Overview

In a recent episode of his widely followed podcast, Joe Rogan and his guests delved into the longstanding enigmas of the Egyptian pyramids, focusing particularly on new radar evidence suggesting the existence of intricate underground structures beneath these ancient monuments. The discussion touched on advanced ancient engineering, possible lost civilizations, and the intersection of myth and emerging science—prompting new questions about humanity's distant past.

Underground Structures and Advanced Engineering

Rogan referenced synthetic aperture radar scans conducted by Italian researchers, which have reportedly revealed vast subterranean complexes beneath the pyramids. According to the guests, these scans indicate the presence of columns and spiral tubes forming what could be interpreted as an "energy grid" extending as deep as two kilometers underground. One guest, who had interviewed the Italian team, explained: "There are these structures, tubes, huge tubes that are the stranding underneath and we have noticed... these tubes have a sort of spiral nature."

The scale and complexity of these findings raise questions about the technological capabilities of ancient builders. Rogan emphasized the logistical marvel of the pyramids, noting that more than two million stones—some weighing up to 90 tons—were precisely aligned and transported over great distances. The conversation speculated that the society responsible may have possessed health and engineering technologies surpassing those currently known to mainstream archaeology.

Ancient Cataclysms and Lost Civilizations

The discussion also bridged ancient myth and geological science, highlighting Plato’s account of Atlantis. As recounted, the date given for Atlantis’s destruction—9,600 BC—aligns with a well-documented geological phenomenon known as Meltwater Pulse 1B, a sudden, massive sea level rise that occurred around 11,600 years ago. Rogan and his guests pointed out that this era coincides with the end of the Younger Dryas, a period marked by dramatic climatic upheaval.

"Nobody disputes that there was a Meltwater Pulse 1B. And it raised sea levels massively, literally overnight," one guest noted, suggesting that such cataclysms could have erased evidence of earlier advanced societies, supporting theories of lost civilizations far older than traditionally accepted by historians.

Sumerian Kings List and Longevity Speculation

The conversation shifted to ancient Mesopotamia, specifically the Sumerian Kings List, a document that blends historical rulers with legendary figures claimed to have reigned for tens of thousands of years. Rogan and his guests observed the strange juxtaposition of myth and reality, with some kings' reigns corresponding to plausible human lifespans and others described as living for millennia.

They speculated on the possibility of ancient longevity technologies, citing modern experiments in life extension. Rogan referenced hyperbaric chamber therapies and research on cellular aging, including studies showing the lengthening of telomeres—a marker of youthfulness—through specific medical protocols. He remarked, "We're real close to being able to do weird [stuff] right now. And there’s a lot of people that believe that if you can make it to 90 right now, you're going to be able to make it to like 300 years old." The implication: if ancient societies had cracked such technologies, it could help explain their monumental achievements.

The Ongoing Mystery

While the podcast acknowledged the speculative nature of some claims, it underscored the growing body of evidence that challenges the conventional timeline of human civilization. The combination of advanced underground structures, the alignment of mythic dates with geological events, and enigmatic ancient records like the Sumerian Kings List invites further scientific investigation.

For now, the mysteries beneath the pyramids remain unsolved, but as Rogan and his guests concluded, "There’s something strange under the pyramids," and the search for answers continues to captivate both researchers and the public alike.

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04-12-2025 om 22:46 geschreven door peter  

Neolithic Britain

Although Stonehenge is the most famous Neolithic construction in Britain, it is located close to two other notable features. One is Woodhenge, a timber monument about 3 kilometers from Stonehenge, that was discovered in a 1926 aerial photograph. Evidence from the site, such as pig remains, suggests it was a place associated with vitality and living worship.

Durrington Walls, unlike Stonehenge and Woodhenge, was not a ceremonial site but a settlement. It was situated close to Woodhenge, also about 3 kilometers from Stonehenge. Excavations two decades ago uncovered seven homes, but archaeologists estimate that the site once boasted around 1,000 homes and 4,000 residents. This would have made Durrington Walls the largest settlement in Europe for a portion of its suspected 500-year occupancy.

The series of recently discovered pits, whose perimeter encircles all three sites, underscores the close link between Woodhenge and Durrington Walls.

A Mysterious ring of Ancient Pits

Initially, some of the Durrington circle pits were dismissed as natural sinkholes. However, the researchers note that the pits’ internal structures and distributions do not correspond to what would be typical of sinkholes. The team concedes that some of the pits may’ve originated as natural features that were later excavated further. Analysis of the pits’ contents suggests possible bone-derived material and quartz.

Similar networks of large pits have been discovered elsewhere in Britain in recent decades. Large-scale investigations of the British pits have revealed that they were likely not used for hunting or storage. Commonly found near bodies of water, archaeologists interpret them as having ritual significance.

Exploring a Neolithic Mystery

Discovering and mapping the holes was only the beginning, as new research explores the environment and origins of the structures. Techniques employed in the study include advanced Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL) dating and environmental DNA (sedaDNA), along with more traditional methods such as sediment analysis, geochemistry, and borehole coring.

According to the team’s findings, Late Neolithic humans constructed the pits around the same time as Durrington Walls. Fine clay-silt layers at the bottoms of the 4.5-6.9 meter deep pits indicate that the pits were gradually infilled. The SedaDNA and soil chemistry analyses provided evidence for what types of plants grew in the area and how the pits fit into their surroundings. Notably, much of the DNA found in the infill was not from local sources.

A Deeper Understanding of Ancient Britain

“The recent work confirms that the circle of shafts surrounding Durrington Walls is without precedent within the UK,” said lead author Professor Vince Gaffney, of the University of Bradford. “These features were not simply dug and abandoned – they were part of a structured, monumental landscape that speaks to the complexity and sophistication of Neolithic society.”

The research marks a significant step away from viewing such finds as merely “mysterious holes” and toward seeing them as meaningful indicators of how ancient peoples lived. Presently, the researchers suggest that the holes marked a sacred boundary, cutting off the ceremonial activity occurring at Durrington Walls during the period.

Fundamentally, understanding the purpose of these features, their chronology, and their environment helps to sharpen our understanding of the lives of the Neolithic people of Britain.

The paper, “The Perils of Pits: Further Research at Durrington Walls Henge (2021–2025),” appeared in Internet Archaeology in November 2025.

• Ryan Whalen covers science and technology for The Debrief. He holds an MA in History and a Master of Library and Information Science with a certificate in Data Science. He can be contacted at ryan@thedebrief.org, and follow him on Twitter @mdntwvlf.

