geology.
The site has become a reminder of how little we can say for sure without evidence. There’s been no excavation, no datable material, and no tools or remains. Still, the debate hasn’t stopped. What keeps it going isn’t proof. It’s curiosity.
Some researchers still call for closer study. Others are convinced the explanation is already in front of us. Divers continue to visit, cameras still capture the edges, and the conversation never really fades.
The structure remains where it was found, just beneath the surface, shaped by water and time. Whether it’s a rare geological formation or the last trace of something older, it sits in silence, offering no answer.
Imagine flying high above the sun-drenched plains of southern Peru, where the land serves as a vast canvas for ancient mysteries and riddles. Carved into the desert floor are enormous drawings, known as geoglyphs, depicting spiders, hummingbirds, monkeys, and countless other figures. These extraordinary formations, called the Nazca Lines, have fascinated archaeologists, historians, and travelers for centuries. They are considered one of the most enigmatic expressions of human creativity, visible only from the sky, and their purpose remains a subject of debate and wonder.
What if I told you that, in 2024, cutting-edge artificial intelligence technology has profoundly expanded our understanding of these ancient symbols? Thanks to advancements in AI, researchers have uncovered hundreds of previously unknown geoglyphs, bringing the total number from around 70 to an astonishing 373. This discovery almost doubles the size of what we thought was the entire collection, offering new insights into the culture and beliefs of the ancient Nazca people. The AI, functioning like a highly skilled archaeologist, analyzed high-resolution satellite images and terrain data to detect subtle lines and shapes that had eluded human eyes for centuries.
Join me as we take a virtual flight over these newly revealed geoglyphs. We can explore their intricate designs and consider what they might have represented. Were they celestial markers, ceremonial sites, or perhaps symbols linked to water and fertility—crucial elements for a desert community? The sheer number and variety of the newfound figures suggest a complex network of meaning and purpose, possibly connected to religious rituals or astronomical observations.
This technological breakthrough not only deepens our appreciation of the Nazca civilization but also highlights how artificial intelligence is transforming archaeology. It allows us to peel back the sands of time and uncover secrets that have been hidden for thousands of years. As we continue to explore these mysterious lines, we gain a richer understanding of ancient cultures and their enduring quest to connect with the heavens and their environment. The Nazca Lines, once enigmatic, are gradually revealing their stories, thanks to the power of modern technology.
A Eternal Canvas
The Nazca Desert, a vast and arid expanse spanning over 170 square miles in southern Peru, has long captivated archaeologists, historians, and travelers alike. Its most famous features are the mysterious Nazca geoglyphs—massive, intricate designs etched into the desert floor that have puzzled researchers for decades. First documented by modern explorers in the 1920s, these enormous figures include animals, plants, and abstract shapes, some stretching hundreds of meters across. The Nazca people, a pre-Incan civilization flourishing between 200 BCE and 600 CE, created these geoglyphs by removing dark, reddish pebbles from the surface to reveal the lighter soil beneath, leaving behind striking contrasts visible from the air.
Until recent years, our understanding of these enigmatic figures was limited. About 430 geoglyphs had been identified through aerial surveys and ground exploration, but the desert's vastness and challenging terrain meant many remained hidden or overlooked. Small, faint figures can blend seamlessly into the environment, obscured by natural elements like windswept dunes, rocks, and erosion. Consequently, much of the desert’s potential archaeological wealth was concealed beneath the surface, awaiting new technological tools to uncover its secrets.
AI as the Ultimate Archaeologist
A geoglyph discovered in Nazca, Peru, with an annotated version to highlight the image.
Photograph: University of Yamagata
The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) has revolutionized archaeological research, especially in remote and expansive areas like the Nazca Desert. By 2025, AI had undergone a significant upgrade, transforming it into an unparalleled detective in archaeology. Researchers from Yamagata University in Japan, collaborating with colleagues from Université Paris and IBM's Thomas J. Watson Research Center, harnessed this advanced AI technology to analyze high-resolution satellite imagery and drone footage. Their goal was to detect previously undiscovered geoglyphs and patterns that human observers might miss. The software was trained to recognize subtle patterns and anomalies across over 629 square kilometers—a scale impossible for traditional survey methods.
This AI-powered approach proved remarkably successful, uncovering more than 300 new geoglyphs—an astonishing addition to what was previously known. The software could identify faint outlines, partial figures, and hidden patterns buried beneath natural layers of sediment, rocks, and sand. Its ability to analyze vast amounts of data rapidly and with high precision allowed researchers to "see" the desert in ways humans could not. It was akin to turning a blank page into a detailed story, revealing new chapters in the narrative of the ancient Nazca civilization.
