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!!!
Een interessant adres?
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.
10-04-2025
Dinosaurs Were Thriving Before Asteroid Strike of 66 Million Years Ago
Dinosaurs Were Thriving Before Asteroid Strike of 66 Million Years Ago
The idea that dinosaurs were already in decline before an asteroid wiped most of them out 66 million years ago may be explained by a worsening fossil record from that time rather than a genuine dwindling of dinosaur species, suggests a new study led by University College London (UCL) researchers.
The study, published in Current Biology, analyzed the fossil record of North America in the 18 million years up to the asteroid impact at the end of the Cretaceous period (between 66 and 84 million years ago). Taken at face value, these fossils—more than 8,000 of them—suggest the number of dinosaur species peaked about 75 million years ago and then declined in the nine million years leading up to the asteroid impact.
But the research team found this trend was due to fossils from that time being less likely to be discovered, primarily because of fewer locations with exposed and accessible rock from the very latest Cretaceous.
Lead author Dr Chris Dean (UCL Earth Sciences) said: “It’s been a subject of debate for more than 30 years— were dinosaurs doomed and already on their way out before the asteroid hit?” said study lead author Dr Chris Dean of the UCL Earth Sciences Department. “We analyzed the fossil record and found that the quality of the record of four groups of dinosaur (clades) gets worse during the final six million years prior to the asteroid. The probability of finding dinosaur fossils decreases, while the likelihood of dinosaurs having lived in these areas at the time is stable. This shows we can’t take the fossil record at face value.
“Half the fossils we have from this time were found in North America,” he continued. “Our findings hint that, in this region at least, dinosaurs may have been doing better than previously suggested in the lead-up to the asteroid impact, potentially with a higher diversity of species than we see in the raw rock record.”
Red Gulch Dinosaur Tracksite, largest dinosaur tracksite in Wyoming.
For the study, the research team looked at the dinosaur clades Ankylosauridae (armored herbivores such as club-tailed Ankylosaurus), Ceratopsidae (large three-horned herbivores including Triceratops), Hadrosauridae (duck-billed herbivores such as the Edmontosaurus), and Tyrannosauridae (carnivores such as Tyrannosaurus Rex). They adopted a technique, occupancy modeling, previously used in ecology and biodiversity studies to estimate how likely a species is to inhabit a particular area.
Tyrannosaurus rex holotype specimen at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, Pittsburgh.
They divided North America into a grid and, based on the geology, geography and climate of the time, estimated how many of these grid cells the four dinosaur types likely occupied at four different times during the last 18 million years of the Cretaceous. They found that, during this time, the proportion of land the four dinosaur clades likely occupied remained constant overall, suggesting their potential habitat area remained stable and risk of extinction stayed low.
At the same time, they estimated the likelihood of the four dinosaur types being detected in each area, based on factors such as how much land is accessible to researchers (i.e., if it is covered in vegetation), how much relevant rock is exposed, and how many times researchers had attempted to find fossils from that area.
The team found that the likelihood of detection declined over the four time periods, with the most influential factor being how much relevant rock was exposed and accessible. The researchers also found that, in contrast to the other three clades, Ceratopsian dinosaurs (such as Triceratops) were more likely to be detected later on in this period, as well as occupying more areas. They suggested this was due to Ceratopsians favoring green plains away from rivers at a time when this kind of habitat became the main type of environment being preserved. This was due to the retreat of a large inland sea that split the continent in two and river systems feeding this sea drying up.
“If we take the fossil record at face value, we might conclude dinosaurs were already experiencing a decline before their final extinction,” said study co-author Dr Alessandro Chiarenza (UCL Earth Sciences), who has previously published on end-Cretaceous dinosaur diversity and extinction. “In this study, we show that this apparent decline is more likely a result of a reduced sampling window, caused by geological changes in these terminal Mesozoic fossil-bearing layers—driven by processes such as tectonics, mountain uplift, and sea-level retreat—rather than genuine fluctuations in biodiversity.”
Triceratops mounted skeleton at Los Angeles Museum of Natural History, Los Angeles.
This challenges the notion that dinosaurs were going to go extinct no matter what happened. They may in fact have been quite adaptable, and able to survive normal climate variations
“Dinosaurs were probably not inevitably doomed to extinction at the end of the Mesozoic. If it weren’t for that asteroid, they might still share this planet with mammals, lizards, and their surviving descendants: birds,” Dr Chiarenza concluded.
Alternative Scenarios
But is the last statement by Dr Chiarenza really true? There seems room for doubt.
While dinosaurs might have survived into the modern age, its impossible not to wonder how they would have coped with human hunters during the pre-agricultural, hunter-gatherer era. Its possible that many if not most dinosaur species would have been hunted into extinction, possibly by Neanderthals as well as by modern humans (with that extra food source, maybe the Neanderthals would have survived!) The largest dinosaurs would have been especially vulnerable, and perhaps only smaller species that were not as attractive as food sources would have still been around.
Then again, its also possible that the presence of dinosaurs might have hindered the evolutionary path of humans, meaning we would never have appeared on the planet beside them. And if we hadn’t, perhaps super-intelligent dinosaurs would have evolved to fill our niche.
All of this is speculation, but there is no doubt things could have been substantially different if the asteroid that killed the dinosaurs had never arrived. This might have remained a dinosaur planet forever, with or without humans living alongside them.
Top image: Reconstruction of a late Maastrichtian (~66 million years ago) palaeoenvironment in North America, where a floodplain is roamed by dinosaurs like Tyrannosaurus rex, Edmontosaurus annectens and Triceratops prorsus.
A sunken 'pyramid' near Taiwan may rewrite everything we thought we knew about the ancient world.
Sitting just 82 feet below sea level near the Ryukyu Islands of Japan, a mysterious object called the Yonaguni monument continues to stump and astonish researchers since its discovery in 1986.
This giant structure with sharp-angled steps stands roughly 90 feet tall and appears to be made entirely of stone, leading many to believe it was man-made.
However, tests of the stone show it to be over 10,000 years old, meaning that if a civilization built this pyramid by hand, it would have taken place before this region sank under water - more than 12,000 years ago.
That would place it further back in history than most other ancient structures by several thousand years, including the Egyptian pyramids and Stonehenge.
Currently, scientists believe that the ability for ancient humans to construct large structures like temples and pyramids evolved alongside the development of agriculture 12,000 years ago.
If an advanced society was already building giant step pyramids long before this time, however, it could change the history books forever and reveal another lost tribe of humans - just like the myths of Atlantis.
In fact, Yonaguni monument is often called 'Japan's Atlantis,' but skeptics continue to poke holes in the theory that this structure was actually built by human hands.
Yonaguni monument was discovered by divers nearly 40 years ago, roughly 60 miles to the east of Taiwan
Although skeptics say it's a natural rock formation, Yonaguni monument has a pyramid shape with shockingly straight steps that appear carved
The site recently gained widespread attention after scientists sparred over its origins on the Joe Rogen Experience podcast.
Graham Hancock, an author focused on lost civilizations and archaeologist Flint Dibble debated over the pictures of Yonaguni monument, with Dibble refusing to concede that any of the structures found by divers could have been made by humans.
'I've seen a lot of crazy natural stuff and I see nothing here that to me reminds me of human architecture,' Dibble said while a guest on Rogan's podcast last April.
'To me, Flint, it's stunning that you see that as a totally natural thing, but I guess we've just got very different eyes,' Hancock countered.
Hancock added that photographs from dives at the site clearly show human-made arches, megaliths, steps, terraces, and what seem to be a carved rock 'face.'
If Yonaguni monument really was built by a mysterious civilization over 10,000 years ago, it would add it to the growing list of puzzling structures that should have been impossible to construct that long ago.
Built around the same time period, Yonaguni monument could potentially join the man-made ancient structure of Göbekli Tepe in Turkey as evidence of lost civilizations.
This archaeological site in Upper Mesopotamia is believed to have been inhabited from around 9500 BC to at least 8000 BCE, during the Pre-Pottery Neolithic Era.
That's over 5,000 years before the Egyptian pyramids were built and roughly 6,000 before Stonehenge.
The sandstone slabs of Yonaguni monument have convinced many researchers into ancient civilizations that an advanced society built a pyramid before the end of the last Ice Age
Göbekli Tepe in Turkey was constructed around the same time as researchers believe Yonaguni monument would have been built in Asia
Meanwhile, another ancient structure in Indonesia could predate Göbekli Tepe and Japan's Atlantis by a staggering amount of time.
Gunung Padang, first re-discovered by Dutch explorers in 1890, is said to be the world's oldest pyramid.
Studies show that the 98-foot-deep 'megalith' submerged within a hill of lava rock dates back more than 16,000 years.
In 2023, scientists said the structure promises to upend the conventional wisdom on just how 'primitive' hunter-gather societies actually were - revealing the true 'engineering capabilities of ancient civilizations.'
According to Dr Masaaki Kimura, the case surrounding Japan's Atlantis is very much still open for debate. Kimura is the scientist who tested the sandstone's age, finding that the rocks date back more than 10,000 years.
At this point in history, the structure would have still been on dry land, before the melting of massive ice sheets caused global sea levels to rise at the end of the last Ice Age.
Studies show that at the peak of the Ice Age, roughly 20,000 years ago, sea levels were approximately 400 feet lower than they are today.
In 1999, however, Dr Robert Schoch of Boston University tried to throw cold water on the theory of an Atlantis in the Pacific, arguing that geology could prove the pyramid and surrounding "city" was a natural rock formation.
Gunung Padang, referred to as the world's oldest pyramid, is believed to date back more than 16,000 years to the peak of the last Ice Age
Schoch noted in his report that Yonaguni monument shares a number of features with other nearby geological formations.
Moreover, it sits in an earthquake-prone region, 62 miles east of Taiwan, suggesting that the fractures and flat faces making up the 'steps' are just normal features of sandstone rocks breaking and splitting.
'When viewing photographs of the Yonaguni Monument, many people immediately have the impression, due to the regularity of the stone faces of the steps and the sharp angles made by the rock, that this is an artificial structure,' Dr Schoch admitted in his paper.
Schoch said that the rocks have also been coated with layers of marine life over the centuries, covering up much of the natural sandstone features and giving Yonaguni monument the appearance of being much more uniform than it really is.
'I think it should be considered a primarily natural structure until more evidence is found to the contrary. However, by no means do I feel that this is an absolutely closed case,' he added.
Five Pyramids Outside Egypt That Will Blow Your Mind
Five Pyramids Outside Egypt That Will Blow Your Mind
Pyramids are far more than Egyptian monuments—they are found all over the world, built by civilizations separated by vast distances and time periods. From the scorching deserts of Sudan to the ancient cities of Mexico, these massive structures show how different cultures, with no apparent connection, were drawn to the same design.
The Great Pyramid of Cholula remains largely unexcavated.
Shutterstock.
When you think of pyramids, Egypt’s towering monuments to the pharaohs likely come to mind first. But what if I told you that pyramids are far from exclusive to Egypt? These awe-inspiring structures are a global phenomenon, built by civilizations spanning thousands of years and continents, each leaving behind massive stone enigmas that defy time. Some hide beneath dense jungles, others rise from vast deserts, and a few stand where you’d least expect them. Their purposes range from tombs to temples to lost cities, and some still guard mysteries waiting to be unraveled.
From the shadowy ruins of Mesoamerica to the windswept sands of Sudan, these five incredible pyramids challenge everything you thought you knew about the ancient world.
1. The Pyramid of the Sun – Mexico
Located in Teotihuacán, this massive pyramid is one of the largest in the world. Built around 200 CE by a civilization whose origins remain mysterious, the Pyramid of the Sun stands 65 meters tall and dominates the landscape of this ancient city. Unlike Egypt’s tombs, Teotihuacán’s pyramids were part of a sprawling urban center that once housed over 100,000 people. Climbing to the top offers breathtaking views of the surrounding ruins, including the nearby Pyramid of the Moon.
Image Credit: Teotihuacan Museum / Wikimedia Commons.
2. The Great Pyramid of Cholula – Mexico
While it may not look like a traditional pyramid at first glance, this structure is actually the largest pyramid by volume on Earth. Hidden beneath what appears to be a natural hill, the Great Pyramid of Cholula was built over centuries by the indigenous peoples of Mesoamerica. It dwarfs even the Great Pyramid of Giza in sheer size. Today, a Spanish church sits atop the ancient structure, a striking blend of pre-Columbian and colonial history.
A model of the Great Pyramid of Cholula. Shutterstock.
3. The Nubian Pyramids – Sudan
The Pyramids of Meroe, located north of Khartoum in Sudan. Shutterstock.
Egypt’s southern neighbor is home to over 200 pyramids—more than Egypt itself. The Nubian pyramids of Meroë, built by the Kingdom of Kush, are smaller and steeper than their Egyptian counterparts but no less impressive. Constructed between 300 BCE and 350 CE, these pyramids served as royal tombs and stand as a testament to the long-lasting influence of ancient Egyptian culture in Africa. Their remote desert location adds to their mystique, making them a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
4. The Pyramids of Guimar – Canary Islands, Spain
Many of the older locals claim that there were many more pyramids in Tenerife that were destroyed. Credit: Pixabay
The Canary Islands hold an unexpected archaeological mystery—stepped pyramids made of lava stone. While some argue that these structures were built relatively recently for agricultural purposes, others believe they could be linked to ancient transatlantic travel. Some researchers suggest a connection between the pyramids of Guimar and those found in the Americas, fueling speculation about pre-Columbian oceanic voyages.
5. The Pyramid of Cestius – Italy
The Pyramid of Cestius. Wikimedia Commons.
Unlike other pyramids on this list, the Pyramid of Cestius is not a temple or tomb for a powerful civilization—it’s the final resting place of a single Roman. Built in the first century BCE for the Roman magistrate Gaius Cestius, this white-marble pyramid stands in the heart of Rome, blending Egyptian influence with Roman architectural style. It’s a rare example of how Egyptian culture fascinated the Romans and shaped their architectural ambitions.
Pyramidomania
Pyramids are far more than Egyptian monuments—they are found all over the world, built by civilizations separated by vast distances and time periods. From the scorching deserts of Sudan to the ancient cities of Mexico, these massive structures show how different cultures, with no apparent connection, were drawn to the same design. Whether used as tombs, temples, or ceremonial sites, pyramids represent a deep human instinct—to build something that lasts, something that reaches toward the sky.
What makes pyramids so fascinating is that they weren’t just a random architectural choice. Their shape provided stability, allowing them to stand for thousands of years, but their significance ran much deeper. Some cultures aligned them with the stars, others used them as places of worship, and in some cases, their true purpose is still a mystery. How did so many civilizations arrive at the same idea? Was it purely practical, or is there something more to the story?
No matter where they are, pyramids remind us that ancient builders had knowledge and ambition far beyond what we often give them credit for. As we explore five incredible pyramids outside Egypt, we step into a world of lost cities, forgotten rituals, and unanswered questions—proof that history is always waiting to surprise us.
Ancient garden uncovered at Jesus' crucifixion site in Jerusalem backs up Bible
Ancient garden uncovered at Jesus' crucifixion site in Jerusalem backs up Bible
Archaeologists have discovered an ancient garden beneath the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, which confirms the Bible's account of Jesus' burial site
Archaeologists from Sapienza University of Rome have unearthed an ancient garden beneath Jerusalem's Church of the Holy Sepulchre, a site mentioned in the Gospel of John as surrounding the crucifixion location of Jesus.
The scripture, John 19:41, states: "Now in the place where he was crucified, there was a garden; and in the garden a new sepulchre, wherein was never man yet laid.There laid they Jesus." The excavation process began during church renovations in 2022, but it was only recently that "evidence of the presence of olive trees and grapevines from around 2,000 years ago' was found.
Lead archaeologist Francesca Romana Stasolla told the Times of Israel, "The Gospel mentions a green area between the Calvary and the tomb, and we identified these cultivated fields." This discovery contributes to the ongoing discussion about Jesus' burial site.
The Church of the Holy Sepulchre, widely accepted by scholars as Jesus' entombment site, attracts approximately four million visitors annually. The church, spanning nearly 5,400 feet in diameter, was constructed atop a Roman temple dedicated to the goddess Venus in 335AD.
It was during this construction that what is believed to be Christ's tomb was discovered. The findings not only shed light on details of Jesus' burial but also provide new insights into the history of ancient Jerusalem.
"The church stands on a quarry," Stasolla explained, "We discovered pottery, lamps, and other everyday objects dating back to that period."
The quarry later transformed into farmland.
"The archaeobotanical findings have been particularly intriguing for us, considering what is mentioned in the Gospel of John, whose information is believed to have been written or collected by someone familiar with Jerusalem at the time."
The quarry later transformed into farmland.
Stasolla added: "The archaeobotanical findings have been particularly intriguing for us, considering what is mentioned in the Gospel of John, whose information is believed to have been written or collected by someone familiar with Jerusalem at the time."