{ https://thedebrief.org/ }

03-12-2025 om 21:56 geschreven door peter  

Lost Amazon World Emerges From Bolivia's Hidden Wetlands

Gary Manners

Researchers have uncovered extensive pre-Hispanic settlements hidden beneath the waters and vegetation of Bolivia's Great Tectonic Lakes. Using advanced LiDAR technology and collaborative fieldwork with Indigenous communities, the Grupo de Trabajo para los Llanos de Moxos has revealed a sophisticated civilization that thrived between 600 and 1400 AD, transforming vast wetlands into productive agricultural landscapes through ingenious water management systems.

The discoveries, recently published in Frontiers, challenge long-held assumptions about the Amazon being a pristine, sparsely inhabited wilderness. Instead, it reveals generations of human innovation in one of the world's most challenging environments - the seasonally flooded savannas of the Llanos de Moxos, Bolivia's largest wetland system in the Amazon basin.

• LIDAR Identifies Vast Complexes Of A Lost Amazonian Civilization In Bolivia
• Lidar Scans Reveal Many Lost Cities, Thousands of Earthworks in the Amazon Rainforest

Engineering Marvels Hidden in Plain Sight

In September 2021, a team of specialists traveled to one of the least-documented areas of the Bolivian Amazon: the Great Tectonic Lakes of Exaltación in the department of Beni. The expedition, organized by the Grupo de Trabajo para los Llanos de Moxos (GTLM), brought together experts from the Wildlife Conservation Society, the National Museum of Natural History, the Institute of Ecology, the Biodiversity and Environment Research Center, the Aquatic Resources Research Center, and the Department of Anthropology of the Americas at the University of Bonn.

Between September 2021 and subsequent field seasons, researchers documented settlements at Paquío, Coquinal, Isla del Tesoro, and Jasschaja - each revealing different stages of habitation spanning eight centuries. What makes these findings extraordinary is the scale and sophistication of landscape engineering that allowed communities to thrive in an environment that floods dramatically with the seasons. The archaeological sites near Lakes Rogaguado and Ginebra represent one of the most significant pre-Columbian discoveries in recent years.

Panoramic view of Lake Ginebra.

(O. Torrico/WCS-Bolivia./Frontiers)

LiDAR surveys covering 8.6 square kilometers revealed complex networks of circular and rectangular ditches, some measuring up to 200 meters in diameter, alongside raised agricultural fields, drainage canals, and earthen platforms.

At the Coquinal site, researchers identified quadrangular ditches measuring 136 by 136 meters with lateral channels extending 185 to 220 meters toward the lake. These structures weren't randomly placed - they represent centuries of experimentation as communities developed increasingly sophisticated methods to control water flow and create stable areas for living and farming in a wetland that transforms dramatically throughout the year.

• Pre-Columbian Amazon Was Not So Virgin After All 
• Over 10000 Earthworks in the Amazon Revealed By LiDAR

A Balanced Diet From Water and Land

Excavations at the Paquío site, located 200 meters from Lake Rogaguado's shore, revealed shell middens and dense ceramic refuse that provide intimate glimpses into daily life. The site yielded 1,224 bone fragments representing at least 1,092 individual animals across six taxonomic groups. Fish dominated the assemblage, with 12 species identified including wolf fish, peacock bass, and the distinctive South American lungfish. Reptiles such as caimans, aquatic turtles, and snakes complemented a diet that also included mammals like capybaras, pacas, and armadillos.

Shell middens at the Paquío site.

(Credit: C. Jaimes/Frontiers)

Plant remains tell an equally compelling story. Analysis of 1,485 macroremains revealed evidence of maize cultivation alongside the harvesting of multiple palm species—moriche palm, corozo palm, cumare palm, totai palm, and peach palm. This botanical diversity, combined with the faunal evidence, points to a sophisticated subsistence strategy that balanced fishing, hunting, gathering, and agriculture. Rather than exploiting the environment unsustainably, these communities developed flexible ways of living that worked with the region's seasonal cycles, using periodic flooding as an opportunity rather than an obstacle.

Radiocarbon dating reveals two distinct occupation phases at Paquío: an early settlement around 600 AD and a more intensive occupation between 1000 and 1200 AD. The later phase coincided with the construction of extensive canal systems and raised fields connected to maize-based farming. At the nearby Jasschaja site, dating from 1300 to 1400 AD, evidence suggests intensified forest and crop management with greater botanical diversity.

Indigenous Knowledge Shapes Modern Research

The research was conducted in close collaboration with the Cayubaba and Movima Indigenous communities who continue to live in these landscapes. During the post-Covid-19 field seasons, representatives of the Cayubaba Indigenous Council, which includes 21 Cayubaba and Movima communities, assisted researchers in identifying areas for study, providing access to culturally important places, and specifying sites that should not be disturbed.

This partnership ensured the research reflected community priorities and contributed to a fuller understanding of the living heritage of the region. Through the Grupo de Trabajo para los Llanos de Moxos, Indigenous leaders and scientists are working together to link archaeological and ecological research with conservation initiatives. These efforts emphasize that the Llanos de Moxos is not only a center of biodiversity but also a landscape shaped through long human histories.

The region also holds prominence in ethnohistorical literature through its association with the legendary Land of Paititi. Historian Vera Tyuleneva's archival research suggests this area may have been the historical core of this mythical land, long sought after by explorers and missionaries since the sixteenth century. Father Agustín Zapata's 1693 account documented contact with the Cayubaba nation, led by a chief known as "El Gran Jefe Paititi," ruling over several villages with more than 2,000 individuals.

The newly discovered settlements add to a growing body of evidence suggesting the Amazon was home to far more extensive and sophisticated pre-Columbian societies than previously imagined. Similar discoveries using LiDAR technology have revealed urban centers throughout the Amazon basin, fundamentally changing our understanding of ancient Amazonian civilizations and their capacity to transform challenging environments into thriving cultural landscapes.

• Top image: Raised cultivation platforms near Lake Ginebra.
• Source: O. Torrico/WCS-Bolivia

By Gary Manners

References

{ https://www.ancient-origins.net/ }

02-12-2025 om 23:08 geschreven door peter  

A team of archaeologists led by researchers from Binghamton University has combined over 22,000 images of the primary quarry on Rapa Nui (Easter Island) to create the first-ever interactive 3D model of the remote site, allowing users to explore its archaeological marvels in unprecedented detail.

Unlike the more famous coastal platform that contains over a dozen Moai statues facing the ocean, the 3D model’s creators chose the Rano Raraku quarry because it contains over 1,000 statues in various forms of completion. The study also found evidence that the quarry was used by several different “tribes” working alongside each other.

“As an archeologist, the quarry is like the archeological Disneyland,” explained Binghamton University Professor of Anthropology Carl Lipo, lead author of the paper detailing the team’s work and member of a previous research team that proved the statues were ‘walked’ into place.