The implications of these discoveries extend far beyond mere numbers. Each new geoglyph provides insights into the culture, beliefs, and practices of the Nazca people. For example, some of the newly found figures depict animals and celestial symbols, suggesting that their culture had complex astronomical knowledge and religious practices linked to the cosmos. Others appear to be part of larger, interconnected networks, indicating that these geoglyphs may have served as markers or ceremonial routes across the desert landscape. With each discovery, our understanding of the Nazca civilization becomes richer, more nuanced, and more intricate.
The research team published303 new discoveries in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, highlighting how AI can serve as an invaluable tool in archaeology. By leveraging existing data and employing sophisticated algorithms, the AI was able to locate geoglyphs with a speed and accuracy that far surpassed traditional methods. It was akin to turning a previously blank, empty book into a fully annotated manuscript, revealing hidden pages and redefining our perception of ancient human agency. The AI’s ability to process and analyze complex patterns has opened new avenues for exploring other archaeological sites worldwide, especially those difficult to access or study through conventional means.
In essence, AI has become an "eternal canvas"—a digital tool that allows us to peel back the layers of time and uncover the stories etched into our planet’s history. The Nazca Desert, once a seemingly barren and inscrutable landscape, now stands as a testament to human ingenuity and the power of technological innovation. As AI continues to evolve, so too will our capacity to explore, understand, and appreciate the enduring stories embedded within our world. Through advanced algorithms and machine learning, we can analyze ancient geoglyphs, decipher hidden patterns, and reconstruct historical narratives that were previously inaccessible. AI-driven technologies enable archaeologists to virtually excavate sites, preserving delicate environments while expanding our knowledge. The Nazca Lines, for example, are more than mere drawings; they are a window into the cultural and spiritual lives of ancient peoples. As AI tools become more sophisticated, they will unlock even more secrets buried beneath the surface, fostering a deeper connection with our past. Ultimately, this synergy between human curiosity and technological innovation promises to enrich our understanding of history, inspiring future generations to explore the mysteries that lie beneath the sands of time. The journey into our collective heritage is only just beginning, fueled by the limitless potential of artificial intelligence.
What do these geoglyphs look like? Prepare to be amazed, because there is a grand diversity of the surreal and sublime.
What do the new geoglyphs reveal? These enigmatic earth artworks provide a captivating window into the ancient civilizations that once thrived in these regions, offering a profound insight into their complex relationship with the land, the cosmos, and their spiritual beliefs. The recent discoveries of these geoglyphs have unveiled a remarkable variety of shapes, sizes, and intricate designs, each reflecting the cultural significance and artistic ingenuity of their creators. These vast ground markings often depict geometric patterns, stylized representations of animals, and abstract symbols, each crafted with meticulous precision and deliberate care. Some of these figures resemble local fauna such as llamas, condors, or snakes, suggesting a close connection to the natural environment and possibly serving as representations of local mythology or ecological importance. Others are more mysterious, consisting of concentric circles, straight lines, or complex arrangements that defy immediate interpretation, hinting at symbolic or ritualistic purposes.
The diversity of these geoglyphs indicates that multiple communities or cultures over centuries might have created these earthworks, each with their unique traditions and beliefs. Their presence hints at a shared spiritual or ceremonial significance, possibly serving as markers for sacred sites, astronomical observatories, or ritual pathways. The scale and complexity of these artworks are truly astonishing. Many geoglyphs extend across expansive areas, requiring careful planning, considerable effort, and coordinated labor to produce. Their sheer size makes them visible from the air, suggesting that their creators intended them to be seen from above—possibly as messages or offerings directed toward the heavens or spiritual realms. This aerial perspective also implies that these geoglyphs could have functioned as celestial maps or symbols, integrating terrestrial and cosmic worlds.
The surreal and awe-inspiring nature of these earthworks evokes a sense of wonder and curiosity about the minds and spiritual beliefs of their creators. Some geoglyphs bear striking resemblance to celestial symbols or cosmic motifs, hinting at advanced astronomical knowledge and a deep fascination with the universe. Their alignments and patterns may have served as astronomical calendars, marking solstices or equinoxes, or as part of religious ceremonies linked to celestial events. Overall, these recent discoveries deepen our understanding of ancient cultures and their sophisticated relationship with the land and sky. They remind us of humanity’s enduring fascination with the cosmos, the mysteries of the universe, and the ways in which our ancestors expressed their spirituality and worldview through monumental earth artworks. These geoglyphs stand as a testament to human creativity, spiritual longing, and the quest to understand our place in the universe, inspiring awe and reflection for generations to come.