A new development in the mystery of a purported city beneath Egypt's Giza pyramids could, if proven true, fundamentally reshape our understanding of human history.
Italian researchers told DailyMail.com that not only are the shafts and chambers they found deep below the Khafre pyramid 38,000 years old, but also the Giza complex.
They proposed a pre-existing civilization built the complex, but the group was destroyed around 12,000 years ago by a 'divine flood' triggered by an asteroid impact that left only the pyramids as the surviving 'megastructure.'
Mei, who visited the site two weeks ago, highlighted physical evidence, saying: 'Some blocks near the Great Pyramid's entrance show clear signs of water erosion.'
'Only certain stones are affected, suggesting part of the pyramid was submerged in ancient times,' he added.
Mei also noted how thick salt encrustations have been found inside the Great Pyramid, which he interprets as proof of the ocean once flooded the Giza Plateau.
Dr Zahi Hawass, Egypt's former Minister of Antiquities, has consistently argued that the features some interpret as water erosion at the base are due to natural weathering processes and the salt originated from the limestones themselves.
Italian researchers told DailyMail.com that not only are the shafts and chambers deep below the Khafre pyramid 38,000 years old, but also the Giza complex
'The enduring enigma of the Giza pyramids stands as a powerful and perplexing testament to this possibility,' said Mei.
'Despite extensive research, the precise methods employed in their construction remain a subject of intense debate and speculation.'
He added that the 'logistical and technical capabilities required to quarry, transport, and precisely position multi-ton granite blocks, some of considerable dimensions, from distant locations like the granite quarries nearly 500 miles from Giza, warrant deeper and serious scientific inquiry.'
Mei and his team, which includes Corrado Malanga from Italy's University of Pisa and Filippo Biondi with the University of Strathclyde in Scotland, took the world by storm last month when they discovered shafts and chambers more than 2,000 feet below the surface.
They also identified chamber-like structures more than 4,000 feet underground, which they speculated could be a long-lost city.
The work has not yet been published in a journal where outside experts can review it.
The discovery was made by collecting acoustics from deep in the ground, including seismic waves, noise from human activity and photon interactions, to map the newly found shafts and chambers that extend more than 2,000 feet below the surface.
Biondi said these waves were collected by radar, specifically by analyzing Doppler centroid abnormalities—shifts or distortions in frequency patterns used to detect underground structures or changes.
However, Hawass told The National: 'The claim of using radar inside the pyramid is false, and the techniques employed are neither scientifically approved nor validated.'
Mei (center) and his team, which includes Corrado Malanga (right) and Filippo Biondi (left), took the world by storm last month when they discovered shafts and chambers more than 2,000 feet below the surface.
Researchers believe there are other structures reaching more than 4,000 feet below the surface. The scans captured structures extend along the northern side with a tuning fork shape
Now, the latest development from the Italian researchers is that the Giza pyramids also pre-date the oldest known man-made structure of its kind by tens of thousands of years, which is the Göbekli Tepe in Turkey.
The team based their claims on an early 2000s theory known as the Younger Dryas, which is not a widely accepted theory within the scientific community, and is often viewed as a fringe theory.
'Scientists have stated that there aren't clues of an impact on Earth,' Mei said.
'But the Earth is 80 percent ocean. So it's possible that the impact was in in the ocean, and water destroyed the preceding civilization that lived on Earth.'
He added that there are many signs across the world that suggest the existence of a preceding civilization, such as similar monuments in South America and China, 'even at Norfolk Island.'
'But not only the monuments, even the myths are similar everywhere in South America, in Europe, Africa and the South Pacific. There are legends that are similar to the other myths all around the world,' said Mei.
Biondi explained that the pre-existing civilization in Egypt built the city first, then the shafts and then the pyramid on top, creating a 'megastructure.'
The salt encrustations inside the Great Pyramid, according to the team, were left behind from ocean water flowing into the structure.
Colonel Howard Vyse explored the pyramids' King’s Chamber in 1837, finding thick layers of salt on the limestone roof-stones in areas above the chamber.
The said the technology captured enormous chambers (pictured) in the middle of the shafts
The team claimed they discovered eight cylinder-shaped structures below the Khafre, which travel more than 2,100 feet below the pyramid's base. They identified spiral structures on the sides of the shafts
He described these as crystalline deposits, later identified as sodium chloride, forming delicate, flower-like patterns.
W.M. Flinders Petrie also surveyed the Great pyramid in the 1880s, finding thick salt encrustations (up to half an inch) on the limestone walls of the Queen’s Chamber and the Horizontal Passage.
However, he did not report similar findings as Vyse inside the King’s Chamber.
'The underground tunnels of Giza have exactly the same presence of salt on the walls,' Mei said.
'That means that something happened in the ancient past which we must better understand.'
Not only has the team used 'physical evidence' to support their claims, but also ancient Egyptian text that they said 'refers to an ancient civilization.'
Mei explained that the theory of the lost city is based on ancient Egyptian texts, specifically Chapter 149 of the Book of the Dead, which refers to the 14 residences of the city of the dead.
The shafts were said to be connected to larger, cubic structures. The team said there could be a hidden city below all three pyramids
'It describes certain chambers and some inhabitants of the city. That is why we believe it could be Amenti, as described in ancient texts,' he said.
'Of course, we must be certain, but we believe this could be the case because the pyramids are located exactly where the texts say.
'The texts state that the pyramids were built on top of the city, sealing its entrance.'
Biondi also noted that the unknown chambers more than 4,000 feet below the pyramid could be related to the legendary Hall of Records.
The Hall of Records is a long-standing myth in Egyptian lore, believed to be a hidden chamber beneath the Great Pyramid or the Sphinx, containing vast amounts of lost wisdom and knowledge about ancient civilizations.
However, there is no reliable evidence proving its existence.
Professor Lawrence Conyers, a radar expert at the University of Denver, who specializes in archaeology and was not involved in the study, said the claims that the pyramids and structures were built 38,000 years ago are 'outlandish.'
He added that at that time in human history people 'were mostly living in caves' 38,000 years ago.
'People did not start living in what we now call cities until about 9,000 years ago,' he said.
'There were a few large villages before that but those only go back a few thousand years from that time.'
However, Mei said: The notion that a civilization limited to rudimentary tools such as wooden mallets and copper chisels – implements seemingly inadequate for such monumental tasks in hard stone – could have achieved this level of engineering mastery demands a more robust and scientifically sound explanation than the often-cited, and frankly unconvincing, theory of water-soaked wooden wedges.
'The archaeological community really ought to start seriously addressing these fundamental questions, perhaps by first gaining a more practical understanding of the actual techniques required to extract colossal granite blocks from quarries, before proclaiming hypotheses that completely lack technical and scientific grounding.'
Now the first archaeological evidence has been found to support the tale, after excavations revealed proof of an Egyptian presence at the site during Josiah's time.
Assaf Kleiman of Ben Gurion University, co-author of a new study about the discoveries, said the findings were a 'big surprise' for archaeologists.
He added: 'Our recent excavations near the administrative quarter of Megiddo revealed the remains of a large structure dated to the late seventh century BC.
'Within this building, we have found high quantities of crude and straw-tempered pottery vessels imported from Egypt, as well as a few East Greek vessels.
'The exposure of these findings was a big surprise for our team, as these were not unearthed thus far at Megiddo.'
Archaeologists have uncovered evidence that a grisly story from the Bible concerning Jesus's ancestor may be true. New discoveries at Armageddon, known today as Tel Megiddo (pictured), point to the reality of a biblical battle
In the Book of Revelation, Armageddon is where the apocalyptic final clash between good and evil takes place before a new world is born. The name 'Armageddon' comes from the Hebrew word 'Har Megiddo' meaning 'hill of Megiddo'
The Greek vessels offer a tantalising clue, archaeologists believe.
Dr Kleiman's co-author, Israel Finkelstein of the University of Haifa and Tel Aviv University, said: 'The Greek pottery is usually considered as representing Greek mercenaries.
'From sources such as Herodotus and the Assyrian King, Ashurbanipal, we know that Greeks from Anatolia served as mercenaries in the Egyptian army.
'This scenario may be linked to the biblical account about the killing of King Josiah of Judah by Pharaoh Necho at Megiddo in 609 BC.'
Josiah, who's been called the last good king of Judah, is described as a religious reformer in the Bible, ending the worship of any god but Yahweh.
He's also listed as a paternal ancestor of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew.
The Old Testament gives varied accounts of his death.
Dr Finkelstein said: 'The Bible recounts the death of Josiah at Megiddo in two places.
The city of Tel Megiddo (pictured) is where King Josiah, an ancestor of Jesus, was slain by the Egyptian pharaoh, Necho II, according to the Bible.
Archaeologists have now found Greek pottery which might have been used by Greek mercenaries in Necho's army
'He's killed by Necho during an encounter at Megiddo in the Book of Kings, and killed in a battle with the Egyptians in the Book of Chronicles.
'Kings gives close to "real time" evidence while Chronicles represents centuries-later thoughts.
'On this background, the new evidence for an Egyptian garrison, possibly with Greek mercenaries, at Megiddo in the late seventh century BC, may provide the background to the event.
'Moreover, in two places in prophetic works, Ezekiel and Jeremiah, the Bible hints that west Anatolians – Lydians – were involved in the killing of Josiah.'
Some say he and his army blocked the path of Necho II, who was en route to Syria with his troops.
Others say he was summoned as a vassal and executed after failing to pay sufficient tribute to Egypt.
The discovery of pottery fragments in the area suggests that Necho's military forces may have been in the area of Tel Megiddo, or Armageddon, during the time described by the Bible
Most of the city of Megiddo (pictured) has already been excavated, but this new discovery suggests there could be truth to the biblical account of the battle
It's even been suggested that Josiah's death there is the reason for its apocalyptic reputation.
While this new evidence does not tell us much about the details of Josiah's death, it does point to Necho's military presence at Armageddon around that time.
'It would make sense to place the [final] battle out there due to Israel's history of that location,' argues Hope Bolinger at Christianity.com.
Dr Kleiman, Dr Finkelstein, and their colleagues Matthew Adams and Alexander Fantalkin published their study in the Scandinavian Journal of the Old Testament.
No physical description of Jesus is found in the Bible.
He's typically depicted as Caucasian in Western works of art, but has also been painted to look as if he was Latino or Aboriginal.
It's thought this is so people in different parts of the world can more easily relate to the Biblical figure.
The earliest depictions show him as a typical Roman man, with short hair and no beard, wearing a tunic.
It is thought that it wasn't until 400AD that Jesus appears with a beard.
This is perhaps to show he was a wise teacher, because philosophers at the time were typically depicted with facial hair.
The conventional image of a fully bearded Jesus with long hair did not become established until the sixth century in Eastern Christianity, and much later in the West
Medieval art in Europe typically showed him with brown hair and pale skin.
This image was strengthened during the Italian Renaissance, with famous paintings such as The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci showing Christ.
Modern depictions of Jesus in films tend to uphold the long-haired, bearded stereotype, while some abstract works show him as a spirit or light.
Writing: Hieroglyphics, a writing system that uses pictures; hieratic, a quicker type of "cursive"; and demotic, a written short-form script
Ancient Egypt's gods:Osiris (the god of the underworld who was resurrected), Amun-Ra (the god of the sun), Isis (the goddess of healing and magic), Horus (a falcon-shaped god of war and the sky), Maat (the goddess of order) and many others
Ancient Egypt was an influential kingdom in North Africa and the Middle East for thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians were ruled by a leader called a pharaoh and worshipped many different gods.
Today, we can still see traces of this culture in archaeological sites and museums all over the world, as well as in modern pop culture, such as movies and books. Ancient Egypt is best known for the pyramids of Giza, the giant Sphinx, and mummies. However, the early Egyptians also left behind other ancient clues that we can use to learn about their daily lives, including their preserved temples, scrolls, statues, tools, pottery, jewelry, weapons and even their burials.
In fact, it was such a significant civilization that people who study ancient Egyptian history have a special name: Egyptologists. Keep reading to learn all about why ancient Egypt was so influential.
5 fast facts about Ancient Egypt
Ancient Egyptian pyramids were sometimes tombs for pharaohs and other important people.
Because hieroglyphics were complicated to write, ancient Egyptians invented cursive versions called hieratic and demotic.
The Book of the Dead was an ancient Egyptian manual for how to travel through the afterlife.
Pharaohs wore different kinds of headgear to symbolize their power. The most famous of these were striped headcloths called "nemes."
Ancient Egyptians sometimes mummified their pets, including pet cats, dogs and monkeys, and even other animals, like crocodiles, fish and beetles.
Everything you need to know about Ancient Egypt
When did ancient Egypt start and end?
Humans have lived in Egypt for at least 400,000 years, so it's tricky to establish exactly when the ancient Egyptian civilization began. However, because around 3100 B.C. — or 5,100 years ago— Egypt unified under a pharaoh and the writing system of hieroglyphics emerged, Egyptologists commonly use this date as the starting point. Ancient Egyptian history is usually divided into "dynasties" — time periods when a specific family of pharaohs ruled over the kingdom. Around 30 dynasties ruled over ancient Egypt, and the first pharaoh of the first dynasty might have been a ruler named Menes. Cleopatra is considered the last pharaoh. She died in 30 B.C. That means the ancient Egypt civilization lasted around 3,000 years.
Who built the ancient Egyptian pyramids?
People might claim that the Egyptian pyramids were built by aliens, or even the inhabitants of Atlantis. But that's not true — they were built by people thousands of years ago.
A pharaoh named Djoser ordered the construction of a "step pyramid" (a pyramid that looks like it has giant steps on its walls) around 4,600 years ago. The pharaoh Snefru ordered the construction of the first true pyramid around 100 years after that.
Though pharaohs ordered the pyramids to be constructed, the pharaohs didn't build the pyramids themselves. A team of workers moved the giant bricks that make up the pyramids. Egyptologists aren't sure exactly who the workers were, but they may have been farmers or a professional construction crew.
Why did the Egyptians build pyramids?
Most pyramids were royal tombs where the mummies of pharaohs and other important people, like nobles and government officials, were buried when they died.
Mummification was a complex ritual that took 70 days. Priests dried out the body of the person who died with salt and wrapped it in linen cloth before conducting the "Opening of the Mouth" ceremony, in which a priest touched different parts of the mummy with a special instrument. The ancient Egyptians believed this allowed the person to use their senses in the afterlife.
Then, the mummies were placed in a coffin and the coffin was put in a special room in the pyramid called the burial chamber. Ancient Egyptians also buried "grave goods" with the people who had died — valuable objects they could use in the afterlife.
Who are the most famous pharaohs?
The most famous pharaohs are perhaps Ramesses II and Tutankhamen. But others — including Cleopatra, Hatshepsut and Ptolemy I Soter — accomplished great things.
Hatshepsut was a woman who reigned from 1473 to 1458 B.C., or about 3,500 years ago. She ruled on behalf of her young stepson and nephew for several years before officially becoming a co-ruler in 1473, and one of the few known female pharaohs. She ordered important building projects, including a great temple at Deir el-Bahari, and established good relationships with a nation called the land of Punt, which probably existed somewhere in northeastern Africa.
Tutankhamun, also known as King Tut, reigned from 1336 to 1327 B.C., roughly 3300 years ago. He is known more for the famous discovery of his extravagant tomb than for anything he did. He inherited the throne when he was just 9 or 10 and died at just 18 or 19 years old.
Ramesses II, also known as Ramesses the Great, inherited the throne in 1279 B.C. after his father died. He was perhaps the most powerful ancient Egyptian ruler; he vastly expanded the Egyptian empire and built many large monuments. He also reigned for more than 60 years, dying in 1213 B.C.
Ptolemy I Soter was a general of Alexander the Great and started the last dynasty of Egypt — the Ptolemies, which included Cleopatra — before the Roman Empire took over. When Alexander the Great died in what is now Iraq, Ptolemy moved Alexander's body more than 1,000 miles (1,600 kilometers) — about the distance from Washington, D.C., to Miami — to start a new city in Egypt, called Alexandria. He reigned from 367 to 282 B.C., or about 2,300 years ago.
Cleopatra, who reigned from 51 to 30 B.C., was the last pharaoh and perhaps one of the most famous female rulers of all time. She convinced the Roman emperor Julius Caesar to help put her in power, during which she ruled over Egypt, parts of Libya and regions of the Middle East.
What was the religion of ancient Egyptians, and what did it say about the afterlife?
Ancient Egyptians worshipped many different gods and goddesses. The most important ones included Osiris (the god of the underworld who was later resurrected), Amun-Ra (the god of the sun), Isis (the goddess of healing and magic), Horus (a falcon-shaped god of war and the sky) and Maat (the goddess of order).
Ancient Egyptians believed that pharaohs were related to the gods, and religion played a role in all aspects of life. They also believed in the existence of life after death. When someone died, they were turned into mummies and buried with tools to help them navigate and live comfortably in the afterlife.