The team hopes their new 3D model will allow researchers to conduct studies in an extremely difficult-to-access area and to attract the attention of curious amateurs who may visit the island in person.

Building the Easter Island Moai Quarry 3D Model from Thousands of Images

According to a statement detailing the effort, the project began in October 2023 after a wildfire swept through the area, prompting locals to implore the scientific community to document the location. The Binghamton-led team, which also included Thomas Pingel and Kevin Heard from Binghamton’s Geography Department, responded by conducting the first-ever in-depth digital documentation of the quarry in January 2024.

Over 30 drone flights, the researchers collected high-resolution images from a wide range of perspectives, including angles unavailable to a ground observer.

“You can see things that you couldn’t actually see on the ground,” Professor Lipo said. “You can see tops and sides and all kinds of areas that just would never be able to walk to.”

Production technique revealed through 3D modeling. Unfinished moai attached to bedrock by “keels” along their backs demonstrate how carvers worked underneath from both sides until figures were separated from the source material. This production stage, difficult to document through traditional methods, is visible in the 3D model.

Image credit: Carl Lipo.

By the completion of the aerial sorties, the team had successfully captured around 22,000 images of the Rapa Nui quarry at 30-meter increments. Pingel said it was amazing how far the technology that allowed the team to collect the data used to create an interactive 3D VR model of the quarry has come in such a short time.

“The quality of this model is far above what could be done even just a couple of years ago, and the ability to share such a detailed model in a way that is accessible from anyone’s desktop computer is remarkable,” the researcher explained.

“The project was of a scale of complexity that had never been attempted before,” Professor Lipo added.

Users who want to explore the model will find a variety of built-in controls and functions, including the ability to zoom in and pan across individual statues and quarry features from numerous angles. Because the Rano Raraku quarry is located within a rugged, steep volcanic crater, the team said that traversing it on foot is too dangerous, making the 3D VR model of this remote location a priceless research tool.

“It has everything you can possibly imagine about moai construction, because that’s where they did most of the construction,” Professor Lipo said when describing the remote Easter Island quarry. “It’s always been this treasure of information and cultural heritage, but it’s remarkably underdocumented.”

Model Could Aid Researchers and Entice Visitors

When discussing the potential uses of their new interactive 3D VR map of the Easter Island Moai statue quarry, Lipo said their model could “open the door” for researchers by providing a three-dimensional replica and allowing everyday people the unusual opportunity to ‘visit’ the island without leaving home.

“We can say, ‘Here, go look at it.’ If you want to see the different kinds of carving, fly around and see stuff there,” the professor explained. “So, it’s really exciting to bring these two things together. We’re documenting something that really has needed to be documented, but in a way that’s really comprehensive and shareable.”

The researchers acknowledge that some locals have expressed concern that such a high-quality map may reduce tourism and eliminate the desire to see the site in person. However, Professor Lipo believes the detail and interactivity with the nearly 1,000 moai in a way previously unavailable will inspire people to go there in person and explore all of the wonders associated with the Island and its awe-inspiring sites, “because otherwise, you’re just seeing sort of snapshots of stuff.”

“What we would really like to do is be able to say, ‘Go visit it yourself. Learn from it,’ the researcher concluded. “This is an incredible landscape of stuff that you could really go visit, that you’ll want to see.”

The Binghamton University team’s 3D model of the Rapa Nui quarry is available to view online.

The paper “Megalithic statue (moai) production on Rapa Nui (Easter Island, Chile)” was published in PLOS One.

•  Christopher Plain is a Science Fiction and Fantasy novelist and Head Science Writer at The Debrief. Follow and connect with him on X, learn about his books at plainfiction.com, or email him directly at christopher@thedebrief.org.

{ https://thedebrief.org/category/science/ }

29-11-2025 om 18:45 geschreven door peter  

Story by Sophie Parker - Wiltshir

The pits were found with geophysics, then boreholes were made to test the sediment.

© Internet Archaeology journal

The discovery of a series of huge Neolithic pits have been confirmed at the Stonehenge World Heritage Site after initial research a few years ago.

The massive pits at Durrington Walls in Wiltshire are set at regular intervals, ten metres in diameter and more than five metres deep.

Professor Vince Gaffney said that as a "cohesive structure" they could be "one of the largest prehistoric structures in Britain, if not the largest prehistoric structure".

The new research has been published in the Internet Archaeology Journal and concludes pits are almost certainly man-made and more than 4,000 years old.

Durrington Walls sits next to Woodhenge in the Stonehenge landscape

© Historic England Archive/Heritage Images via Getty Images

Prof Gaffney, from the University of Bradford, explained it would have taken a lot of effort to dig the holes - around two storeys deep - from the chalk landscape.

The horseshoe-shaped pits also link to another monument near Larkhill.

"The circle is pretty accurate. It suggests that people were pacing the distances out to make sure that the pits were aligned at the same distance all the way around as the distance from the henge to the earlier enclosure" he said.

Prof Gaffney said it added to previous evidence that people were counting and applying it.

"They're inscribing something about their cosmology, their belief systems, into the earth itself in a very dramatic way."

Researchers had surveyed 12 sq km (7.4 sq m) of the landscape when they spotted the giant holes.

No longer visible to the naked eye and too big to realistically excavate very quickly, they made narrow boreholes to take samples of the material from the features.

Experts analysed sediment from the pits to date them

© Internet Archaeology journal

DNA extracted from the samples revealed remains of animals, including sheep and cattle.

The samples also helped experts date the excavations.

Dr Tim Kinnaird from the University of St Andrews called it a "super henge" and used a method called luminescence dating: "So just before that sediment falls into the pit, it's exposed to daylight, so we can date the time of construction."

It also revealed they were kept open for 1,000 years: "So that spans changing cultures," he explained.

• Follow BBC Wiltshire on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630.

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29-11-2025 om 18:18 geschreven door peter  

Archaeologists have proven the existence of a lost ring of pits near Stonehenge, and say it could be Britain's largest prehistoric structure.

The ring of more than 20 pits, some of which are 10 metres deep and five metres wide, extends in an arc more than a mile across.

At their centre are the ancient sites of Durrington Walls and Woodhenge, 1.8 miles (2.9 kilometres) northeast of Stonehenge, where the henge builders held ritual feasts.

Using an array of novel scientific techniques, researchers now say that these pits were likely constructed by Neolithic people around 4,500 years ago.

Researchers say that carving the pits into Wiltshire's chalky ground would have taken an enormous amount of planning and effort.

Lead researcher Professor Vincent Gaffney, of the University of Bradford, told the Daily Mail that the vast structure was a 'cosmological statement'.