Top Image:‘With a drone, you can cover several kilometers in a day,’ said Johny Isla. Composite: University of Yamagata
7 Mysterious Discoveries That Left Even Archaeologists Baffled
7 Mysterious Discoveries That Left Even Archaeologists Baffled
Archaeologists are not always faced with ordinary discoveries. Sometimes, they stumble upon things that are quite perplexing and baffling. Here are seven of the most sensational discoveries that are still to be properly explored.
1. The Voynich Manuscript
Archaeological oddities
Rather than being named for the author, the Voynich manuscript is called after Wilfrid Voynich, a book dealer who purchased the mysterious codex back in 1912. Still, nobody can identify the person behind the hand-written artifact that’s written in an unknown language. In addition to the unreadable text, it is adorned with illustrations of unidentifiable plants and objects. Naturally, the manuscript has become a source of constantly evolving conspiracy theories. The last one claims that it was created as a sophisticated practical joke. However, writing 240 pages of text using an elaborate sign system might be too much even for a prankster with ADHD.
2. The Yonaguni Monument
Discovered by a scuba diving instructor Kihachiro Aratake after he plunged into the water off the coast of the Japanese island of Yonaguni in 1986, the unsolved underwater mystery became known as ‘Japan’s Atlantis.’ A series of monoliths terraced into the side of a mountain lay six meters below the surface of the ocean. The gigantic rectangular formations with strikingly perfect 90 degree angles, straight walls, steps and columns are believed to be the remains of an ancient city that sunk due to seismic events thousands of years ago. Still, no one knows for sure.
3. Mount Owen Moa
In 1986, a group of archaeologists discovered an enormous, dinosaur-like claw when they were digging in a large cave system on Mount Owen in New Zealand. The claw was still intact with muscles and scaly skin attached to it. Later, the experts confirmed that it is a foot of now extinct wingless bird moa. The species disappeared about 2000 years ago. Moas were huge birds measuring up to 12 feet in height and up to 250 kg in weight. Unfortunately, they got hunted to extinction by our early ancestors.
4.Nazca Lines
The unusual formation of white lines that can be seen and appreciated only from the sky remains one of the world’s biggest enigmas. The purpose of trapezoid elements, strange symbols, plant structures, pictures of birds and unrecognizable beasts etched on a giant scale is still unknown. Scientists estimated that the lines were created by Nazca Indians between 500 B.C and 700 A.D. meaning that these ancient drawings remain intact for more than 2500 years. The fans of conspiracy theories believe that the lines in the Nazca desert were created as an enormous airfield for aliens.
5. Costa Rica’s Stone Spheres
Ancient stone mysteries
Still considered one of the world’s unsolved archaeological mysteries, nearly flawless spherical stones were first found in the Diquis Delta of Costa Rica during the 1930s. Hundreds more have been discovered all over the country. Ranging in size from a few centimeters to over 2 meters in diameter, the spheres sparked numerous myths and speculations. Scientists still don’t know for sure what the purpose of these mysterious polished orbs might be.
6. The Gobekli Tepe
The ancient site of Göbekli Tepe in Turkey has rewritten the early history of civilization. Since the excavations started there in 1995, the discovery has changed the way archaeologists think about the Neolithic era and the origins of humanity. Scientists dug out circular structures with elaborately carved stones and distinctive pillars that are more than 12,000 years old. It was believed that in the Neolithic period pottery and agriculture hadn’t been invented. Today, the Göbekli Tepe site possesses the most ancient cathedral developed by humankind. This significant discovery is still to be explored thoroughly explored and explained.
7. The Unfinished Obelisk
Taller than any known obelisk ever raised, the ‘Unfinished’ Obelisk is one of the most famous stones ever excavated. It could become the largest known Egyptian obelisk if it was erected. Once semi-carved from the solid bedrock, this gigantic stone block was intended to be 36m tall. It’s estimated that its weight would be between 1100 and 1150 tons.
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Over mijzelf
Ik ben Pieter, en gebruik soms ook wel de schuilnaam Peter2011.
Ik ben een man en woon in Linter (België) en mijn beroep is Ik ben op rust..
Ik ben geboren op 18/10/1950 en ben nu dus 74 jaar jong.
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