Part of the journey in the afterlife included weighing their soul on a scale — if the soul was lighter than a feather, it meant the person had committed more good deeds than bad deeds and was allowed to continue.
Ancient Egypt pictures
(Image credit: Ricardo Liberato)
The Pyramids of Giza
Ancient Egyptian pyramids were tombs for pharaohs and other important people.
(Image credit: Metropolitan Museum of Art, CC0)
A statue of Hatshepsut
Hatshepsut was one of ancient Egypt's few female pharaohs.
(Image credit: stellalevi via Getty Images)
The weighing-of-the-soul ceremony
Ancient Egyptians believed that after people died, their souls should be weighed on a scale. If they had committed more good deeds than bad ones, their soul would be lighter than a feather and they would be allowed to continue into the afterlife.
(Image credit: skaman306 via Getty Images)
Tutankhamun's tomb and burial chamber
Tutankhamun died when he was just 18 or 19, but he's famous because of his extravagant tomb, which was discovered in 1922.
(Image credit: dpa picture alliance via Alamy)
A mummy in an archaeology museum
Mummification was an important part of ancient Egyptian burial practices.
(Image credit: Hoberman Collection via Getty Images)
One of Ramesses II's temples at Abu Simbel
Ramesses II ordered many impressive constructions during his reign.
Found in the Zohar Valley near Israel's border with Jordan, this massive pyramid is made of hand-hewn stones, many weighing several hundred pounds.
Israel Antiquities AuthorityThe ancient pyramid structure, dating back 2,200 years, that was discovered in the Judean Desert.
Archaeologists searching the Judean Desert in hopes of finding additional Dead Sea Scrolls recently made an unexpected discovery of an ancient pyramid structure.
Located 72 miles south of Jerusalem, the pyramid stands roughly 20 feet tall and is comprised of large, heavy stones that were hand-hewn roughly 2,200 years ago. Artifacts found at the site, such as coins, weapons, and furniture, date the structure back to the Hellenistic period (323 B.C.E. to 30 B.C.E.), when Greek culture rapidly spread across the Mediterranean world.
Although the ample artifacts found at the scene have helped narrow down the structure’s age, they have left puzzling questions about the purpose of the site. While archaeologists debate the possible purposes of the structure — ranging from guard tower to monumental burial site — the public has been called to aid the excavation crew in their quest to unravel the mysteries of this ancient desert pyramid.
Archaeologists Uncover A Mysterious Pyramid Dating Back 2,200 Years In The Judean Desert
Israel Antiquities AuthorityArchaeologists conduct a full excavation of the ancient pyramid.
In 2017, Israel’s Ministry of Heritage and the Israeli Antiquities Authority (IAA) began a large-scale project to survey and excavate large areas of the Judean Desert. Located in the West Bank and Israel, the desert stretches as far south as the Dead Sea and covers an area of 1,560 square miles.
During the almost decade-long excavation project, archaeologists have surveyed more than 100 miles of desert and 900 caves, uncovering artifacts like papyri, tools, weapons, leather goods, and coins.
A piece of papyrus with Greek writing Emil Aladjem
Israel Antiquities Authority
Recently, a team of archaeologists led by Matan Toledano, Dr. Eitan Klein, and Amir Ganor was examining an area in Nahal Zohar when they discovered something completely unexpected. Originally hoping to find additional Dead Sea Scrolls, the crew stumbled upon a 2,200-year-old pyramid structure from the Hellenistic period, an era when Greek culture rapidly spread across the Mediterranean.
The pyramid, standing nearly 20 feet tall, is comprised of large hand-hewn stones, many of which weigh hundreds of pounds. Surrounding the structure, the research team discovered a wealth of artifacts, including furniture, vessels, and coins.
Israel Antiquities AuthorityAn ancient sewing needle discovered inside the pyramid.
“In the first excavation week, the volunteers found written historical documents, exceptional bronze vessels, and remains of ancient furniture, which thanks to the desert climate were preserved in amazing condition,” the crew explained in their statement. “Every moment new findings are discovered, and we are filled with anticipation for what else the next three weeks might reveal.”
Decoding The Mysteries Of The Judean Desert Pyramid
Israel Antiquities AuthorityArchaeologists search for more artifacts to shed light on the origins and use of the pyramid.
Due to the large number of historical artifacts discovered both in and around the pyramid, experts wondered if the site served as a strategic outpost in ancient times.
At first, archaeologists assumed that the structure was a burial site from the First Temple period, between the 10th and 6th centuries B.C.E. However, artifacts at the site, such as Greek papyri and coins minted under the reign of Antiochus IV Epiphanes, king of the Seleucid Empire, show that the structure was in use during the 3rd and early 2nd centuries B.C.E.
Israel Antiquities AuthoritySome of the ancient Greek papyri discovered at the site.
Artifacts found at the site also point to the pyramid being used as a possible guard tower or tax-collection center. It is possible that merchants traveling through the desert stopped at the structure to pay fees.
“Is this a guard tower, guarding an important commercial route through which the Dead Sea resources of salt and bitumen were transported to the coastal ports? Or at some point was this enormous structure on the mountaintop marking a grave, or serving as a monument in ancient history?” excavation leaders wrote in their statement.
To help solve the mystery of the Judean Desert pyramid, the IAA has called on volunteers from the public to help conduct excavations alongside archaeologists in the next three weeks. With their help, it’s possible that the pyramid’s secrets will be unveiled in full.
“The Judean Desert survey is one of the most important archaeological operations ever undertaken in the State of Israel’s history,” the IAA wrote. “The discoveries are exciting and even emotional, and their significance for archaeological and historical research is enormous. It is an enthralling historical mystery – and to our delight, the public coming to volunteer in the
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Ancient Egyptian Secrets Revealed: How Did They Bore Through Granite?
Ancient Egypt is known for many technological and artistic achievements, constructing pyramids and temples, inventing a system of writing, hieroglyphs, and making advancements in medicine, astronomy, and many other fields. One area for which the Egyptians are particularly famous, of course, is their stone working. A particularly controversial issue is how the ancient Egyptians were able to cut and bore through solid granite - which is considerably more difficult to do than cutting through softer, sedimentary rock such as limestone or sandstone.
View One: The Egyptians Used Common Tools to Bore Holes in Granite
The mainstream archaeological view is that it was done with copper, bronze, and wooden tools used by Egyptian masons today to cut granite. Others, however, have suggested that it was done with more advanced equipment that is yet to be discovered. For the time being, the balance of evidence seems to suggest the mainstream view that primitive metal and wooden tools used by common stone masons were sufficient for cutting through granite.
Reproduction Ancient Egyptian stone mason’s tools used for carving demonstrations. (St. Luke's Finsbury/Stephen Critchley) Were primitive metal and wooden tools used by common stone masons sufficient for cutting through granite?
The first modern Western archaeologists to study ancient Egypt in the 19th century were mostly upper class gentlemen who had no experience with manual labor. As a result, when they encountered structures which they didn’t think could be built with simple hammers and chisels, they assumed that it must have meant that the people at the time had access to more advanced tools than previously believed, advanced machinery with which they were more familiar - such as cranes and other industrial machinery.
Later archaeologists decided to examine the work of stone masons to better understand how the ancient Egyptians built things. They realized that contemporary Egyptian masons of the day had been using primitive tools such as hammers, copper and bronze chisels, and wooden wedges to cut through granite for centuries, dating back to pharaonic Egypt.
Ancient Egyptian sculptors making a statue. (Underground Science) The mainstream view suggests ancient Egyptian stone masons used common tools to crave and bore holes in granite.
The current understanding of how Egyptians bored through granite among mainstream archaeologists is that they used a method where they would drive a wooden wedge into a crack in the rock and soak the wedge with water. As the water expanded, this would cause the crack in the rock to widen. After doing this, they would continue to drive the wedge in even further. Doing this repeatedly would eventually split the rock into blocks. This process happens all the time in nature through frost wedging. Water in the cracks of rocks, including granite and other igneous rocks, will freeze. Freezing of the water causes it to expand, which, over successive freezing and melting, will cause a crack to widen. This can sometimes cause an entire boulder to split in two. The stone mason, modern or ancient, would be using the same principle to cut granite blocks along pre-existing zones of weakness.
An unfinished Egyptian obelisk at Aswan with holes showing how the granite would be split.
View Two: The Egyptians Used Advanced Technology to Bore Holes in Granite
This is still hard for some skeptical writers and observers to believe. They insist that the primitive methods used by early modern and ancient Egyptian stone masons were not enough and that it must have been with more advanced equipment that the ancient Egyptians bored through solid granite. They argue that this is evidence that the ancient Egyptians and other civilizations were much more technologically sophisticated than is currently believed.
We do know that strange devices and materials have been found in archaeological sites in different parts of the world, and have been labeled, boxed and hidden out of view because they do not fit the conventional historical paradigm. Sir William Flinders Petrie was one of the great Egyptologists of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and he found a number of core drills, many of which are now housed in the museum named after him at the University College London in London England. The actual hollow drill bits that apparently made them have not been found, but the cores made of limestone, alabaster, granite and other stones have.
Renegade scholar Chris Dunn, author of several books that dispute the assertions of mainstream Egyptologists, sees the existence of these cores as strong evidence in favor of the advanced technology hypothesis. He spent hours in the Petrie museum and was allowed to personally examine some of the drill cores. Here he discusses the characteristics of one of them:
“The most fascinating feature of the granite core Petrie describes is the spiral groove around the core indicating a feed rate of 0.100 inch per revolution of the drill. It was 500 times greater than modern diamond drills, but the rotation of the drill would not have been as fast as the modern drill's 900 revolutions per minute.”
The often times quoted idea that these drill cores were achieved using a bow and copper tube with sand used as an abrasive must be thrown out, as no modern replication of these cores has been done to the level of efficiency as discussed above, Dunn and other researchers claim.
While it is possible that more advanced technologies could have been developed in ancient Egypt, smoking-gun evidence is lacking. There is no indisputable evidence of physical remains of electrical batteries or wires or anything else that would suggest that the ancient Egyptians used technology that was more advanced than what is expected for that period.
Abusir, Egypt. Remnant of granite pillar with lines etched on it.
There is another case which some proponents of the idea that ancient Egypt was more advanced than contemporary archaeology would suggest - evidence that the ancient Egyptians used light bulbs. The temple of Hathor at the Dendera complex in Egypt contains several stone reliefs that appear to some observers to be a light bulb.
The so-called ‘Dendera light’ in one of the crypts of Hathor temple at the Dendera Temple complex in Egypt. (CC BY 2.5) Could the Egyptians have had electricity and electric tools to bore through granite?
It is far from conclusive, however, that this is a light bulb and most experts agree that it is a depiction of a djed pillar, a type of pillar associated with Ptah the creator god and a lotus flower. It also involves other references to Egyptian mythology such as the sun barge which the god Ra uses to travel across the sky. The fact that no unambiguous ancient Egyptian lightbulbs have ever been discovered also makes the mainstream view more likely for the time being. We know that the Egyptians had stories involving a djed pillar, a lotus flower, and a sun barge. We do not however know, or have concrete indications, that they had electric lighting (or electric drilling for that matter.)
At the moment, without independent corroborative evidence to support the existence of electrical or other similarly advanced technology in ancient Egypt, these sorts of explanations don’t seem to fair well against Occam’s Razor (which admittedly may not always be the best standard, as the best answers are sometimes complex). They require us to assume that the ancient Egyptians had mechanical or electrical technology - for which there is currently no indisputable evidence from archaeology or from historical records written by the ancient Egyptians.
Resourcefulness Allowed the Egyptians to Bore the Holes in Granite
There are still a lot of questions about how exactly the ancient Egyptians were able to build their monuments with the tools that they had, but the fact that we know they had these tools (as opposed to more advanced tools) makes it more likely that they used these primitive tools in some way.
Aswan, Egypt granite quarry with hole where an obelisk block was carved out.
With our modern cranes, power tools, and lasers, we tend to assume that engineering projects such as cutting or drilling through hard crystalline rock require reasonably advanced, modern technology, but humans have always shown themselves to be resourceful. Ancient civilizations were able to make up for their relatively primitive technology by being clever in finding ways to accomplish great architectural achievements with very simple means.
Perhaps we are the limited ones, relying too much on our own technology and not our ingenuity to overcome obstacles. That is a lesson that we can learn from the ancient Egyptians, the ancient Maya, the ancient Incas, and countless other cultures across the world who brought us a collective cultural heritage.
Top Image:Using common tools to work stone in ancient Egypt. (Egyptraveluxe Tours)The so-called ‘Dendera light.’ (Olaf Tausch/CC BY 3.0) Giza, Egypt. Close-up of drill hole in granite with spiral grooves. (Chris Dunn.2007)
CIA Document Claims Ark of the Covenant Has Been Found
The location of a golden chest believed to hold the original version of the Ten Commandments has long been a mystery, with many people doubting that it ever existed at all. But CIA documents claims the Ark of the Covenant was found in the 1980s, by people who were involved in the government’s controversial remote viewing program, which implemented a psychic training regimen that helped participants unlock hidden powers of clairvoyance (the ability to see into the future, or to perceive objects or events that were outside the range of the normal senses).
According to biblical accounts, the Ark of the Covenant was constructed by the Israelites soon after their exodus from Egypt, around the 15th century BC. Moses is said to have placed the Ten Commandments inside the sacred chest, to ensure their safety and preservation. But the location of the Ark, assuming it really exists, was lost in time long ago.
During the 1980s, the CIA (along with other intelligence agencies, like the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA)) conducted many experiments with remote viewing, which those who were closest to the program have long maintained produced real successes. In Project Stargate, remote viewers were asked to locate people or objects wherever they might be in the world, and at times they were even tasked with viewing locations that were off-planet, such as the Moon and Mars. In many instances the readings were carried out blindly, meaning the remote viewers were given a set of map coordinates and then asked to visit these places with their mind and describe what they saw.
One of these tests involved a participant, identified as Remote Viewer No. 032, was secretly tasked with finding the Ark of the Covenant (he wasn’t told what he was looking for, but was only asked to view what he could find at certain coordinates).
What the man described did in fact seem to fit the description of the Ark, and his sessions were considered a success. This remote viewer seemingly confirmed the Ark of the Covenant was concealed somewhere in the Middle East, apparently validating the information that had led to him being given a particular set of coordinates in the first place.
Historians generally believe the Ark was once stored within the Holy of Holies, the most sacred inner chamber of the ancient Temple of Jerusalem. However, it vanished from historical records following the Babylonian destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BC. Some legends suggest the artifact was secretly taken to Ethiopia, where it is said to remain in a local church. Despite ongoing theories, no definitive evidence of the Ark has been found. But the CIA document, which was declassified in 2000 and has finally come to light now, asserts that the sacred relic was in fact located 37 years ago—although obviously it remains unrecovered.
Front page of declassified CIA document detailing remote viewing session on the Ark of the Covenant.
The CIA document recounts the results of a session in which the remote viewer described the target as "a container" housing another container within it. The report further details that the object was composed of wood, gold, and silver and featured the depiction of a six-winged angel.
The viewer identified the object as resembling a coffin and stated that it was situated somewhere in the Middle East. Additionally, they noted the presence of Arabic-speaking individuals in the surrounding area. Notably, the participant was unaware before the session that they were searching for the lost Ark, and the coordinates they were given were such that it was impossible to tell where on the globe the artifact was suspected of being.
Biblical tradition holds that this gold-covered wooden chest was crafted around 1445 BC. The Ten Commandments, which were inscribed on stone tablets, were given to Moses by God and contained foundational laws, such as "thou shalt not kill" and "honor thy mother and father."
Many scholars suggest that the Ark remained within the ancient temple for centuries, during which time only the High Priest of the Israelites was permitted to view it, and only on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in Judaism. Then, at some point, it vanished without a trace, meaning it might have been either been stolen or moved in secret to a more secure location to protect it from thieves.
Despite its unknown fate, the declassified CIA report—linked to the secretive "Project Sun Streak"—suggests that US intelligence agencies were interested in finding the Ark, and were relatively convinced that their remote viewer had done so.
Project Sun Streak Exposed
In the 1970s and 1980s, the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) and other intelligence organizations, including the CIA, employed individuals who reportedly possessed paranormal abilities to acquire intelligence on distant events.
Written summary of the results of the remote viewing session of the Ark of the Covenant.
Project Sun Streak was one such initiative that sought to use remote viewers to identify and gather intelligence on distant locations through a process of psychic visualization (clairvoyance), essentially relying on their ability to project their consciousness outside of their bodies. Remote viewers were tasked with a range of operations, including tracking fugitives and locating hostages held by terrorist organizations.
The existence of this project gained renewed public attention after it was discussed in a recent episode of the Ninjas are Butterflies podcast. Podcast host Josh Hooper initially dismissed Project Sun Streak as a hoax, but was surprised to find official documentation of the program, and the eye-opening Ark of the Covenant session on the CIA’s website.