He says: 'They link Durrington walls henge and another site at Larkhill – a causewayed enclosure about a thousand years earlier. '

'And in doing so, inscribed a boundary into the landscape – setting aside an area of special significance.'

Scientists have proven the existence of a lost ring of pits nearby Stonehenge, which is likely the UK's largest prehistoric monument 

The pits surround ancient sites of Durrington Walls and Woodhenge, 1.8 miles (2.9 kilometres) northeast of Stonehenge (pictured). These sites are believed to be where the Stonehenge builders held ritual feasts 

The pits surrounding Durrington Walls were first found in 2020, and were immediately hailed as one of Britain's most impressive ancient sites.

The discovery of the pit circle appeared to further cement the Salisbury Plane's reputation as a uniquely important religious site for Britain's Neolithic people. 

This area is not only home to Stonehenge, but also a wider series of interconnected ceremonial structures, stone circles, and cemeteries from the Stone Age.

Durrington Walls, which sits at the epicentre of the pit circle, is a 'superhenge' that is believed to be the largest anywhere in the UK.

Likewise, the nearby 'Woodhenge' was an enormous timber monument built around 2500 BC, consisting of six concentric rings of posts of varying size forming an oval monument 40 metres across.

However, scientists have questioned whether the pits were really dug by humans or whether they might have been natural features of the landscape.

In a new research paper, titled 'The Perils of Pits', Professor Gaffney and his co–authors present a new batch of scientific evidence to prove the pits' human origins.

Since no one technique could answer all of their questions, the researchers deployed an array of techniques to work out the exact structure of the pits.

The pits encircle the ancient sites of Durrington Walls and Woodhenge. Woodhenge was an enormous timber monument built around 2500 BC, consisting of six concentric rings of posts of varying size forming an oval monument 40 metres across. Pictured: Stone pillars marking the locations of Woodhenge's timber posts

Scientists had questioned whether the pits were really man–made. So scientists used an array of scientific tests to work out their exact shape and structure 

First, they used a technique called electrical resistance tomography, which measures changes in electrical resistance at the surface to work out the size of underground structures.

Then, radar and magnetic imaging were used to assess their depth and shape.

'This in itself did not prove these features to be man–made,' says Professor Gaffney.

'So sediment cores were extracted and an array of techniques, including novel geochemistry, were used to characterise the nature of the soils.'

'Optically stimulated luminescence' was used to work out the last time that the soils were exposed to the sun, and 'sedDNA' to extract plant and animal DNA directly from the dirt.

This revealed that each pit had the same pattern of repeating layers, starting in the late Neolithic period – something that would be extremely unlikely to happen naturally.

These techniques also identified the DNA of sheep and cattle, which suggests that the pit circle was being occupied and farmed at the time.

Professor Gaffney says: 'It confirms that this structure – probably the largest prehistoric monument in Britain at least – is a purposefully constructed monument in a landscape which is itself exceptional.'

The researchers used a technique called electrical resistance tomography, which measures changes in electrical resistance at the surface to work out the size of underground structures (illustrated)

The researchers found that the pits had a consistent pattern of layers and even contained DNA of cattle and sheep. This suggests that they were deliberately built by humans 

By showing that these vast pits were carved by humans, the researchers have shown that Britain's ancient people were much more organised than had previously been believed.

'The size of the structure demonstrates the society they lived in was capable of planning and motivating large numbers of people for religious purposes,' says Professor Gaffney.

Read More

• Stonehenge's secret SISTER: Ancient burial site discovered in Dorset 

The pit circle is so large that you cannot see across to the other side, but still traces a near–perfect circle around Durrington Walls.

This regularity suggests that the pits must have been laid out by pacing, which implies that the people of ancient Britain had a numerical system for counting.

If true, this could be some of the very earliest evidence for the ability to count in Neolithic Britain.

However, Professor Gaffney says we will 'probably not' ever know exactly why these pits were built.

The Stonehenge monument standing today was the final stage of a four part building project that ended 3,500 years ago

Stonehenge is one of the most prominent prehistoric monuments in Britain. The Stonehenge that can be seen today is the final stage that was completed about 3,500 years ago. 

According to the monument's website, Stonehenge was built in four stages:   

First stage: The first version of Stonehenge was a large earthwork or Henge, comprising a ditch, bank and the Aubrey holes, all probably built around 3100 BC. 

The Aubrey  holes are round pits in the chalk, about one metre (3.3 feet) wide and deep, with steep sides and flat bottoms. 

Stonehenge (pictured) is one of the most prominent prehistoric monuments in Britain

They form a circle about 86.6 metres (284 feet) in diameter. 

Excavations revealed cremated human bones in some of the chalk filling, but the holes themselves were likely not made to be used as graves, but as part of a religious ceremony.

After this first stage, Stonehenge was abandoned and left untouched for more than 1,000 years. 

Second stage: The second and most dramatic stage of Stonehenge started around 2150 years BC, when about 82 bluestones from the Preseli mountains in south-west Wales were transported to the site. It's thought that the stones, some of which weigh four tonnes each, were dragged on rollers and sledges to the waters at Milford Haven, where they were loaded onto rafts.

They were carried on water along the south coast of Wales and up the rivers Avon and Frome, before being dragged overland again near Warminster and Wiltshire.

The final stage of the journey was mainly by water, down the river Wylye to Salisbury, then the Salisbury Avon to west Amesbury. 

The journey spanned nearly 240 miles, and once at the site, the stones were set up in the centre to form an incomplete double circle. 

During the same period, the original entrance was widened and a pair of Heel Stones were erected. The nearer part of the Avenue, connecting Stonehenge with the River Avon, was built aligned with the midsummer sunrise. 

Third stage: The third stage of Stonehenge, which took place about 2000 years BC, saw the arrival of the sarsen stones (a type of sandstone), which were larger than the bluestones.

They were likely brought from the Marlborough Downs (40 kilometres, or 25 miles, north of Stonehenge). 

The largest of the sarsen stones transported to Stonehenge weighs 50 tonnes, and transportation by water would not have been possible, so it's suspected that they were transported using sledges and ropes. 

Calculations have shown that it would have taken 500 men using leather ropes to pull one stone, with an extra 100 men needed to lay the rollers in front of the sledge.

These stones were arranged in an outer circle with a continuous run of lintels - horizontal supports. 

Inside the circle, five trilithons - structures consisting of two upright stones and a third across the top as a lintel - were placed in a horseshoe arrangement, which can still be seen today. 

Final stage: The fourth and final stage took place just after 1500 years BC, when the smaller bluestones were rearranged in the horseshoe and circle that can be seen today.

The original number of stones in the bluestone circle was probably around 60, but these have since been removed or broken up. Some remain as stumps below ground level. 