"I was like... 'what am I looking at?'" Hooper said, in an interview with the Daily Mail.
The CIA document describes a training exercise that took place on December 5, 1988. During the session, a remote viewer projected their consciousness beyond their physical self in an effort to locate the Ark of the Covenant, recording their perceptions along the way. "What he wrote was bone-chilling," Hooper commented.
The remote viewer detailed that the artifact was hidden underground in a dark and damp location. Their observations suggested the Ark played a role in uniting people and held a spiritual and ceremonial significance. They also believed it contained profound historical knowledge not yet understood.
Furthermore, the viewer claimed that the Ark was guarded by powerful entities and could only be accessed by those deemed worthy. The document stated that when the correct time arrived, the locking mechanism would be found to be relatively simple. However, anyone attempting to force it open improperly would be "destroyed by the container’s protectors through the use of a power unknown to us."
Drawing made by remote viewer of the 'white mosque' with a domed top and windowswhere the Ark is being held.
The declassified report includes sketches and handwritten notes from the remote viewing session. Among these drawings are images of what appear to be architectural features, a domed mosque, eight figures resembling mummies, a wheel, and a winged creature referred to as a seraphim. The document also contains lists of cryptic words such as "death," "forbidden," "protected," "sacred," "destroyed," "pain," and "anguish."
Theories Abound, but Still No Ark
Some researchers speculate that the Ark of the Covenant may be hidden somewhere in Ethiopia. Although the remote viewer placed it in the Middle East, Ethiopia is home to a sizable Arabic-speaking population and has numerous mosques.
A longstanding Ethiopian religious legend holds that the Ark was brought to the country by Menelik, believed to be the son of the Queen of Sheba and King Solomon. The Queen of Sheba, who hailed from Ethiopia, ruled over a kingdom that included parts of modern-day Yemen. According to the legend, Menelik journeyed to Jerusalem to study under his father and ultimately took the Ark with him back to Aksum, Ethiopia, where it was placed in the Church of Our Lady Mary of Zion.
Emperor Menelik Bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Aksum.
British scholar Edward Ullendorff, an expert in Semitic languages and Ethiopian studies, claimed to have seen the Ark inside the church during World War II. However, in 2018, historian Tudor Parfitt disputed this assertion, stating that what Ullendorff actually saw was merely a replica.
Parfitt explained, "What he saw was what you find in any Ethiopian church, which is a model of the Ark of the Covenant." He further noted that Ullendorff had remarked that the artifact "didn't differ in any way from many arks he had seen in other churches in Ethiopia," and it was "neither ancient nor the original Ark."
Despite centuries of speculation, the true fate of this sacred relic remains an unsolved mystery, waiting for definitive evidence to emerge. While the CIA document is extremely intriguing, the information it produced did not produce a specific address or landmark where the Ark might be located, so no rescue operation could be mounted. But if the information obtained by the remote viewer is correct and not just a product of his imagination, it means that the Ark does definitely exist and it is being kept safe and sound somewhere in the Middle East, which could narrow the range of a future search to at least some degree.
Top image: ‘The Ark Passes Over the Jordan,’ painting by James Tissot, c. 1896–1902.
Edgar Cayce’s revelation of massive structures beneath the Giza Pyramids
Edgar Cayce’s revelation of massive structures beneath the Giza Pyramids
Some days ago we wrote about recent satellite scans which have revealed massive structures buried up to two kilometers beneath the Giza Plateau, particularly beneath the Pyramid of Khafre. Researchers speculate that these hidden formations may not only contain undiscovered chambers, possibly linked to the legendary Hall of Records but that these subterranean structures could also function similarly to Nikola Tesla's coil, suggesting that they may have once served as colossal power plants, generating and distributing energy on a grand scale.
This revelation has reignited interest in the prophecies of Edgar Cayce, often called the "Sleeping Prophet." Cayce predicted the existence of an underground chamber, known as the Hall of Records, containing lost knowledge from Atlantis, hidden beneath the Sphinx. He also spoke of a powerful energy grid, which he believed once existed in the region.
In the 1930s, Cayce’s psychic readings described Atlantis as a technologically advanced civilization, (Could it be that the Atlanteans were the previous civilization that was on Earth?) that collapsed around 10,500 BC due to corruption and the misuse of power. According to him, survivors of this catastrophe fled to Egypt, where they shared knowledge of engineering, spirituality, and civilization-building. Cayce suggested that these Atlantean refugees played a pivotal role in constructing the Great Pyramid and the Sphinx shortly after their arrival.
Suppose that the Atlanteans indeed contributed to these monumental structures, could they have collaborated not only with the local inhabitants but also with giant humanoids who once roamed the Earth?
Cayce described the Hall of Records as an underground chamber situated between the Sphinx and the Nile River, with its entrance concealed near the Sphinx’s right paw. He claimed the hall contained inscriptions in both Atlantean and Egyptian scripts and was designed in a pyramid-like shape. He further prophesied that its discovery would coincide with a period of global upheaval and transformation.
Despite extensive archaeological investigations, definitive proof of the Hall of Records remains elusive. However, as early as the 1990s, ground-penetrating radar detected anomalies and hollow spaces beneath the Sphinx. With advancements in technology and the recent satellite scans, could Cayce's predictions, regarding a powerful energy grid and the Hall of Records containing lost Atlantean knowledge, prove to be true?
As scientific inquiry continues, we may be on the verge of uncovering secrets buried deep beneath the pyramids, potentially reshaping our understanding of history.
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The Revelation Of The Pyramids - Documentary HD
The Hidden World Beneath Egypt’s Pyramids—Revealed!
Something MASSIVE was JUST Found Beneath the Pyramids of Giza
Scientists on a mission to prove a 'vast city' sits more than 4,000 feet below Egypt's Giza Pyramids have released a new analysis they say proves the findings to be true.
If true, it would turn Egyptian - and human - history on its head, though independent experts have said the discovery is 'completely wrong' and lacked any scientific basis
Researchers said they determined 'a confidence level well above 85 percent' that the 'structures identified beneath the Pyramid of Khafre, as well as those beneath other pyramids on the Giza Plateau,' exist.
The wells and chambers were identified by sending 'high-frequency electromagnetic waves' into the subsurface, and the way signals bounced back allowed researchers to map structures beneath the pyramid.
The team used 'a specialized algorithm' to process the data and create the images that showed what looked like wells with spiral formations leading to enormous chambers.
They cross checked the structures with known architectural forms, 'specifically those accessible to us today, such as the Pozzo di San Patrizio in Italy,' Niccole Ciccole, the project's spokesperson, shared with Dailymail.com.
Professor Lawrence Conyers, a radar expert at the University of Denver who focuses on archaeology and was not involved in the study, said: 'To make correlation confidence levels there needs to be something to correlate to or compare to.
'What could that be here? Without that, these percentages are meaningless scientifically.'
Scientists on a mission to prove a 'vast city' sits more than 4,000 feet below Egypt 's Giza Pyramid have released a new analysis they say proves the findings to be true
However, Professor Conyers suggested that it is conceivable that small structures, such as shafts and chambers, may exist beneath the pyramids, having been there before the pyramids were built, because the site was 'special to ancient people.'
He highlighted how 'the Mayans and other peoples in ancient Mesoamerica often built pyramids on top of the entrances to caves or caverns that had ceremonial significance to them.'
The team claimed they found eight wells and two enormous enclosures more than 2,000 feet below the base of the Khafre pyramid and 'an entire hidden world of many structures' another 2,000 feet below those
'I am skeptical of the deeper claims. If their 'algorithms' can do what they say (I can't comment on those), then perhaps this will hold up,' Professor Conyers said.
'A 'well' or 'tunnel' is what I would expect under a pyramid.'
The work by Corrado Malanga from Italy's University of Pisa, Filippo Biondi with the University of Strathclyde in Scotland and Egyptologist Armando Mei has not yet been published in a scientific journal for the review of independent experts.
The team sent the analysis to DailyMail.com, where they admitted 'further validation is recommended through additional tomographic scans and in-situ verification.'
To determine if anything was hiding below the Pyramid of Khafre, they sent high-frequency waves (similar to how radar works) into the ground beneath the pyramid.
Researchers said they determined 'a confidence level well above 85 percent' that the 'structures identified beneath the Pyramid of Khafre, as well as those beneath other pyramids on the Giza Plateau,' exist. Pictured are six of the eight shafts and an underground room found
The wells and chambers were identified by sending 'high-frequency electromagnetic waves' into the subsurface, and the way signals bounced back allowed researchers to map structures beneath the Khafre pyramid (pictured)
When the waves smashed into something below the surface, they bounced back to the surface, and by looking at how the frequency of these waves changed, scientists could tell what kind of materials were underground.
However, Dr Zahi Hawass, Egypt's former minister of antiquities, told The National: 'The claim of using radar inside the pyramid is false, and the techniques employed are neither scientifically approved nor validated.'
The team said while they 'have the utmost respect for Egyptologists,' their 'findings are based on objective measurements obtained through advanced radar signal processing.'
After gathering the data, researchers used a special algorithm that turned the information into vertical images of the ground beneath the pyramid, capturing the first look at the hidden structures.
One of the images 'exhibits a vertically elongated feature with varying intensity distributions, suggesting the presence of a deep well-like formation,' said Ciccole who has 25 years of experience in forensics.
'The upper portion of the well reveals patterns indicative of potential helical or spiral formations, which could correspond to a staircase or a sloped passageway.'
She added that high-intensity reflections seen in the images suggested 'structured discontinuities that may align with step-like features.'
'Preliminary estimations indicate that the well extends significantly underground, with notable signal variations at multiple depths,' Ciccole said, explaining it could indicate different materials or chambers at various levels.
'The helical feature aligns with descriptions of spiral-descending shafts found in other ancient structures.'
Professor Conyers said agreed in that spiral-descending shafts are found in other ancient structures, such as the Pyramid of Unas and certain Middle Kingdom tombs.
The team also believes the shafts and enclosures are around 38,000 years old. The pyramids were built around 4,500 years ago
After gathering the data, researchers used a special algorithm that turned the information into vertical images of the ground beneath the pyramid, capturing the first look at the hidden structures. Pictured are the eight wells under the pyramid
Researchers believe there are other structures reaching more than 4,000 feet below the surface. The scans captured structures extend along the northern side with a tuning fork shape
'We estimate a correlation confidence of 85 to 90 percent with the hypothesis of a helical staircase within the well,' said Ciccole.
The team also believes the structures were built around 38,00 years ago, which predates the oldest known man-made structure of its kind by tens of thousands of years.
They based the claim on ancient Egyptian text that they interpreted as historical records of a pre-existing civilization that was destroyed during a cataclysmic event, but Professor Conyers said: ''That is a really outlandish idea.'
He added that at that time in human history people 'were mostly living in caves' 38,000 years ago.
Pictured are the researchers involved in the work: Armando Mei (left), Nicole Ciccolo (second left), Filippo Biondi (second right) and Corrado Malanga (right)
'People did not start living in what we now call cities until about 9,000 years ago,' he said. 'There were a few large villages before that but those only go back a few thousand years from that time.'
But researchers explained there was likely a pre-existing civilization that was destroyed during a cataclysmic event.
While ice cores in Greenland and other geological data in the Atlantic Ocean point to such an event, scientists have largely dismissed it due to never finding an asteroid crater.
Researchers believe that ancient Egyptian text seen as myths are actually historical records of life before the cataclysmic event.
They said chapter 149 of the Book of the Dead describes 14 dwellings of the divine which team interprets as describing remnants of an advanced civilization existing before dynastic Egypt.
Ciccolo said the team also used the Turn King List, or Royal Canon, which is an ancient Egyptian document that features the name of kings, including gods and demigods, who supposedly ruled Egypt before the first recorded dynasties.
Researchers believe that the god and demigods were actually living kings long before the first recorded pharaohs.
Ciccolo said these ancient texts 'provide a whole series of references that a pre-existing civilization' lived in the region before 'a cataclysmic event.'
The discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb back in 1922 was one of the most remarkable finds of the 20th century.
Located in Egypt's Valley of the Kings, the young pharaoh was found with more than 5,000 priceless treasures including his iconic golden mask.
Now, more than a century later, Tutankhamun's tomb is still yielding secrets, according to a new study.
Dr Nicholas Brown, an Egyptologist at Yale University, claims the significance of a 'humble' set of objects in the tomb has until now been overlooked.
In his new study, he explains the true significance of clay trays and wooden staffs positioned near Tutankhamun's sarcophagus.
The clay trays and staffs were a key part of the 'Osirian funerary rite' relating to Osiris, the god of the underworld, which Tutankhamun himself pioneered.
Tutankhamun came to the throne as a young boy in 1332 BC and died around a decade later at the age of 18 or 19.
Although he only ruled for 10 years, Tutankhamun is one of the best known Ancient Egyptian pharaohs due to the fabulous treasures discovered when British archaeologist Howard Carter opened his tomb in 1922.
Tutankhamun came to the throne as a young boy in 1333 BC. Although he only ruled for 10 years Tutankhamun is one of the best known Ancient Egyptian pharaohs due to the fabulous treasures discovered when British archaeologist Howard Carter opened his tomb in 1922. Pictured, gold and lapis lazuli funerary mask of Tutankhamun, King of Egypt, c1323 BC
The gold coffin was covered in a black perfumed resin and here, British Egyptologist Howard Carter and a colleague are cleaning it, using a small hammer and a solvent
'While excavating the tomb of Tutankhamun, an enigmatic set of objects was discovered in the burial chamber,' Dr Brown says in his study.
'However, closer examination of the religious and archaeological context of the artefacts enables another interpretation of their function.'
Tutankhamun's tomb was provided with vast quantities of wealth, such as the famous golden funerary mask, golden shoes, clothing, statues, jewelry and more.
But the clay trays and four 3-ft-tall wooden staffs – placed about 5 feet from the head of the pharaoh’s sarcophagus – initially seemed plain in comparison.
Originally, the clay troughs were believed to be merely functional, acting as stands for more captivating emblems found nearby.
But now Dr Brown argues in favour of a new interpretation of the clay trays, which were originally crafted using mud from the River Nile.
The academic believes the trays were used for 'libations' – the ritual pouring of a drink as an offering to a deity, in memory of the dead.
Likely poured into them was water from the Nile, in the belief that the water's purity could help revive the body of the deceased.
The clay trays (pictured) shaped with Nile mud were likely used for 'libations' – the ritual pouring of a drink as an offering to a deity
Originally, these clay troughs were believed to be stands for the emblems found nearby and in close association to them
Sarcophagus containing the gold coffin of the pharaoh Tutankhamun (ruled 1333-1323 BC) which held his mummy. From the Cairo Museum, Egypt
Who was Osiris?
One of the most important gods of ancient Egypt, Osiris was the 'Lord of the Underworld' and judge of the dead.
He is commonly depicted as a pharaoh with a complexion of either green - the color of rebirth - or black, alluding to the fertility of the Nile floodplain.
Pharaohs and other rich ancient Egyptians were associated with Osiris in death if they paid for assimilation rituals, which meant they could rise from the dead with Osiris and inherit eternal life.
Through hope of new life after death, Osiris is associated with cycles observed in nature, but he was worshiped as Lord of the Dead until the suppression of the Egyptian religion during the rise of Christianity in the Roman Empire
Meanwhile, the wooden staffs, placed near the pharaoh’s head, may have played a central role in ritually 'waking' Tutankhamun.
For example, in ancient Egyptian myth, god of the underworld Osiris is commanded to wake by staffs held behind his head.
Dr Brown says the arrangement of the trays and staffs recalls the Awakening of Osiris – a famous ancient Egyptian myth involving the god.
According to the American Research Centre in Egypt, the earliest depiction of the Awakening of Osiris Ritual comes from Egypt's 19th Dynasty (1292 BC to 1189 BC).
But Tutankhamun ruled earlier, during the 19th Dynasty, so Dr Brown suggests that Tutankhamun pioneered this ritual when he died.
'I’m pretty convinced that what we’re seeing within Tutankhamun’s burial chamber is probably the earliest iteration of this ritual that we can see in the archaeological record,' he told New Scientist.
One of the most important gods of ancient Egypt, Osiris was the 'Lord of the Underworld' and judge of the dead.
According to the myth, Osiris was killed by his brother Seth and hacked into pieces that were scattered across Egypt.
In 1922, British archaeologist Howard Carter discovered the mask in Tut's lavish tomb in the Valley of the Kings on the west bank of the Nile River
A room inside the tomb of King Tutankhamun, died at the age of 18 or 19, in the Valley of the Kings in Luxor, Egypt. The tomb has undergone numerous and meticulous restoration works over many years
According to the myth, Osiris, god of the deceased, was killed and hacked into pieces that were scattered across Egypt. Depicted is Osiris on the facade of the mortuary temple of Hatshepsut, Egypt
After finding all of the pieces and making her husband whole again, his wife (and sister) Isis was able to resurrect him for a time.
Dr Brown said Tutankhamun's predecessor, Akhenaten, shifted the country's religious beliefs to the religion focused on Aten the sun-disk.
'This also affected the official afterlife beliefs focused on resurrection through Osiris, which was no longer permitted,' he told MailOnline.
'Tutankhamun and the officials acting on his behalf had the opportunity to adapt, alter, and change royal funerary practice and bring back Osiris into the picture.'
Jacobus van Dijk, an Egyptologist at the University of Groningen who was not involved in the study, agrees that the trays had a ritualistic purpose, although it's unclear what he makes of the staffs.
But he thinks they may have represented part of a different – and even more unusual – ritual known as the 'spell of the four torches'
In the ritual, four torchbearers stand at the corners of the sarcophagus – an act that intended to guide the king through the underworld. The torches are then extinguished in the clay trays, which were filled with 'milk of a white cow'.
Dr Brown's study, published in Journal of Egyptian Archaeology, comes more than 100 years since Tutankhamun's tomb was found by London-born archaeologist Howard Carter and his financial backer Lord Carnarvon.
A colourised version of a black and white photograph of Howard Carter and Lord Carnarvon as they break into the burial chamber in the tomb of Tutankhamun Photographer: Harry Burton
Lord Carnarvon was rewarded with a great discovery - wonderful, priceless and hidden for 3,000 years, including, ultimately, the sarcophagus of King Tutankhamun
On November 4, 1922, in the Valley of Kings, Carter's group found steps leading to a doorway stamped with oval seals and hieroglyphics.
They spent several months cataloguing am antechamber filled with thrones, alabaster vases, musical instruments and dismantled chariots.
Less than three weeks later, Carter made a breach in the corner of a second door deeper underground, which enabled him to peer in by candlelight.
'Can you see anything?' Lord Carnarvon famously asked him, before Carter's astonished reply: 'Yes – wonderful things!'
Finally, in February the following year, the team opened the burial chamber and discovered the sarcophagus – the stunning stone coffin containing the mummified pharaoh.
The tomb is considered one of the most lavish to be discovered in history, filled with precious objects to aid the young Pharaoh on his voyage to the afterlife.
The face of Tutankhamun was an Egyptian pharaoh of the 18th dynasty, and ruled between 1332 BC and 1323 BC. Right, his famous gold funeral mask
Tutankhamun was an Egyptian pharaoh of the 18th dynasty, and ruled between 1332 BC and 1323 BC.
He was the son of Akhenaten and took to the throne at the age of nine or ten.
When he became king, he married his half-sister, Ankhesenpaaten.
He died at around the age of 18 and his cause of death is unknown.
In 1907, Lord Carnarvon George Herbert asked English archaeologist and Egyptologist Howard Carter to supervise excavations in the Valley of the Kings.
On 4 November 1922, Carter's group found steps that led to Tutankhamun's tomb.
He spent several months cataloguing the antechamber before opening the burial chamber and discovering the sarcophagus in February 1923.
When the tomb was discovered in 1922 by archaeologist Howard Carter, under the patronage of Lord Carnarvon, the media frenzy that followed was unprecedented.
Carter and his team took 10 years to clear the tomb of its treasure because of the multitude of objects found within it.
For many, Tut embodies ancient Egypt's glory because his tomb was packed with the glittering wealth of the rich 18th Dynasty from 1569 to 1315 BC.
Egypt's antiquities chief Zahi Hawass (3rd L) supervises the removal of the lid of the sarcophagus of King Tutankhamun in his underground tomb in the famed Valley of the Kings in 2007.
A 'groundbreaking' discovery beneath the Egyptian pyramids has taken the world by storm.
Italian researchers claim to have uncovered 'a vast underground city' which stretches more than 4,000 feet directly underneath the Pyramids of Giza, making them 10 times larger than the pyramids themselves.
The bombshell claim - which many experts claim to have already debunked - comes from a study that used radar pulses to create high-resolution images deep into the ground beneath the structures, the same way sonar radar is used to map the depths of the ocean.
The paper, which has not been peer-reviewed by independent experts, found eight vertical cylinder-shaped structures extending more than 2,100 feet below the pyramid and more unknown structures 4,000 feet deeper.
A press release described the findings as 'groundbreaking' and if true could rewrite the history of ancient Egypt. However, independent experts have raised serious concerns about the study.
Professor Lawrence Conyers, a radar expert at the University of Denver who focuses on archaeology, told DailyMail.com that it is not possible for the technology to penetrate that deeply into the ground, making the idea of an underground city 'a huge exaggeration.'
Professor Conyers said it is conceivable there are small structures, such as shafts and chambers, beneath the pyramids that existed before they were built because the site was 'special to ancient people.'
He highlighted how 'the Mayans and other people in ancient Mesoamerica often built pyramids on top of the entrances of caves or caverns that had ceremonial meaning to them.'
Scientists used advanced technology to see beneath the three pyramids, finding evidence of a 'vast underground city'
The work by Corrado Malanga from Italy's University of Pisa, and Egyptologist Armando Mei and Filippo Biondi with the University of Strathclyde in Scotland has only been released during an in-person briefing in Italy this week and is yet to be published in a scientific journal, where it would need to be analyzed by independent experts.
Despite the skepticism, Professor Conyers added that the only way to prove the discoveries to be true would be 'targeted excavations.'
'My take is that as long as authors are not making things up and that their basic methods are correct, their interpretations should be given a look by all who care about the site,' he explained.
'We can quibble about interpretations, and that is called science. But the basic methods need to be solid.'
He also told DailyMail.com that he could not tell if the technology used actually picked up hidden structure below the pyramid.
'They are using all kinds of fancy proprietary data analysis software,' said Professor Conyers.
The Giza complex consists of three pyramids, Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure, built 4,500 years ago on a rocky plateau on the west bank of the Nile River in northern Egypt.
Each was constructed in the name of a pharaoh. The northernmost and oldest of the group was built for Khufu. Also known as the Great Pyramid, this structure is the largest, at 480ft tall and 750ft wide at its base.
The middle pyramid was built for Khafre, which the team studied, and Menkaure is the southernmost and last built of the group.
Malanga is a UFOlogist and has appeared on YouTube shows about aliens, where he has discussed his more than decade-long career of studying UFO sightings in Italy.
Biondi, on the other hand, specializes radar technology.
And Mei is a researcher in pre-dynastic Egyptology.
Malanga and Biondi’s published a separate peer-reviewed paper in October 2022 in the scientific journal Remote Sensing which found hidden rooms and ramps inside Khafre, along with evidence of a thermal anomaly near the pyramid's base.
The team claimed they discovered eight cylinder-shaped structures below the Khafre, which travel more than 2,100 feet below the pyramid's base. They identified spiral structures on the sides of the shafts
The team also found a hidden chamber in the pyramid that contained five identical structures with sloped roofs and five levels
The new study used similar technology, but got a boost from a satellite orbiting Earth.
The new radar technique works by combining satellite radar data with tiny vibrations from naturally-occurring seismic movements, to construct 3D images of what lies beneath the surface of the earth, without doing any physical digging.
Nicole Ciccolo, the project's spokesperson, said: 'A vast underground city has been discovered beneath the pyramids,'
'[The] groundbreaking study has redefined the boundaries of satellite data analysis and archaeological exploration.'
She shared a short clip of the press briefing held on March 15, saying the full video of the event will be released on March 25.
The cylinder-shaped structures, which Ciccolo referred to as 'shafts,' were arranged in two parallel rows and surrounded by descending spiral pathways.
The shafts were said to be connected to larger, cubic structures. The team said there could be a hidden city below all three pyramids
Ciccolo said the cylinder structures were found underneath each of the three pyramids and appeared 'to serve as access points to this underground system.'
The team explained the system as other chamber-like structures interconnecting under all three of the pyramids.
'The existence of vast chambers beneath the earth's surface, comparable in size to the pyramids themselves, which have a remarkably strong correlation between the legendary Halls of Amenti,' Ciccolo said.
'These new archaeological findings could redefine our understanding of the sacred topography of ancient Egypt, providing spatial coordinates for previously unknown and unexplored subterranean structures,' she added.
The news has gone viral this week, with X flooded with posts about the potential discovery.
Florida congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna shared a post about the structures on her X page.
The team plans to continue their research throughout 2025.
Scientists Say They’ve Found Vast Hidden City Under Egyptian Pyramids
In an announcement that has generated a storm of controversy, a team of Italian and Scottish researchers claims to have made a significant discovery beneath the Pyramids of Giza. Using advanced radar technology, the team, led by Corrado Malanga from Italy's University of Pisa and Filippo Biondi from the University of Strathclyde in Scotland, say they’ve detected what appears to be a massive underground complex spanning over 6,500 feet (1980 meters) directly beneath these ancient structures. This could be some type of underground city, the researchers say, which if true would be a staggering discovery.
Nicole Ciccolo, the Khafre Research Project’s spokesperson, emphasized the stunning impact of this finding. “This groundbreaking study has redefined the boundaries of satellite data analysis and archaeological exploration,” she stated, as quoted in the Jerusalem Post. Ciccolo further explained that this discovery could revolutionize our understanding of ancient Egypt’s sacred geography, providing precise spatial data for previously unidentified subterranean structures.
To achieve this breakthrough, the team utilized Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), an innovative technology that merges satellite radar data with seismic vibrations caused by natural earth movements. This method allows for the creation of 3D images of hidden underground structures, without the need for excavation.
Although the results of this research still require confirmation and extensive peer review (the latter of which may be difficult to obtain), the preliminary findings suggest that the underground system could be 10 times the size of the pyramids above it.
3D model of the interior of the pyramid of Khafre, including features alleged to connect to pathways into underground complex beneath the Giza Plateau.
According to the researchers, eight vertical cylindrical shafts, each extending roughly 2,100 feet underground, were identified. These shafts are said to be encircled by spiral pathways leading to two massive cubic structures measuring approximately 250 feet (80 meters) per side in length. Additionally, five multi-level structures interconnected by passageways were reportedly detected.
“The existence of vast chambers beneath the earth’s surface, comparable in size to the pyramids themselves, has a remarkably strong correlation with the legendary Halls of Amenti,” Ciccolo explained. She noted that the cylindrical structures appeared beneath each of the three pyramids and may function as entry points to the underground system.
The Mainstream Responds As Expected
Despite the excitement surrounding this alleged discovery, the reaction of mainstream researchers has so far followed the usual and tiresomely predictable pattern (of automatically dismissing anything that challenges the establishment narrative, with statements that are interlaced with insinuations that question the integrity of the researchers making the claims).
Topography shown by radar shown at a press conference, later shared by spokespersonn Nicole Ciccolo on YouTube.
EXPEDITION -Nicole Ciccolo- / YouTube
For example, Professor Lawrence Conyers, an expert from the University of Denver, expressed doubts about the findings in an interview with the Daily Mail. “I could not tell if the technology used actually picked up hidden structures below the pyramid,” he said, dismissing the idea of a vast underground city as a “major exaggeration.”
While Conyers acknowledged the possibility of smaller structures, such as shafts or chambers, beneath the pyramids, he pooh-poohed the idea of an extensive subterranean city. He likened the situation to ancient Mesoamerican cultures, where pyramids were sometimes constructed above caves or ceremonial spaces. He cautioned that SAR technology typically struggles to detect deep features, making the claims difficult to verify.
Despite such doubts, the discovery has captivated the internet. Social media platform X has been buzzing with speculation, with users proposing alternative theories. Some suggest that the structures could support the idea that the pyramids were not merely tombs but part of an ancient energy system—a notion long associated with radical figures like Nikola Tesla and Christopher Dunn.
“The megastructure they just found underneath the Giza Pyramids is probably the most important discovery to ever be made in our lifetimes,” one user posted, according to Marca. Others echoed similar sentiments, often ranging quite a bit further into speculative territory than the currently reported evidence would seem to support.
3D reconstruction of eight vertical cylindrical shafts with spiral staircases allegedly detected below the Giza Plateau.
A rendering of the possible water system found under the pyramids
OmniCore Tech / Facebook
While the research team hopes to continue their work, gaining approval for excavations remains a significant hurdle. As expected, Egyptian officials have largely dismissed these claims, and the Supreme Council of Antiquities has not authorized any excavation work at the site.
Dr. Zahi Hawass, the well-known Egyptologist, media figure, and indefatigable self-promoter, has bombastically rejected the idea of hidden structures beneath King Khafre’s tomb.
“The rumors that have spread about the Egyptian pyramids that there are columns under King Khafre’s pyramid have no basis in truth, and there is no scientific evidence to support this claim,” he stated. Hawass further stated that no radar technology has been employed to detect such features, and dismissed the claims as attempts to distort Egyptian history.
Hussein Abdel-Basir, Director of the Antiquities Museum at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, also criticized the findings. He pointed out that geophysical techniques such as Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) and seismic analysis have depth limitations, typically reaching only a few dozen meters. He said that any legitimate discovery should first be published in a reputable scientific journal to be reviewed by independent experts—conveniently ignoring the fact that researchers who propose alternative theories about ancient Egypt are generally ostracized by peer-reviewed journals.
“The details they announced could not have been detected using such methods,” Hawass asserted, reaffirming his stance that these claims are exaggerated and misleading.
Unfortunately, we will likely never know for sure whether the claims of the Italian scientists are truly valid and worthy of consideration, or just so much hot air that should be quickly dismissed. This is because of the predictably poor quality of the “debate” that outside-the-box thinking about the pyramids and ancient Egypt inevitably provokes, dividing researchers into opposing camps (Alternative vs. Mainstream) that blame the other side for all the ills of the world. This destroys any possibility of fresh and innovative research, carried out cooperatively, that will evaluate groundbreaking claims evenly and fairly, combining healthy skepticism with an openness to new ideas.
The good news is that because of the proliferation of online news outlets, mainstream gatekeepers no longer have the ability to suppress controversial or contrary viewpoints in science the way they used to. Researchers challenging the status quo have at least some chance to have their voices heard, giving those who are exposed to their ideas the chance to make up their own minds about what it credible and what isn’t.
Top image: The three pyramids of Giza from left to right: Khufu, Khafre, Menkaure.
Was Göbeklitepe een Oude Tempel van Menselijke Offers?
Was Göbeklitepe een Oude Tempel van Menselijke Offers?
Göbeklitepe, de oudste tempel ter wereld, is ongeveer 12.000 jaar oud. Het werd gebouwd door jagers-verzamelaars in de pre-keramische Neolithische periode, voordat het schrift en het wiel werden uitgevonden. Göbeklitepe heeft de geschiedenis van de menselijke beschaving herschreven.
In juli 2018 werd het gebied opgenomen op de UNESCO Werelderfgoedlijst, waardoor het steeds meer reizigers en geschiedenisenthousiasten uit de hele wereld begon aan te trekken. Het Turkse Ministerie van Toerisme en Cultuur heeft 2019 uitgeroepen tot het Jaar van Göbeklitepe, met meer dan een miljoen verwachte bezoekers.
Göbeklitepe ligt in het zuidoosten van Turkije, nabij de stad Şanlıurfa. Het terrein bestaat uit een reeks enorme stenen cirkels die zijn opgebouwd uit grote T-vormige kalkstenen. Deze stenen zijn versierd met complexe reliëfs van dieren zoals leeuwen, vogels en slangen, en ze zijn geplaatst op een manier die duidt op een diep religieus of spiritueel belang. De site biedt niet alleen een venster naar de religieuze praktijken van de vroege mensheid, maar ook naar hun sociale structuren en levenswijze.
De ontdekking van Göbeklitepe heeft archeologen en historici verrast, omdat het bewijst dat complexe rituelen en sociale samenlevingen al bestonden voordat de mens begon met landbouw. Tot nu toe werd aangenomen dat de ontwikkeling van landbouw leidde tot de opkomst van religieuze praktijken en sociale hiërarchieën. Göbeklitepe daagt deze opvatting uit en suggereert dat religie en gemeenschapsvorming een centrale rol speelden in de levens van de mensen die deze monumenten bouwden.
De site is niet alleen van archeologisch belang, maar heeft ook invloed op de hedendaagse cultuur en het toerisme in Turkije. Bezoekers worden aangetrokken door de mysterieuze geschiedenis en de indrukwekkende architectuur van de tempel. Er zijn plannen om het gebied verder te ontwikkelen als toeristische bestemming, met musea en educatieve centra die de rijke geschiedenis van Göbeklitepe en zijn betekenis voor de mensheid uitleggen.
Met de erkenning van Göbeklitepe als een UNESCO Werelderfgoedlocatie, wordt de noodzaak benadrukt om deze unieke site te beschermen en te conserveren voor toekomstige generaties. Het is een herinnering aan de vroegste dagen van de menselijke beschaving en biedt ons een glimp van de spirituele en sociale leven van onze voorouders. De impact van Göbeklitepe op ons begrip van de menselijke geschiedenis is enorm en het blijft een bron van fascinatie en onderzoek voor zowel wetenschappers als het grote publiek.