Source: Stonehenge.co.uk 

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28-11-2025 om 16:51 geschreven door peter  

 3D Model Unlocks Just Who Made Easter Island's Moai

Gary Manners

Researchers at Binghamton University have created the first comprehensive three-dimensional model of Easter Island's Rano Raraku quarry, providing unprecedented insights into how the iconic moai statues were produced. The groundbreaking digital reconstruction, built from over 11,000 drone photographs, reveals 30 distinct workshop areas where ancient Polynesian carvers simultaneously created the massive stone figures, challenging long-held assumptions about centralized authority in monument construction.

The project emerged from necessity after a devastating wildfire swept through the quarry in October 2023. When researchers arrived at Rapa Nui in January 2024, a local community group requested comprehensive documentation in case the site suffered permanent damage. Professor Carl Lipo from Binghamton University's Department of Anthropology, along with colleagues Thomas Pingel and Kevin Heard from the Geography Department, seized the opportunity to create what he describes as "archeological Disneyland" in digital form.

• Easter Island and the Mysteries of the Moai
• Photos Reveal Giant Easter Island Moai Statues are Covered in Mysterious Symbols

Mapping the Sacred Quarry

The team conducted approximately 30 drone flights, capturing 22,000 high-resolution images at 30-meter increments above the volcanic crater. Using advanced computer software, they stitched these photographs into a detailed three-dimensional model that took months to complete. The resulting interactive visualization allows anyone with an internet connection to explore the quarry from angles impossible to see even when physically present on the remote island.

"You can see things that you couldn't actually see on the ground," explained Lipo in a statement from Binghamton University. "You can see tops and sides and all kinds of areas that you'd never be able to walk to." The quarry sits within a volcanic crater too steep and rugged to safely traverse, making traditional documentation methods incomplete and potentially dangerous.

The comprehensive 3D model of Rano Raraku quarry reveals complex spatial organization of production activities across the quarry.

(PLOS ONE)

The model documented 426 moai in various stages of completion, 341 extraction trenches, 133 voids where finished statues once stood, and five anchor points used for lowering the massive figures down slopes. Perhaps most significantly, it revealed production features previously unknown to researchers, including quarrying areas on the crater's exterior slope and a sophisticated system of carved holes and bollards that facilitated statue transport.

• Study Claims to Have Solved Mystery of Giant Easter Island Hats
• New Moai Statue Found on Chile's Easter Island Excites Researchers

Unfinished moai attached to bedrock by “keels” along their backs demonstrate how carvers worked underneath from both sides until figures were separated from the source material. This production stage, difficult to document through traditional methods, is visible in the 3D model.

(Carl Lipo/Binghampton University)

Decentralized Production Challenges Assumptions

The research, published in the journal PLOS One on November 26, fundamentally challenges theories that monument building requires hierarchical political structures. By identifying 30 separate workshop areas, each employing different carving techniques and working simultaneously, the team demonstrated that moai production followed a decentralized, clan-based pattern rather than centralized control.

"We see separate workshops that really align to different clan groups that are working intensively in their specific areas," Lipo noted. "You can really see graphically from the construction that there's a series of statues being made here, another series of statues here, and that they're lined up next to each other. It's different workshops."

This pattern aligns with historical accounts from early ethnographers who described Rapa Nui as organized into multiple independent kin-based groups competing for prestige through monument construction.

The digital model revealed at least three distinct quarrying methods used across the site. In 143 cases, carvers defined facial features before outlining the head and body. Another 120 instances show blocks completely outlined before detailed carving began. Five examples demonstrate sideways carving into near-vertical cliff faces. This technological diversity suggests autonomous groups adapting to local geological conditions rather than following standardized procedures imposed by a central authority.

The findings carry implications far beyond Easter Island archaeology. As societies worldwide grapple with questions of governance and cooperation, Rapa Nui provides evidence that complex cooperative activities and large-scale projects can emerge through horizontal social networks rather than vertical power structures. The island's inhabitants successfully coordinated monumental construction across generations while maintaining decentralized political organization.

Moai statues at Ahu Akivi on Easter Island.

(Phil Whitehouse / CC BY 2.0)

Preserving Cultural Heritage Through Technology

Thomas Pingel emphasized the revolutionary nature of their technological approach: "The quality of this model is far above what could be done even just a couple of years ago, and the ability to share such a detailed model in a way that is accessible from anyone's desktop computer is remarkable." The project represents a leap forward in archaeological documentation, offering preservation benefits alongside research value.

The three-dimensional documentation serves as a crucial baseline for monitoring erosion, climate impacts, tourism effects, and site degradation at the UNESCO World Heritage location. Following the 2022 wildfire that threatened the quarry, local heritage managers from the Rapa Nui Comunidad Indígena Mau Henua recognized the urgent need for comprehensive records to assess damage and develop protection strategies.

Despite 140 years of documentation efforts beginning with Lieutenant-Captain Geiseler's 1882 descriptions, systematic data for Rano Raraku remained incomplete. Katherine Routledge's pioneering 1914 survey inventoried 293 moai, but subsequent studies produced varying counts and incomplete publications. The new model finally provides researchers and cultural heritage managers with comprehensive, accessible data for the first time.

Looking forward, Lipo hopes the model will inspire rather than replace physical visits. "People on the island are afraid that if we build three-dimensional models that no one will go to the island," he acknowledged.

"But I think this actually will inspire people to go there. Because otherwise, you're just seeing sort of snapshots of stuff. This is an incredible landscape of stuff that you could really go visit, that you'll want to see."

The research demonstrates how ancient technology and engineering knowledge enabled Polynesian seafarers to accomplish remarkable feats. Previous experiments showed that relatively small teams of 15-50 people could transport even the largest moai by "walking" them upright using ropes, eliminating the need for massive centralized labor forces. The quarry evidence now confirms this decentralized production model extended to statue creation itself.

The interactive 3D model is freely accessible online, allowing researchers, students, and curious observers worldwide to explore this archaeological treasure. The team will continue analyzing the model to extract new insights about quarrying strategies, production sequences, and social organization. As Lipo emphasizes, this unprecedented documentation tool enables analysis that was never possible with traditional methods, potentially revealing new chapters in the story of one of humanity's most enigmatic achievements.

• Top image: The main quarry of Easter Island, home to nearly 1,000 moai statues.  
• Source: Carl Lipo/Binghampton University

By Gary Manners

References

{ https://www.ancient-origins.net/news-history-archaeology }

27-11-2025 om 21:51 geschreven door peter  

Easter Island mystery is SOLVED: Scientists finally pinpoint who built the iconic stone heads 900 years ago

• READ MORE: New 'stone head' statue mysteriously appears on Easter Island

By WILIAM HUNTER, SENIOR SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY REPORTER

One of the biggest mysteries surrounding Easter Island may finally be solved - as scientists pinpoint who built the iconic stone heads over 900 years ago.