Göbeklitepe is daarmee de belangrijkste archeologische vindplaats ter wereld. Het is een kleine heuvel aan de horizon, 15 kilometer ten noordwesten van de stad Urfa in Zuid-Anatolië. Urfa, ook wel "de stad van profeten" genoemd, is verbonden met de bijbelse Abraham (sommigen beweren dat Urfa de stad Ur was die in de Bijbel wordt genoemd) en stond bekend om het herbergen van de Heilige Mandylion.
Urfa, dat ook wel bekend stond als Edessa, ligt aan de rand van het regenachtige gebied van de Taurusbergen, de bron van de rivier die door de stad stroomt en samenkomt met de Eufraat. Urfa was (en is nog steeds) een oase, wat zou kunnen verklaren waarom Göbeklitepe in de buurt is gebouwd.
Een levensgroot standbeeld van kalksteen, gevonden in Urfa, bij de vijver die bekend staat als Balikli Göl, is gedateerd op 10.000 – 9.000 voor Christus, waardoor het de oudste bekende stenen sculptuur is die ooit is gevonden. De ogen zijn gemaakt van obsidiaan.
Balıklı Göl, ook bekend als de Urfa Man, is het oudste standbeeld van natuurlijke grootte dat goed bewaard is gebleven in de menselijke geschiedenis.
(CC BY-SA 4.0)
Sommigen geloven dat Göbeklitepe een belangrijke stap was in de evolutie van religie en de menselijke verbinding met God - dat het het begin van de beschaving markeert en mogelijk de wortel is van de drie grote monotheïstische religies ter wereld. Göbeklitepe is een uitgestrekte verzameling van stenen structuren gebouwd door jagers-verzamelaars uit de Steentijd. De bouw begon ongeveer 12.000 jaar geleden en duurde ongeveer 2.000 jaar.
T-vormige pilaren die mensen symboliseren, gevonden in Göbeklitepe Een typische structuur bestaat uit een cirkel van staande pilaren, gemaakt van stenen tot wel 20 voet (6,1 meter) hoog. Deze pilaren wogen elk tot wel 20 ton (9,1 kwintaal) en waren allemaal uit een massief blok graniet gehouwen. Ze werden eruit getrokken en enkele honderden voeten verplaatst met alleen houten hefbomen.
De pilaren werden vervolgens verticaal opgericht in een basis die in het gesteente was uitgehakt. Sommige onderzoekers schatten dat dit de samenwerking van vele clans zou hebben vereist – misschien wel 500 mensen tegelijk – om zowel de bouw te verzorgen als de bouwers van voedsel te voorzien.
Elke cirkel heeft een diameter van ongeveer 30 voet (9,1 meter). Eén cirkel heeft 12 stenen rondom de omtrek en twee stenen in het midden. Slechts enkele van deze cirkels zijn tot nu toe opgegraven en de site is al enorm. Elke cirkel heeft twee massieve T-vormige pilaren in het midden van de cirkel.
De T-vormige pilaren van Göbeklitepe.
(muratart / Adobe Stock)
Opgestapelde stenen dienen als een muur om deze cirkel tot een omheining te maken. Kleinere pilaren omringen het gebied. Sommigen denken dat deze T-vormige pilaren ooit een rieten dak of ander materiaal ondersteunden; anderen geloven dat ze mensen symboliseren. Dit is wat ik ook geloof dat de bouwers van Göbeklitepe wilden doen: de aandacht van de goden, boven de sterren, trekken om met hen te communiceren. De meeste beeldhouwwerken op de pilaren zijn van dieren. Maar er zijn ook pilaren die antropomorf zijn of de vorm van een mens hebben. Dit was een project dat vergelijkbaar was met de bouw van de piramides in Egypte. Maar het bouwen met stenen die tonnen wegen begon hier in Göbeklitepe, lang voordat Egypte of Engeland met Stonehenge begon.
Wat was de reden achter… Waarom werd dit enorme project gebouwd?
Eén ding is duidelijk voor de opgravers — deze plek was geen woonplaats. Er zijn geen tekenen van voedselopslag of landbouw en het heeft geen duidelijke functie. De missie moet puur religieus zijn geweest. Het is uitgeroepen tot de oudste bekende structuur die als tempel is gebouwd.
Mijn kijk op het mysterieuze Göbeklitepe, dat vele geheimen herbergt, is als volgt:
Een van de belangrijkste veranderingen in de geschiedenis van de mensheid vond ongeveer 12.000 jaar geleden plaats in het gebied tussen de rivieren de Eufraat en de Tigris. De mensheid begon net over te stappen van een levensstijl van jagers en verzamelaars naar een sedentair leven - van jagen en verzamelen naar landbouw en productie.
Deze transitieperiode duurde misschien enkele eeuwen of zelfs een millennium. Aanvankelijk waren ze getuige van een zaadje uit een vrucht dat uit de aarde groeide en bloeide als een proces van wedergeboorte! Dit zou de reden kunnen zijn geweest dat ze begonnen hun doden te begraven en hoopten op een wedergeboorte op het juiste moment.
Verschillende soorten goden met bovennatuurlijke krachten onderbraken hun dagelijks leven met klimaatveranderingen en natuurrampen. En er was één ding waarvan ze zeker waren: dat ze de goden moesten behagen, zich moeten gedragen zoals de goden wilden dat ze zich gedroegen.
Nieuwe Beelden en Verse Inzichten van Karahan Tepe en Göbekli Tepe Het Enigmatische H-Symbool dat Göbekli Tepe, de Priesterlijke Macht en de Dierenriem verbindt Om het leven van hun dierbaren te redden - om hun overleden familieleden weer geboren te zien worden - en om te beginnen met landbouw, geloofden de mannen dat ze met alle goden een akkoord moesten sluiten.
Ze dachten dat ze de goedkeuring van bovennatuurlijke krachten nodig hadden om over te schakelen naar een sedentair leven en te beginnen met landbouw. Wanneer zou het regenen, wanneer zou het stormen of hagelen, of alles op zijn kop zetten met aardbevingen? Zou de zonnegod, de maangod of andere goden, die soms leken te straffen en mensen bang maakten, hen toestaan te boeren, te cultiveren en te oogsten?
De Goedkeuring van de Goden voor de Landbouw Zoeken Mannen probeerden de goden te sussen om hun woede te vermijden en hen tevreden te houden. Toen de goden hen bestraften met natuurrampen, waarbij vele levens verloren gingen wanneer ze boos werden, zochten de mannen een manier om de goden te verzoenen, door sommigen van hun eigen soort te doden om de woede van de goden af te wenden, in de veronderstelling dat de goden tevreden waren wanneer deze mensen of dieren werden geofferd.
(Van links) De geschenkdraagt houdt in zijn handen een menselijke kop; (Van rechts) Pilaar 43 met laag reliëf van een ithyphalisch hoofdloos individu.
(Credits: Dieter Johannes, Klaus Schmidt en Nico Becker/Göbekli Tepe Archive/Duitse Archeologische Instituut, DAI)
Moesten ze de goedkeuring van de goden verkrijgen voor landbouw toen ze overstapten naar permanente nederzettingen? Zouden ze in staat zijn om de goden tevreden te stellen en de gewassen te oogsten als ze dieren en mensen – de jongsten en mooiste – zouden offeren in rituelen en ceremonies?
Misschien waren de tempels van Göbeklitepe tempels voor sacrale rituelen die voortkwamen uit deze ideeën! Wie weet, misschien was het echt zo…
Misschien vertellen de dieren- en mensenbotten, die onze aandacht trekken tussen de vondsten, en de bier- of wijnkruiken – mogelijk gebruikt in rituelen – ons hier iets over, wie weet? Wat de waarheid ook moge zijn, de tempels van Göbeklitepe, waarvan de geheimen nog niet volledig zijn ontdekt, herschrijven de geschiedenis van de mensheid.
Oude site van Göbeklitepe in Turkije, de oudste tempel ter wereld.
(Teomancimit / CC BY-SA 3.0)
De Goden omkopen! Mensenoffers werden door veel oude culturen beoefend. Mensen werden op rituele wijze gedood op een manier die bedoeld was om een god of geest te behagen of te verzoenen. Droogtes, aardbevingen, vulkaanuitbarstingen, enzovoort werden gezien als tekenen van woede of onvrede van de goden, en offers zouden de goddelijke toorn moeten verlichten.
De mensen van die prehistorische tijd, die een osse levensstijl met landbouw wilden beginnen, geloofden dat ze de toestemming van de goden moesten vragen door enkele van hun geliefden te offeren. Offer betekende dat de mens een geschenk aan de goden deed en een geschenk in ruil daarvoor verwachtte. Ze hakte menselijke hoofden af, ontdeden de schedels van vlees en maakten ze schoon, en hingen ze onder een hoek zodat ze naar de goden keken.
Ze wilden dat de goden eerst de enorme, mensachtige pilaren zagen, dan de geofferde mensen, vooral de jonge en mooie – en zo verzoend werden, waardoor toestemming werd verleend voor vestiging en landbouw onder goede natuurlijke omstandigheden, geen storm of hagel maar overvloedige regen en zonneschijn... Het verduidelijken van wat de goden wilden was het geheim.
Menselijk offer is niet alleen een rituele handeling die is ontworpen om de goden te sussen, de toekomst te voorspellen of geluk en welvaart te brengen aan degenen die het offer brengen. Menselijk offer vereist de uitwisseling van een leven - vrijwillig of niet - in ruil voor bovennatuurlijke hulp of voor een groter doel. En bij deze tempels werden ook andere, levenloze offers gedaan.
Een opmerkelijke vondst was een kalkstenen beeldje, aangeduid als de 'geschenkdrager', een knielende figuur die een mensenhoofd in zijn handen draagt, waarvan de ogen en neus zichtbaar zijn.
Bouw D pilaar. Afbeelding van de 'Gift Bearer' in Göbeklitepe.
(Afbeelding: Duits Archeologisch Instituut – DAI / Auteur geleverd)
Veel Botten, Maar Geen Begravingen in Göbeklitepe Er zijn een aanzienlijk aantal gefragmenteerde menselijke botten gevonden, maar het bewijs van menselijke begravingen ontbreekt in Göbeklitepe. Een verklaring hiervoor is dat deze specifieke variant van onthoofding en schedelmodificatie verbonden was met activiteiten die specifiek zijn voor de Göbeklitepe-locatie.
Het is de oudste site waar bewerkte schedels zijn gevonden, en recent zijn er fragmenten van drie gemodificeerde menselijke schedels ontdekt in Göbeklitepe. Schedelbewerking is het resultaat van meerdere snijacties, niet gerelateerd aan ontkleed of het afscheren van de schedel, aangezien ontkleed gepaard moet gaan met andere soorten snijmerken op de schedels, en afscheren kan worden uitgesloten op basis van het ontbreken van typische markers.
Alle schedels die op de site zijn gevonden, vertonen opzettelijke diepe insnijdingen langs hun sagittale assen. In een van deze gevallen is ook een geboorde perforatie aangetoond. Deze bevindingen zijn opmerkelijk omdat ze het allereerste osteologische bewijs van een ritueel offer leveren.
Schedels met markeringen die zijn gevonden op Göbeklitepe suggereren rituelen.
(Science Magazine / YouTube)
Omdat er geen tekenen van genezing konden worden vastgesteld, zijn de aanpassingen waarschijnlijk kort na de dood uitgevoerd, wat een sterk bewijs is voor ons om te geloven dat het om een offer ging. Schedels werden niet eerder dan in de perimortemfase bewerkt; deze observatie wordt bevestigd door microscopische analyses: snijmarkeringen worden gekenmerkt door scherpe randen, wat betekent dat het bot werd doorgesneden terwijl het nog elastisch was, dat wil zeggen, in een vroeg stadium van ontbinding.
Een opmerkelijk kenmerk van een van de gevonden schedels is de geboord perforatie in het linker pariëtale bot, waarvan de positie zorgvuldig is gekozen zodat de schedel verticaal en naar voren gericht kan hangen, kijkend naar de goden wanneer hij wordt opgehangen. De geboord perforatie aan de bovenkant van de schedel wordt gebruikt om de schedel met een koord op te hangen. Beitels werden gebruikt voor stabilisatiedoeleinden, om te voorkomen dat het koord wegglijdt.
Een van de drie gevonden schedels behoorde tot een individu van 25 tot 40 jaar oud, dat waarschijnlijk meer vrouwelijk dan mannelijk was. Deze stukjes bewijs hebben geleid tot de interpretatie van Göbeklitepe als een centrum voor offers van vroege jager-verzamelaarsgroepen die leefden rond Zuidoost-Anatolië.
De mensen die zich verzamelden in deze tempels woonden niet permanent in dat gebied en wilden dat de tempels veilig bleven tot hun volgende bezoek. Er is ontdekt dat deze tempels door de bouwers onder de grond verborgen werden om ze te beschermen tot de volgende offerceremonie – misschien tot het volgende oogstseizoen!
Een model van het Göbeklitepe-opgravingsgebied wordt tentoongesteld in de Neolithische zaal van het Şanlıurfa Museum.
(CC BY-SA 4.0)
Volgens een recente studie reisden de voorouders van de mensen die Stonehenge bouwden naar het westen over de Middellandse Zee voordat ze Groot-Brittannië bereikten. Onderzoekers in Londen vergeleken DNA dat was geëxtraheerd uit neolithische menselijke resten die in Groot-Brittannië zijn gevonden met dat van mensen die in dezelfde periode in Europa leefden.
De neolithische bewoners lijken van Anatolië (het huidige Turkije) naar Iberië te zijn gereisd voordat ze hun weg naar het noorden maakten. Misschien is de recent ontdekte Dolmen de Guadalperal (ook wel het Spaanse Stonehenge genoemd) bij het Valdecanas-reservoir in Spanje - waarvan ook wordt aangenomen dat het een plaats is waar religieuze rituelen werden uitgevoerd - een ander voorbeeld dat was gecreëerd door de mensen die van Göbeklitepe naar Stonehenge reisden.
Ze bereikten Groot-Brittannië rond 4000 v.Chr. Stukken menselijke botten in de bodem van niches achter de stenen pilaren op de site, zoals die ontdekt in Göbeklitepe, en de enorme hoeveelheid dierenbotten die op de site zijn gevonden, suggereren dat hier regelmatig rituele offers plaatsvonden.
Er is misschien een parallel met de veel latere site bij Durrington Walls, dicht bij Stonehenge, in Wiltshire, Engeland. Gedateerd rond 2600 v.Chr. was Durrington Walls een enorme rituele houten cirkel waar enorme hoeveelheden dierenbotten, voornamelijk van varkens en runderen, zijn ontdekt.
Dus misschien waren al deze tempels de plekken van offers om de goden te behagen en hun toestemming te vragen… en dit was hoe de mensheid probeerde over te stappen van 'jagen en verzamelen' naar 'landbouw en productie'.
Bovenste afbeelding: Göbeklitepe in Turkije, de oudste tempel ter wereld.
New Evidence! The Shocking Truth About the Pyramids, Atlantis, Lemuria, Stonehenge! (Video)
New Evidence! The Shocking Truth About the Pyramids, Atlantis, Lemuria, Stonehenge! (Video)
In this 16 March 2025 video, host Anrit Sandhu talks with Freddy Silva who unveils the hidden history of ancient civilizations, inclusing revealing the lost knowledge embedded in sacred sites worldwide.
Were temples and pyramids more than just monuments? Did the ancients possess a deep understanding of energy fields, frequencies and the laws of nature which modern science is only beginning to grasp? From levitating stones to electromagnetic hotspots, Freddy explores how ancient cultures harnessed unseen forces to manipulate reality.
He shares personal experiences with sacred sites where the veil between worlds is thinnest, encounters with knowledge keepers and evidence of a parallel civilization that predated recorded history. He challenges mainstream archaeology, exposing why history keeps getting rewritten and why powerful institutions suppress paradigm-shifting discoveries.
This conversation is a journey through forbidden science, spiritual evolution and the realization the ancients may have left behind a blueprint for a more enlightened future.