In the past, researchers assumed that the 12 to 80-ton statues would have required the combined efforts of hundreds of labourers to build and move.

However, new archaeological evidence shows that the statues, known as moai, were not carved by a single powerful chiefdom.

Instead, each moai was carved by a small clan or by an individual family, with as few as four to six people working on a single statue.

Using a new 3D model of the island's main moai quarry, which you can explore below, archaeologists identified 30 unique 'workshops' where the statues were produced.

The researchers found that each clan seemed to have had their own unique artistic style, specialised techniques, and preferred digging sites.

Lead author Professor Carl Lipo, of Binghamton University, says: 'We see separate workshops that really align to different clan groups that are working intensively in their specific areas.

'You can really see graphically from the construction that there's a series of statues being made here, another series of statues here and that they're lined up next to each other.'

Researchers have finally solved the mystery of the Easter Island heads (pictured), as they reveal who built these enormous monuments 900 years ago 

Scientists have combined 22,000 photos of the Rapa Nui quarry, where hundreds of heads can be found, into a single 3D model (pictured) that you can explore below

Moai production on Rapa Nui began sometime around the 13th century as Polynesian communities began to carve ever larger monuments.

By the time the first Western explorers arrived in the 1700s, there were almost 1,000 statues dotted around the island, with many more lying partly finished inside the Rano Raraku quarry.

However, how and why this island community invested such vast resources in building these monuments has remained a mystery.

'The quarry is like the archaeological Disneyland,' says Professor Lipo.

'It's always been this treasure of information and cultural heritage, but it's remarkably underdocumented.'

In a new study, published in the journal PLoS One, Professor Lippo and his colleagues attempted to solve this puzzle by creating a detailed digital map of the quarry.

Using a drone, the researchers took some 22,000 pictures of the site and stitched them into a single 3D model that anyone can explore.

In addition to preserving the site for future study, this incredible map has also revealed some surprising details that have remained hidden from previous studies.

Using a new 3D model of the site where the heads, known as moai, were produced, scientists revealed that each head was manufactured by a small family or clan rather than by a central authority 

Professor Lipo says: 'You can see things that you couldn't actually see on the ground. You can see tops and sides and all kinds of areas that just would never be able to walk to.'

Importantly, this revealed just how different each of the workshops really was.

For example, the moai were usually carved by refining the facial details first before outlining the head and body.

But others carved out the entire block first before starting on the face, while others worked sideways into the cliffs.

Likewise, some moai bear the distinct signs of a unique artistic vision, including some which have a distinctively feminine appearance.

The workshops also appear to have been divided by natural features of the rock, rather than by broad geographical areas.

The researchers say this shows that access to the quarry wasn't controlled by a single authority, but rather that individual groups negotiated between themselves.

These findings challenge the view that large monuments like the moai are evidence of a large, powerful hierarchy that mobilised lots of people on a single project.

Archaeologists found evidence of 30 different 'workshops' (picture), each with their own unique style and methods 

Some clans even had their own unique style, with one group producing a female moai (pictured)

Easter Island timeline 

This supports a growing amount of evidence that building and moving the moai wouldn't have required nearly as much labour as previous researchers believed.

In the past, people believed that the moai were dragged on their backs from the quarry to their final positions, which would have taken a huge amount of effort.

But in a recent study, anthropologists found that the people of Rapa Nui likely used ropes to rock the statues in a zig–zag pattern.

By attaching ropes to either side of the head and pulling back and forth, the moai can be rocked side to side and shuffled forward in a 'walking' motion.

This technique would have allowed small teams of people to move the enormous moai over long distances with relatively little effort.

The stone heads were then moved along specially made 'moai roads', which connected the quarry to their final destination. 

Made to be around 4.5 metres wide with a concave profile, the researchers found that the specific shape of these roads helped to stabilise the heads and made them more likely to shuffle forwards. 

Using a combination of 3D modelling and real–life experiments, Professor Lipo and his collaborators previously found that they could 'walk' a moai with just 18 people.

This method proved so easy that people only needed to pull the ropes with one hand once the rocking had started. 

This supports the idea that the moai were produced and moved by a far smaller number of people than scientists had previously thought, with studies showing that as few as 18 people could 'walk' the sculpture using ropes 

This is further evidence that moai production likely took place on a small scale, with only a few people needing to be involved at any time.

The researchers estimate that making a moai would only take four to six carvers and as few as 10 to 20 additional personnel to carry supplies and help with tool and rope production.

This makes sense since anthropologists believe that Rapa Nui was not politically unified, but instead consisted of many small and independent family groups.  

Professor Lipo says: 'When we look at the ability for people to move giant statues, it doesn't take that many people to do it.

'So that it really connects all the dots between the number of people it takes to move the statues, the number of places, the scale at which the quarrying is happening and then the scale of the communities.'

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{ https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/index.html }

27-11-2025 om 18:01 geschreven door peter  

Analyzing the Controversial Ancient Aliens Theory: Separating Fact from Fiction

Illustration of ancient aliens and its host

What is the Ancient Aliens Theory? The ancient aliens theory suggests that extraterrestrial beings have been visiting Earth for thousands of years, and that they have played a significant role in the development of human civilization. Proponents of the theory argue that ancient texts and artwork depict evidence of alien visitation, and that many of the world’s greatest achievements can be attributed to extraterrestrial influence.

Arguments For the Ancient Aliens Theory:

• Ancient Texts: Supporters of the ancient aliens theory point to various ancient texts, such as the Sumerian tablets and the Hindu Vedas, which contain descriptions of gods and flying machines that could be interpreted as evidence of alien contact.
• Advanced Technology: The theory suggests that ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians and the Mayans, possessed advanced technologies that were not possible with the technology available at the time. Proponents argue that these technologies must have come from extraterrestrial sources.
• Unexplained Artifacts: There are many unexplained artifacts that have been discovered throughout history, such as the Antikythera Mechanism, an ancient Greek device that was used for predicting astronomical positions and eclipses. Some argue that these artifacts could only have been created with the help of extraterrestrial technology.
• Astronomical Alignments: Supporters of the ancient aliens theory argue that many ancient structures, such as the pyramids, were built with astronomical alignments that would have required advanced knowledge of the cosmos. Some suggest that this knowledge could have only come from extraterrestrial beings.
• Similarities Across Cultures: Proponents of the theory point out that many cultures around the world have similar stories and artwork depicting beings from the sky or gods with supernatural abilities. They argue that these similarities could be evidence of a shared history of alien visitation.
• Alien Abductions: Some supporters of the theory believe that alien abductions are proof of extraterrestrial visitation. They point to the consistency of reported experiences, such as being taken aboard a spacecraft and subjected to medical procedures, as evidence of a real phenomenon.
• Crop Circles: The phenomenon of crop circles, intricate patterns that appear in crop fields, has been attributed by some to extraterrestrial activity. Supporters of the ancient aliens theory argue that these patterns could be a form of communication from alien beings.
• Ancient Cave Paintings: Some ancient cave paintings depict figures that appear to be wearing space suits or helmets, leading some to suggest that they could be evidence of ancient astronaut visitation.

Arguments Against the Ancient Aliens Theory:

• Lack of Evidence: Critics of the theory argue that there is no concrete evidence to support the idea that aliens have visited Earth. While some ancient texts and artwork can be interpreted in this way, there is no solid proof of extraterrestrial contact.
• Human Ingenuity: Opponents of the theory argue that the achievements of ancient civilizations can be attributed to human ingenuity and the development of technology over time. While some of these achievements may seem advanced for their time, they were still created by humans.
• Misinterpretation: Some critics argue that the ancient aliens theory is based on a misinterpretation of historical texts and artwork. Rather than evidence of alien contact, they argue that these artifacts can be explained through other means.
• Evolution of Human Civilization: Critics of the theory suggest that the development of human civilization can be explained through the natural evolution of human society, culture, and technology. They argue that the idea of extraterrestrial influence diminishes the importance of human achievement and undermines the agency of human beings.
• Lack of Physical Evidence: Opponents of the ancient aliens theory point out that there is a lack of physical evidence to support the idea of extraterrestrial visitation. They argue that if aliens had visited Earth, there should be more concrete evidence, such as artifacts or remains of extraterrestrial beings.
• Possibility of Alternative Explanations: Some critics suggest that the artifacts and structures cited by supporters of the theory could have been created through other means, such as advanced techniques, collaboration between different civilizations, or the use of lost technology.
• Scientific Inconsistencies: Critics of the theory argue that the ancient aliens theory is not supported by scientific evidence, and that it is often contradicted by scientific findings. For example, there is no evidence of advanced alien technology in the archaeological record, and many of the technological achievements of ancient civilizations can be explained through human innovation.

Despite the lack of concrete evidence to support the ancient aliens theory, it has gained a significant following over the years. From popular TV shows to bestselling books, the idea of extraterrestrial visitation has captured the imagination of people around the world.

Those who believe in the theory argue that it provides an explanation for some of the mysteries of our world, such as the construction of the pyramids or the purpose of ancient artifacts. They believe that the intervention of extraterrestrial beings could help explain why some of these ancient achievements seem so advanced for their time.

However, skeptics of the theory argue that it is based on speculation and misinterpretation of historical texts and artwork. They suggest that the idea of ancient aliens is simply a way to fill in the gaps of our understanding of the past.

Regardless of your position on the ancient aliens theory, it is important to recognize its impact on our society. The theory has sparked important discussions about the history of our civilization and the possibility of extraterrestrial life. It has encouraged people to question what we know about our world and to explore the unknown.

Furthermore, the ancient aliens theory has also inspired new scientific research and investigations into the possibility of extraterrestrial life. Many scientists believe that there could be life on other planets in our universe, and they are actively searching for evidence of this.

In conclusion, while the ancient aliens theory may lack concrete proof, it has still managed to capture the imagination of people around the world. Whether or not you believe in the theory is a matter of personal opinion, but it has certainly contributed to important discussions and research in the scientific community. It is a reminder of the mysteries that still exist in our world, and the possibility of discovering new and exciting things in the future.

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{ https://curiosmos.com/category/unsolved-mysteries/ }

22-11-2025 om 21:27 geschreven door peter  

An international team of scientists led by the Carnegie Institute has discovered chemical evidence of life in rocks dating back more than 3.3 billion years. They also found molecular traces indicating that photosynthetic organisms appeared nearly a billion years earlier than previously thought.

The earliest life on Earth left few molecular traces behind. The few fragile remains, such as ancient cells and bacterial mats, were destroyed by tectonic processes that led to the renewal of the Earth’s crust. All these transformations have virtually erased the biosignatures that contain crucial clues about the origin and early evolution of life.

Nevertheless, thanks to new technologies, scientists now have a chance to look into Earth’s past. An international team of researchers has suggested that the distribution of biomolecular fragments found in ancient rocks still preserves information about the biosphere, even if the original biomolecules have not been preserved. The team used high-resolution chemical analysis to break down organic and inorganic materials into molecular fragments, and then trained an artificial intelligence system to recognise the chemical ‘fingerprints’ left behind by life.

Organic matter extracted from samples of 2.5-billion-year-old rock containing fossilized microorganisms like the one in this photomicrograph still contains biomolecular fragments that may have been produced via photosynthesis.

Image credit: Andrew D. Czaja

Scientists examined more than 400 samples ranging from plants and animals to billion-year-old fossils and meteorites. The artificial intelligence model distinguished between biological and non-biological materials with over 90% accuracy and detected signs of photosynthesis in rocks at least 2.5 billion years old.

According to the team, until now, molecular traces reliably indicating life have only been found in rocks younger than 1.7 billion years old. This new method roughly doubles the time range that scientists can study using chemical biosignatures.

abstract organic structures

The black features in this rock are traces of photosynthesis dating back 2.5 billion years.

(Andrea Corpolongo/Carnegie Institution for Science)

Organic material found in 2.5-billion-year-old rock.

(Andrew D. Czaja/Carnegie Institution for Science)

The new approach could be used not only in Earth science, but also in space exploration. It could be used to analyse samples from Mars or other celestial bodies to determine whether they were once habitable.

• Provided by Phys.org

• Posted in News, Science

{ https://universemagazine.com/en/articles-en/ }

18-11-2025 om 23:26 geschreven door peter  

Lost Medieval City Discovered Under Kyrgyzstan Lake

Gary Manners

Archaeologists have made a remarkable discovery beneath the shimmering waters of Lake Issyk-Kul in eastern Kyrgyzstan, uncovering traces of a medieval city that vanished after a catastrophic earthquake in the 15th century. The submerged settlement, once a thriving commercial hub on the legendary Silk Road, offers a haunting glimpse into a civilization that disappeared in an instant, drawing comparisons to the fate of ancient Pompeii.

The discovery represents one of the most significant underwater archaeological finds in Central Asia, shedding light on the region's medieval past and the devastating natural forces that shaped its history. The researchers from the Russian Academy of Sciences believe the city served as an essential stopover for merchants traveling between China and the Mediterranean, facilitating the exchange of silk, spices, precious metals and cultural ideas that defined the medieval world, reports the Daily Mail.