00:00 The Power of Sacred Sites 05:12 Earth’s Energetic Centers 08:08 Scientific Evidence of Sacred Sites 10:59 Aboriginal Perspectives on Sacred Sites 14:15 Mainstream Acceptance of Spiritual Knowledge 15:16 Media Representation of Ancient Sites 19:20 The Nature of Sacred Sites 26:56 Understanding Earth’s Energies and Currents 42:43 Cycles of Human Experience and Spiritual Renaissance 50:04 Connecting Ancient Civilizations and Modern Understanding 57:51 Unearthing Ancient Maps and Knowledge 01:00:03 The Value of Indigenous Perspectives 01:02:13 Exploring Humanity’s Origins 01:05:14 Mindfulness and Connection to Nature 01:13:49 Understanding Ley Lines and Telluric Currents 01:19:59 Clearing Energies and Sacred Spaces 01:26:13 Transformation Through Service 01:32:14 Technology: Evolution or De-Evolution? 01:36:43 The Role of Sacred Spaces in Personal Growth 01:39:34 Humanity’s Challenges and the Seeds of Change 01:44:14 Connecting with Sacred Sites and Nature 01:48:25 The Mysteries of Ancient Civilizations and Their Lessons
Two-kilometer-deep complex beneath the Giza pyramids discovered
Courtesy: Reuters
Two-kilometer-deep complex beneath the Giza
Researchers utilizing publicly available Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) data from Capella Space and Umbra have uncovered significant hidden structures within and beneath the CFR Pyramid on the Giza Plateau. The study reveals five distinct "Zed" structures located above what was previously believed to be the pharaoh’s burial chamber, resembling similar formations found in the Khufu Pyramid. These structures are connected by geometric pathways, with additional secondary formations identified through satellite imaging.
Source and credit images: The Reese report / The Kafre Research Project.
Most notably, eight vertically aligned cylindrical structures, arranged in two parallel rows from north to south, extend 648 meters underground. These formations merge into two massive cubic structures, each approximately 80 meters per side. Tomographical analysis indicates that the cylindrical structures function as hollow wells surrounded by descending spiral pathways.
Further research suggests that these subterranean formations are not limited to the CFR Pyramid but extend beneath the Khufu and Menkaure pyramids as well, reaching depths of approximately two kilometers. The study marks a groundbreaking advancement in the understanding of the Giza Plateau’s underground complexity,
The discoveries surrounding the CFR Pyramid represent just the tip of a vast and complex structure beneath the Giza Plateau.If confirmed, this discovery could challenge mainstream Egyptology’s belief that the pyramids were simply royal tombs.
Khafre SAR scan Mar 2025 - Khafre pyramid at Giza shows massive underground structure
This has reminded me of Graham Hancock, who has had thing tor two to say about this.
Stonehenge isn't the oldest monument of its kind in England, study reveals News By Laura Geggel published 1 hour ago Flagstones, an ancient monument and burial ground in England, is older than Stonehenge, a new radiocarbon-dating study finds.
Stonehenge isn't the oldest monument of its kind in England, study reveals
Flagstones, an ancient monument and burial ground in England, is older than Stonehenge, a new radiocarbon-dating study finds.
An illustration of the Flagstones enclosure shortly after its construction in the middle Neolithic period.
(Image credit: Reconstruction by Jennie Anderson)
A Stone Age circular monument in England is even older thanStonehenge, raising the possibility that Stonehenge's creators used it as inspiration, a new study finds.
When researchers radiocarbon-dated artifacts from the large monument, known as Flagstones, they found that it dates to about 3200 B.C. — meaning it's about 200 years older than Stonehenge. Previously, archaeologists thought Flagstones was the same age as the earliest stages of Stonehenge, which was built and reconfigured over the centuries. The researchers published their findings March 6 in the journal Antiquity.
The discovery "makes Flagstones the earliest large circular enclosure known in Britain," said study first author Susan Greaney, a lecturer in archaeology at the University of Exeter in the U.K. "It might be that Flagstones was copied at Stonehenge, or it might be that we need to go back to our dates of Stonehenge and think again," she told Live Science in an email.
Flagstones, an ancient monument and burial site, was found in the 1980s during construction of the Dorchester bypass in Dorset, a county in southwest England. Excavations unearthed a 330-foot-wide (100 meters) circular ditch that was made with intersecting pits. The pits have at least four sets of human remains: a cremated adult and three children whose bodies were buried there. The partially cremated remains of three other adults are located elsewhere at the site, according to a statement from the University of Exeter.
Now, half of the monument is under the bypass, while the other half is under a historical home managed by the National Trust, a conservation organization. The site's artifacts are housed at the Dorset Museum.
Stonehenge: The Mysterious Origins Of England's Ancient Megalith | Lost Treasures | Timeline
Flagstones is about 37 miles (60 kilometers) southwest of Stonehenge. Its similarity to the early stages of Stonehenge, which also includes cremated burials and a similarly sized enclosure made of intersecting pits, led archaeologists to think the two were built at the same time, around 2900 B.C. But as part of her doctoral research, Greaney put together a more detailed timeline of a cluster of Neolithic monuments in the Dorchester area whose artifacts are kept at the Dorset Museum.
"With new techniques for obtaining precise radiocarbon dates, and advanced statistical methods, we can now obtain really precise estimates for when events like monument construction took place," Greaney said.
To more accurately date Flagstones, Greaney and her colleagues radiocarbon-dated human remains, red deer antlers and charcoal found at the site. By combining these dates with those of archaeological finds from the site, Greaney and her colleagues estimated that the pits were dug around 3650 B.C. but that the circular enclosure wasn't formed until 3200 B.C. and the burials were placed there soon after. A young adult male who was buried under a large sarsen stone at the center of the Flagstones' enclosure was placed there much later — around 1,000 years after the monument was first used.
(Image credit: Courtesy of the Dorset Museum)The ancient antler of a red deer that was found at Flagstones.
(Image credit: Courtesy of the Dorset Museum)A bird's-eye view of excavations at the Flagstones monument in Dorset, England.
A new type of monument
At 5,200 years old, Flagstones is the oldest known large, circular enclosure of its kind in Britain. After its construction, circular monuments were built in numerous other locations.
"It is part of a shift from predominantly rectangular or linear monuments (cursus monuments, long barrows) or irregular enclosures (causewayed enclosures) towards circular forms," Greaney said.
The new study suggests that circular monuments like Flagstones "may have been influenced by practices in Ireland, where people were burying their cremated dead in circular passage tombs at this time," she said.
Although the new dates suggest that Flagstones is older than Stonehenge, Greaney thinks that scientists should reassess and redate Stonehenge. After all, some of Stonehenge's artifacts are thought to be older than the site itself.
"There are some 'curated' animal bones from near the entrances to the enclosure at Stonehenge, which do date from around 3200 BC," Greaney said. "It's been assumed that these deer bones and cattle skulls had been kept for some time before being deposited in the ditch.
"With the new dates from Flagstones, it's now possible to look at these deposits, which were in slightly deeper parts of the ditch, and ask whether there was an earlier enclosure made up of intercutting pits which only later people joined together to form the more continuous ditch, which happened in c. [circa] 2900 BC," Greaney added.
Scientists 'shocked' at new Stonehenge discovery | BBC News
Scientific Report: Unraveling THE Major Archaeological Mysteries
Scientific Report: Unraveling THE Major Archaeological Mysteries
Abstract
This report delves into the significant archaeological mysteries that have intrigued researchers and historians for centuries. From the enigmatic structures of Stonehenge to the cryptic Voynich Manuscript, these mysteries not only challenge our understanding of ancient civilizations but also inspire ongoing research in archaeology, anthropology, and linguistics. This document aims to provide a comprehensive overview of each mystery, discussing its historical context, the theories surrounding it, and the implications for our understanding of human history.
Introduction
Archaeology serves as a gateway to understanding human history, providing insights into cultural practices, societal structures, and technological advancements. However, some archaeological sites and artifacts remain shrouded in mystery, challenging scholars to reconsider established narratives. This report examines 13 of these mysteries, each representing a unique puzzle in the broader narrative of human civilization.
THE Major Archaeological Mysteries
1.Stonehenge
Historical Context: Stonehenge, located in Wiltshire, England, is a prehistoric monument that dates back to around 3000 BC. It consists of a circular arrangement of massive stones, known as sarsens, and smaller bluestones. The construction of Stonehenge is believed to have occurred in several phases, indicating a long-term effort by the societies of the time. The exact methods used to transport and erect these enormous stones remain subjects of fascination and debate among historians and archaeologists alike. Stonehenge has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, underscoring its importance as a cultural and historical landmark.
Mysteries and Theories: The purpose of Stonehenge remains unclear. Theories suggest it served as an astronomical observatory, a religious site, or a burial ground. Some researchers believe that the alignment of the stones with the solstices indicates a sophisticated understanding of celestial events. Recent archaeological findings, including the discovery of nearby settlements and burial mounds, have added complexity to its interpretation, suggesting that Stonehenge may have been a focal point for communal gatherings or rituals. Additionally, the monument's construction may have involved a network of ancient communities, highlighting the social and cultural dynamics of prehistoric Britain.
2. The Voynich Manuscript
Historical Context: The Voynich Manuscript is a 15th-century book written in an unknown script and language. It features elaborate illustrations of plants, astronomical diagrams, and naked figures, all of which contribute to its enigmatic quality. The manuscript is named after Wilfrid Voynich, a rare book dealer who acquired it in 1912. The manuscript's origins remain shrouded in mystery, as it is thought to have been created in a European context, yet its script and language are unlike any known writing system.
Mysteries and Theories: Despite extensive analysis, the manuscript's content remains undeciphered. Some scholars argue it could be an elaborate hoax, designed to perplex and intrigue, while others believe it contains genuine knowledge of medieval herbalism or alchemy, perhaps intended for a select audience. Cryptographers and linguists have attempted to crack its code for decades, yet no consensus has been reached. Its origins and purpose continue to elude researchers, leading to a multitude of theories that range from it being a lost language to a cipher for a secret society. The manuscript's allure lies not only in its content but also in the broader implications of what it represents about human knowledge and the quest for understanding in a world filled with secrets.
3. The Mummies of Xinjiang
Historical Context: The mummies discovered in the Tarim Basin of Xinjiang, China, date back to 1800 BC and exhibit Caucasian features, raising questions about the region's ancient inhabitants. These remarkably well-preserved remains have garnered significant attention due to their striking differences from typical Han Chinese populations. The mummies are part of a broader archaeological context that includes various artifacts and burial sites, providing insights into the lifestyles and cultures that existed in this area during ancient times.
Mysteries and Theories: The presence of these mummies challenges the narrative of ancient Chinese civilization. Genetic studies suggest a complex migration pattern, indicating significant cultural exchanges between different groups. This evidence points to the possibility of a multicultural society in the region, where diverse groups interacted and influenced one another. The mummies' burial practices, which include elaborate textiles and grave goods, also reflect a blend of cultures, suggesting that the Tarim Basin served as a crossroads for trade and cultural exchange along the Silk Road. The ongoing research into these mummies continues to reshape our understanding of ancient human migrations and the interconnectedness of early civilizations.
The "Xiaohe Mummy", exhibited in Xinjiang Museum, is one of the oldest Tarim mummies, dating more than 3800 years ago. Another mummy from the same place is the "Princess of Xiaohe".
4. The Fall of the Indus Civilization
Historical Context: The Indus Valley Civilization, one of the earliest urban cultures in human history, thrived around 2500 BC in what is now Pakistan and northwest India. Known for its advanced urban planning, sophisticated drainage systems, and extensive trade networks, the civilization reached its peak during the Mature Harappan phase. Cities like Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro showcased remarkable architectural achievements and a complex societal structure. However, around 1900 BC, this flourishing civilization experienced a sudden decline, leading to the abandonment of major urban centers.
Mysteries and Theories: The reasons behind the collapse of the Indus Civilization remain a subject of intense scholarly debate. Climate change is a leading theory, positing that prolonged droughts may have disrupted agriculture and water supply, leading to societal stress. River shifts, particularly of the Ghaggar-Hakra River, may have further contributed to the decline by altering trade routes and access to resources. Additionally, some scholars suggest invasions or internal strife as possible causes. Recent archaeological findings, including evidence of changing environmental conditions, support the idea that a combination of factors led to this complex downfall, yet the complete picture remains elusive.
5. The Moai Statues of Easter Island
Historical Context: The Moai statues, towering monolithic figures on Easter Island, were crafted by the Rapa Nui people between 1400 and 1650 AD. These iconic statues, which represent ancestral figures, are renowned for their oversized heads and intricate carvings. They play a crucial role in the island's cultural heritage, reflecting the social and religious beliefs of the Rapa Nui. The construction and placement of the Moai are indicative of a highly organized society with considerable resources at its disposal.
Mysteries and Theories: The transportation methods of these massive statues continue to intrigue researchers. Various theories have emerged, including the use of sledges, rollers, and a unique technique involving walking the statues upright using ropes. The societal collapse that followed the Moai's construction raises critical questions about resource management, particularly deforestation and overexploitation of the island’s limited resources. This environmental impact may have led to societal strife, ultimately contributing to the decline of the Rapa Nui civilization. The interplay between cultural achievement and environmental sustainability remains a poignant topic of discussion among historians and archaeologists.
6. The Writing System of Easter Island
Historical Context: Rongo Rongo, the unique script of Easter Island, is one of the few known undeciphered writing systems in the world. Created by the Rapa Nui people, it features glyphs that are thought to represent both sounds and ideas. The script is believed to have originated in the late 19th century, coinciding with significant cultural changes on the island, particularly after European contact. The loss of much of the Rapa Nui language and tradition complicates efforts to understand this enigmatic writing system.
Mysteries and Theories: The origins, purpose, and significance of Rongo Rongo remain uncertain, leading to various scholarly interpretations. Some researchers propose that it served as a mnemonic device for oral traditions, while others speculate it may contain historical records or religious texts. The decline of the Rapa Nui culture post-European contact, including the decimation of the population due to disease and slavery, has resulted in the loss of crucial contextual knowledge needed for deciphering the script. Consequently, understanding Rongo Rongo is not only a linguistic challenge but also a reflection of the broader cultural transformations faced by the Rapa Nui people.
7. The Piri Reis Map
Historical Context: The Piri Reis Map, created in 1513 by the Ottoman admiral and cartographer Piri Reis, is a remarkable world map that illustrates parts of Europe, Africa, and South America. Notably, it includes a depiction of the South American coastline and, intriguingly, a representation of Antarctica, despite the continent being largely uncharted at the time. The map is a significant artifact of early cartography, showcasing the navigational skills and geographical knowledge of the early 16th century.
Mysteries and Theories: The accuracy of the Piri Reis Map, especially regarding Antarctica, has sparked considerable debate among historians and cartographers. Some theorists suggest that ancient civilizations possessed advanced knowledge of geography, possibly mapping regions long before modern exploration. Others argue that the map was drawn from earlier sources, potentially lost to history. The presence of detailed coastal outlines and geographic features has led to speculation about the sources Piri Reis may have utilized, fueling discussions about the transmission of knowledge across cultures and the extent of maritime exploration in ancient times.
8. The Disappearance of the Roman Legion
Historical Context: The Ninth Roman Legion, known for its military campaigns in Britain, mysteriously vanished from historical records around the 2nd century AD, leading to speculation and intrigue regarding its fate. Established as a formidable fighting force, the legion played a crucial role in the Roman conquest and pacification of Britain. However, by the early 2nd century, references to the Ninth Legion become scarce, culminating in its enigmatic disappearance from the annals of history.
Mysteries and Theories: Theories regarding the fate of the Ninth Roman Legion include defeat in battle, relocation, or even disbandment. Some historians propose that the legion may have faced significant challenges in the tumultuous political landscape of Britain, leading to its demise. Recent archaeological investigations suggest that the legion might have been stationed in Scotland, revealing new insights into Roman military strategies and their operational capabilities in the region. The mystery of the Ninth Legion continues to captivate historians, emphasizing the broader themes of military logistics, engagement, and the complexities of Roman expansion in the face of local resistance.
Solving the Mystery of the Lost Roman Legion | History Hit Series
9. The Stone Spheres of Costa Rica
Historical Context: The stone spheres, commonly referred to as "Las Bolas," were first discovered in the Diquís Delta region of Costa Rica during the 1930s. These meticulously crafted spheres are believed to date back to the Diquís culture, which flourished between 500 and 1500 CE. The spheres vary in size, with some measuring over two meters in diameter and weighing several tons. Their construction demonstrates advanced stone-working techniques, as they are made from gabbro, a type of rock that is difficult to shape. The Diquís culture, known for its rich artistic traditions and complex social structures, left a significant impact on the region, although much of their history remains obscure due to the lack of written records.
Mysteries and Theories: The purpose of the stone spheres remains one of archaeology's enduring mysteries. Various theories have emerged regarding their significance. Some researchers propose that the spheres functioned as markers for territorial boundaries, signifying the limits of tribal lands or important sites. Others suggest they held religious or ceremonial importance, possibly serving as emblems of power or status for elite members of society. The precision of their construction and alignment raises questions about the level of knowledge possessed by the Diquís culture, particularly regarding geometry and landscape. Despite extensive research, the exact reasons for their creation and placement continue to elude experts, sparking ongoing debates and intrigue in the archaeological community.
The Mysterious Stone Spheres of Costa Rica Explained
10. The Menhirs of Carnac
Historical Context: The Menhirs of Carnac, located in Brittany, France, represent one of the largest collections of megalithic stones in the world, consisting of over 3,000 standing stones. These menhirs date back to the Neolithic period, around 4500 BCE, indicating a sophisticated level of social organization and monumental construction among prehistoric peoples. The alignment and arrangement of the stones suggest a well-thought-out design, possibly reflecting the cultural and spiritual beliefs of the societies that erected them. The site includes various configurations of stones, such as rows, circles, and dolmens, each contributing to the site's historical and archaeological significance.
Mysteries and Theories: The exact purpose of the Carnac menhirs remains a topic of scholarly debate. Some theories suggest that they served as astronomical observatories, aligning with significant celestial events such as solstices and equinoxes. This hypothesis implies a complex understanding of astronomy and timekeeping among the prehistoric inhabitants. Others propose that the menhirs functioned as religious sites, perhaps serving as places for rituals or communal gatherings. Their alignment and placement across the landscape may also indicate a connection to burial practices or ancestral veneration. Despite extensive research, the true meaning and function of the menhirs are still shrouded in mystery, inviting visitors and scholars alike to ponder the beliefs and practices of the ancient peoples who constructed them.
11. The Pyramid of Huapalcalco
Historical Context: The Pyramid of Huapalcalco is a lesser-known archaeological site located in the state of Hidalgo, Mexico. Its origins can be traced back to the Preclassic period of Mesoamerican history, which spans roughly from 2000 BCE to 250 CE. Unlike more famous pyramids, such as those found in Teotihuacan or Tikal, Huapalcalco is often overlooked, yet it offers valuable insights into the early development of complex societies in the region. The pyramid features a unique architectural style, with a series of terraces and structures that suggest it was a significant center for the local population.
Mysteries and Theories: The precise purpose of the Pyramid of Huapalcalco remains unclear, leading to various interpretations among scholars. Some researchers believe it served as a ceremonial center, possibly used for religious rituals or gatherings. Its design may indicate that it played a role in the cosmological beliefs of the ancient inhabitants, reflecting their connection to the divine and the natural world. Alternatively, others argue that the pyramid was integral to regional trade networks, serving as a hub for commerce and cultural exchange among different Mesoamerican civilizations. The lack of extensive excavation and research at Huapalcalco leaves many questions unanswered, making it a tantalizing subject for future archaeological exploration and study.
12. The Baghdad Battery
Historical Context: The so-called Baghdad Battery, discovered in 1938 near Baghdad, Iraq, consists of a clay jar, a metal cylinder, and a metal cap. This artifact dates back to the Parthian period, around 250 BCE to 250 CE, and has sparked significant interest due to its unique configuration. The components of the battery suggest that it may have been used in some form of electrochemical process. The discovery of similar artifacts in the region has led to debates about the technological capabilities of ancient civilizations in the Near East.
Mysteries and Theories: The true function of the Baghdad Battery remains highly speculative, leading to various theories among researchers. Some suggest that it could be an ancient galvanic cell, potentially used for electroplating or other early forms of electrical applications. However, this hypothesis is controversial, as there is limited evidence to support its practical use. Alternative theories propose that the device may have had a more mundane purpose, such as a simple storage container or a vessel for rituals. The absence of similar artifacts and the lack of historical documentation regarding its use complicate efforts to understand its significance. As a result, the Baghdad Battery continues to captivate the imaginations of historians and archaeologists, serving as a reminder of the complexities and mysteries surrounding ancient technologies.
13. The Nazca Lines
Historical Context: The Nazca Lines are a series of large geoglyphs etched into the desert floor of the Nazca Desert in southern Peru. Created between 500 BC and 500 AD by the Nazca culture, these designs depict various animals, plants, and geometric shapes, some stretching over hundreds of meters.
Mysteries and Theories: The purpose of the Nazca Lines remains a subject of fascination and debate. Some researchers believe they served a religious or ceremonial function, possibly related to water and agriculture, while others suggest they were astronomical markers, aligning with celestial events. The massive scale of the geoglyphs raises questions about the methods used for their construction, as well as the societal organization required to create and maintain them. Recent studies have explored the possibility that the lines were part of a larger water management system, adding layers to their interpretation and significance.
14. The Pyramids of Giza
Historical Context: The Pyramids of Giza, located on the outskirts of Cairo, Egypt, are among the most iconic monuments of the ancient world. Built during the Fourth Dynasty of the Old Kingdom, the most famous of these pyramids is the Great Pyramid of Khufu, also known as Cheops. Constructed around 2580–2560 BC, it originally stood at 146.6 meters (481 feet) tall, making it the tallest man-made structure for over 3,800 years.
Mysteries and Theories:The pyramids served as monumental tombs for pharaohs and were constructed using millions of limestone blocks. The precision and engineering skills required for their construction continue to astound historians and archaeologists. The complex also includes the Sphinx, a limestone statue with the body of a lion and the head of a pharaoh, which adds to the mystique of the site.
The Pyramids of Giza are not only a testament to ancient Egyptian civilization but also reflect the culture's beliefs in the afterlife and the importance of the pharaoh as a divine ruler. Today, they are a UNESCO World Heritage site and remain a significant draw for tourists and researchers alike.
15. The Disappearance of the Maya
Historical Context: The Maya civilization flourished in Mesoamerica, particularly in present-day Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras, from around 2000 BC until the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century. The height of their power is typically dated to the Classic Period (250–900 AD), marked by impressive city-states, sophisticated mathematics, astronomy, and a complex written language.
Mysteries and Theories: The reasons behind the decline of the Maya civilization in the southern lowlands are still debated among scholars. Factors such as environmental degradation, climate change, warfare, and societal upheaval likely contributed to the abandonment of major cities by the end of the 10th century. However, the Maya did not vanish entirely; many of their descendants still live in the region today, maintaining aspects of their rich cultural heritage.
Archaeological studies continue to uncover new insights into Maya society, including the discovery of large urban centers and advanced agricultural techniques that allowed them to thrive in challenging environments. The legacy of the Maya is evident in their monumental architecture, art, and the ongoing practices of contemporary Maya communities.
16. Machu Picchu
Historical Context: Machu Picchu, an ancient Incan city located in the Andes Mountains of Peru, is one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world. Believed to have been built in the 15th century during the reign of Emperor Pachacuti, Machu Picchu served as a royal estate and religious site. Its exact purpose remains a topic of research and speculation.
Mysteries and Theories: The site is renowned for its sophisticated dry-stone construction, agricultural terraces, and stunning location, sitting at an altitude of 2,430 meters (7,970 feet). The ruins include temples, plazas, and residential areas, showcasing the Incas' advanced engineering and architectural skills.
Machu Picchu was brought to international attention in 1911 by American historian Hiram Bingham. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and attracts millions of tourists each year, contributing to Peru's economy while also raising concerns about preservation and sustainability.
17. The Terracotta Army
Historical Context: The Terracotta Army is a collection of thousands of life-sized clay soldiers buried with China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, around 210–209 BC. Discovered in 1974 by local farmers near Xi'an, the army was created to accompany the emperor in the afterlife, reflecting the belief in an afterlife that was prevalent in ancient Chinese culture.
Mysteries and Theories: The Terracotta Army comprises over 8,000 soldiers, along with chariots and horses, each with unique facial features and expressions. The scale of the project is staggering, with artisans working for decades to create this underground army. The site is part of a larger necropolis, which includes the emperor's tomb, still unexcavated.
Today, the Terracotta Army is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of China's rich history. Ongoing excavations and studies continue to reveal insights into ancient Chinese society, art, and military organization.
18. Göbekli Tepe
Historical Context: Göbekli Tepe, located in modern-day Turkey, is often cited as the world's oldest known temple complex, dating back to around 9600 BC. This site predates Stonehenge by over 6,000 years and challenges traditional views about the development of human societies.
Mysteries and Theories: The site consists of a series of circular and oval-shaped structures featuring massive stone pillars, many intricately carved with reliefs of animals and abstract symbols. Göbekli Tepe suggests that complex religious practices existed before the advent of agriculture, indicating that social organization and communal belief systems may have developed alongside hunter-gatherer lifestyles.
The significance of Göbekli Tepe lies in its implications for understanding the transition from nomadic to settled life, as it predates the establishment of permanent settlements and agriculture. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and continues to be a focal point for archaeological research.
19. The Ark of the Covenant
Historical Context: The Ark of the Covenant is a sacred object described in the Hebrew Bible, said to contain the stone tablets of the Ten Commandments given to Moses by God. According to biblical accounts, the Ark was constructed by the Israelites during their exodus from Egypt and served as a symbol of God's presence and covenant with His people.
Mysteries and Theories: The Ark's exact location has been a subject of speculation and intrigue for centuries. Some believe it was housed in the Temple of Solomon in Jerusalem, while others suggest it may have been hidden or destroyed during various historical upheavals. Theories about its current whereabouts range from claims of it being in Ethiopia, where the Ethiopian Orthodox Church asserts it is kept, to various archaeological pursuits to locate it.
The Ark of the Covenant continues to captivate the imagination of historians, theologians, and treasure hunters alike, representing the intersection of faith, history, and mystery.
20. The Minoan Civilization
Historical Context: The Minoan civilization, which thrived on the island of Crete from approximately 3000 to 1100 BC, is considered one of the earliest advanced civilizations in Europe. Known for their impressive palaces, particularly the Palace of Knossos, the Minoans developed a sophisticated society with advanced art, architecture, and trade networks.
Mysteries and Theories: Minoan culture is characterized by vibrant frescoes, pottery, and intricate jewelry, reflecting a society that valued aesthetics and craftsmanship. The Minoans are also known for their writing systems, including Linear A, which remains undeciphered, and Linear B, used later by the Mycenaeans.
The decline of the Minoan civilization is attributed to a combination of natural disasters, including volcanic eruptions and earthquakes, as well as potential invasions by Mycenaean Greeks. The legacy of the Minoans endures in their contributions to art, culture, and the development of later Greek civilization.
Decoding the Mystery of the Minoan Ancient Civilization
21. The Tunguska Event
Historical Context: The Tunguska Event refers to a massive explosion that occurred in 1908 over the remote region of Siberia, Russia. The explosion flattened an estimated 2,000 square kilometers of forest, yet no impact crater was found, leading to various hypotheses about its cause.
Mysteries and Theories: The most widely accepted explanation is that a meteoroid or comet exploded in the atmosphere, releasing energy equivalent to 10-15 megatons of TNT. However, alternative theories have emerged, including the possibility of a mini black hole or even extraterrestrial involvement. Despite extensive scientific investigation, the lack of physical evidence has left many questions unanswered, making the Tunguska Event a compelling case in the study of cosmic impacts and their effects on Earth.
22. The Loch Ness Monster
Historical Context: The Loch Ness Monster, affectionately known as "Nessie," is a legendary creature said to inhabit Loch Ness, a large freshwater lake in the Scottish Highlands. The legend dates back to ancient times, with the first recorded sighting in the 6th century AD.
Mysteries and Theories: Sightings of Nessie have sparked numerous investigations and debates about the creature's existence. Some believe it is a plesiosaur, a prehistoric marine reptile, while others suggest it could be a large sturgeon or even a hoax. The combination of folklore, eyewitness accounts, and modern sonar technology has kept the mystery alive, with many enthusiasts conducting searches for evidence. Despite various investigations and extensive media coverage, no conclusive proof of the Loch Ness Monster has been found, leaving the legend to thrive in popular culture. The enduring fascination with Nessie reflects humanity's desire to explore the unknown and the mysteries that lie beneath the surface.
23. The Antikythera Mechanism
Historical Context: Discovered in a shipwreck off the coast of Antikythera, Greece, the Antikythera Mechanism is an ancient analog computer dating back to around 150-100 BC. It is composed of a complex system of gears and is believed to have been used to predict astronomical positions and eclipses for calendrical and astrological purposes.
Mysteries and Theories: The sophistication of the Antikythera Mechanism has led to debates about the technological capabilities of ancient civilizations. Some scholars argue that it reflects advanced knowledge of astronomy and mechanics that was lost for centuries. The purpose of the device, while generally accepted as astronomical, also raises questions about its use in rituals or navigation. Ongoing research and imaging techniques continue to reveal new insights into its construction and capabilities, highlighting the ingenuity of its creators and the mysteries of ancient technology
The Antikythera Mechanism: Mystery That Is Finally Solved!
24. The Crystal Skulls
Historical Context: The crystal skulls are a collection of carved skulls made from clear or milky quartz, often attributed to ancient Mesoamerican cultures. The most famous of these skulls was discovered in the 19th century and has since been surrounded by controversy regarding its origin and purpose.
Mysteries and Theories: The origins of the crystal skulls are shrouded in mystery. Some claim they were created by ancient civilizations with advanced knowledge of carving techniques, while others suggest they are modern forgeries. The skulls are often linked to legends of possessing mystical powers or being repositories of ancient wisdom. Archaeologists have conducted studies to determine their age, but results have been inconclusive, prompting debates about their authenticity. The allure of the skulls lies in their enigmatic nature, as they continue to fuel the imagination of researchers and enthusiasts alike.
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25. The Lost City of Atlantis
Historical Context: Atlantis is a legendary island mentioned by the ancient Greek philosopher Plato in his dialogues "Timaeus" and "Critias." According to Plato, Atlantis was a powerful and advanced civilization that existed around 9,000 years before his time, only to be lost to the sea in a cataclysmic event. The story has captured the imagination of countless generations, leading to numerous explorations and theories.
Mysteries and Theories: The existence of Atlantis has been widely debated. Some theorists suggest it was a real place, possibly located in the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, or even Antarctica. Others argue that it was purely a fictional creation used by Plato to illustrate his philosophical ideas about society and morality. The lack of concrete evidence for its existence, combined with the fantastical nature of its description, has led many to view Atlantis as a myth rather than a historical reality. Nevertheless, the enduring fascination with the story continues to inspire explorations and speculations about lost civilizations.
26. The Great Sphinx of Giza
Historical Context: The Great Sphinx of Giza, a monumental limestone statue with the body of a lion and the head of a pharaoh, is one of the most iconic symbols of ancient Egypt. It is believed to have been constructed during the reign of Pharaoh Khafre around 2500 BC. The Sphinx is located on the Giza Plateau, near the pyramids, and has fascinated historians and archaeologists for centuries.
Mysteries and Theories: The purpose of the Sphinx remains a topic of speculation. Some scholars argue that it served as a guardian of the Giza Plateau, while others suggest it was a representation of the pharaoh himself, embodying the ideals of strength and wisdom. The erosion patterns on the Sphinx have led to debates about its age, with some suggesting it predates the pyramids by thousands of years. Additionally, the missing nose and other features have sparked theories about the iconoclasm that occurred throughout history, as well as the ongoing mystery of its original coloration and decoratio
Conclusion
The field of archaeology is an ever-evolving discipline that continuously challenges our perceptions of human history. Each archaeological mystery we encounter serves as a reminder of the intricacies of our past and the limitations of our current understanding. Archaeology is not merely the study of ancient artifacts and ruins; it is a window into the lives, cultures, and societies that shaped our world. As we delve deeper into these mysteries, we uncover not just historical facts, but also narratives that enrich our understanding of humanity itself.
One of the most fascinating aspects of archaeology is its ability to reveal the complexities of ancient civilizations. For instance, the discovery of an ancient city may provide evidence of sophisticated urban planning, trade routes, and social hierarchies. However, it can also uncover the darker aspects of human history, such as conflict, inequality, and environmental degradation. This duality emphasizes that human experience is not monolithic; rather, it is a tapestry woven from various threads of triumph and turmoil. Each archaeological find adds a new layer to our understanding, prompting us to question our assumptions and reinterpret the past.
As technology continues to advance, the potential for new discoveries grows exponentially. Innovative techniques such as ground-penetrating radar, 3D scanning, and DNA analysis are revolutionizing the way we approach archaeological research. These tools allow us to explore sites that were previously inaccessible or too delicate for traditional excavation methods. Moreover, they enable us to analyze artifacts and remains with unprecedented accuracy, shedding light on aspects of daily life, health, and even genetic lineage. Such advancements not only enhance our understanding of specific sites but also facilitate broader comparisons between cultures and time periods.
The ongoing pursuit of knowledge in archaeology is a journey filled with uncertainty and excitement. Each new discovery has the potential to reshape our understanding of ancient civilizations and their legacies. For instance, the unearthing of previously unknown structures or artifacts can lead to the reevaluation of established historical narratives. This constant flux underscores the importance of remaining open-minded and adaptable in our interpretations of the past. It is vital to approach archaeological findings with a sense of humility, acknowledging that our current understanding is always provisional and subject to revision.
Ultimately, the study of archaeology serves as a powerful reminder of the richness and diversity of human experience across time and space. It encourages us to appreciate the interconnectedness of cultures and the shared struggles and achievements that define our collective story. As we continue to explore the remnants of our ancestors, we not only seek knowledge about the past but also gain insights that can inform our present and future. In this way, archaeology becomes a bridge that connects us to the myriad experiences that have shaped humanity, inviting us to reflect on our own place within this ongoing narrative.
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