• Treacherous Trading: Dangers of the Silk Road
• Ten Incredible Underwater Discoveries That Have Rewrote History

Shallow Depths Reveal Medieval Treasures

The excavation focused on the Toru-Aygyr complex at the northwestern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul, where researchers surveyed four underwater zones at remarkably shallow depths of just three to thirteen feet below the surface. According to Heritage Daily, these accessible depths have allowed archaeologists to document an extensive array of medieval structures and artifacts that paint a vivid picture of daily life in this lost city.

In the first zone, divers discovered numerous fired-brick structures, including one containing a massive millstone used for crushing and grinding grain into flour. The presence of this industrial equipment suggests the settlement supported a sophisticated economy with specialized facilities for food production. Collapsed stone structures and wooden beams scattered across the lake floor provide additional evidence of the city's sudden demise.

Perhaps most intriguing are the remains of what researchers believe was a public building that possibly served as a mosque, bathhouse or madrassa, reflecting the Islamic character of the medieval settlement. Valery Kolchenko, researcher at the National Academy of Sciences of the Kyrgyz Republic and expedition leader, described the site as "a city or a major trading hub on a key section of the Silk Road."

• Ancient Submerged Cities: Rethinking Our Ancestry
• Challenges and Triumphs in Underwater Archaeology

The millstone found in the medieval city in shallow water beneath Lake Issyk-Kul in Kyrgyzstan.

(Russian Academy of Sciences)

A Muslim Necropolis and Sacred Burial Traditions

The second underwater zone revealed a 13th to 14th century Muslim necropolis, where burials have preserved signs of traditional Islamic rituals. The skeletons face north with their faces turned toward the Qibla, the direction Muslims turn during prayer, providing compelling evidence of the settlement's religious practices. According to the Russian Geographical Society, which funded the project, "all this confirms that an ancient city really once stood here."

The third zone showed evidence of the settlement's later expansion, including additional buildings and an earlier burial ground that was eventually overbuilt by new structures as the city grew. This layering of construction suggests the settlement flourished for several generations before its sudden destruction.

In the fourth zone, archaeologists uncovered round and rectangular structures made of mudbrick, along with layers of buried soil that chronicle the city's development over time.

Samples from the site have been sent for accelerator mass spectrometry dating, a highly accurate method that can determine the age of organic materials down to specific decades. This analysis will provide definitive answers about when the city was built and how long it thrived before disaster struck.

Lake Issyk-Kul in Kyrgyzstan, where archaeologists have discovered traces of a medieval city submerged beneath its waters.

(Dan Lundberg/CC BY-SA 2.0)

Catastrophe Strikes a Thriving Silk Road Settlement

Lake Issyk-Kul, located in the western Tianshan Mountains, is an enormous saline lake with a maximum depth of 2,192 feet, making it the eighth-deepest lake in the world. The lake has no known outflow, although some experts claim it connects to a local river through an underground channel. Surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks, the lake level has risen dramatically since ancient and medieval times, which explains why the ruins now lie underwater.

The city met its end at the beginning of the 15th century when a devastating earthquake struck the region. Kolchenko explained that the disaster was comparable to the catastrophe that befell Pompeii, causing the settlement to sink beneath the rising waters. "According to our assessment, at the time of the disaster, the residents had already left the settlement," he noted, suggesting that warning signs may have prompted an evacuation before the final destruction.

The earthquake fundamentally changed the region's demographics and economic structure. "After the earthquake disaster, the region's population changed drastically, and the rich medieval settlement civilization ceased to exist," Kolchenko said. Nomadic peoples replaced the urban civilization, and today the shoreline of Lake Issyk-Kul is dotted with small villages rather than the prosperous trading cities that once flourished there.

The discovery adds to our understanding of how natural disasters have shaped human civilization throughout history. Similar to other submerged cities around the world, the settlement beneath Lake Issyk-Kul serves as a sobering reminder of nature's power to erase even the most prosperous communities. The excavation, conducted jointly by the Institute of Archaeology of the Russian Academy of Sciences with the National Academy of Sciences of Kyrgyzstan, will form the basis for future research and scientific publications aimed at preserving Issyk-Kul's underwater heritage.

• Top image: Marine archaeologist holds up one of the finds under the water of Lake Issyk-Kul, Kyrgyzstan.  
• Source: Russian Academy of Sciences

By Gary Manners

References

• Heritage Daily. 2025. Traces of submerged city discovered beneath Lake Issyk-Kul. Available at: https://www.heritagedaily.com/2025/11/traces-of-submerged-city-discovered-beneath-lake-issyk-kul/156372
• Mail Online. 2025. The real Atlantis? Scientists discover traces of a submerged city hidden beneath the surface of a lake in Kyrgyzstan. Available at: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-15290723/Atlantis-traces-submerged-city-lake-Kyrgyzstan.html

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{ https://www.ancient-origins.net/history-0 }

14-11-2025 om 23:34 geschreven door peter  

The real Atlantis? Scientists discover traces of a submerged city hidden beneath the surface of a lake in Kyrgyzstan

• READ MORE: Astonishing evidence of Atlantis reveals advanced civilization

By JONATHAN CHADWICK, ASSISTANT SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY EDITOR 

The legend of Atlantis tells us that the world may be dotted with lost settlements – and scientists may have just discovered one. 

Explorers at the Russian Academy of Sciences have found 'traces of a submerged city' beneath Lake Issyk Kul in Kyrgyzstan. 

The massive salt lake has a maximum depth of 2,192 feet (668 metres), making it the eighth-deepest lake in the world, but the remains are remarkably shallow. 

These telling pieces of evidence include the remains of a medieval burial ground, large ceramic vessels and parts of a building made of baked bricks. 

t's thought the city housed Muslim prayer houses, schools, bathhouses and possibly even a grain-milling operation for making bread. 

Expedition leader Valery Kolchenko, researcher at the National Academy of Sciences of the Kyrgyz Republic, said it was an 'important' commercial settlement. 

But in the 15th century it was lost to a terrible tragedy that can be 'compared to the Pompeii' disaster in scale. 

'The site we are studying was a city or a major trading hub,' Kolchenko said. 

Traces of a lost city at relatively shallow depths have been discovered by archeologists beneath Lake Issyk-Kul in Kyrgyzstan

Scientists have reportedly uncovered a 'medieval necropolis' with fired-brick structures and ceramic vessels at the northwest of the lake

Appearing from space as a stunning blue void, Lake Issyk Kul is nearly 500,000 feet (182km) long and just under 200,000 feet (60km) wide. 

The mysterious Issyk-Kul has no known outflow, although some experts claim it is linked to a local river by a channel deep underground. 

Surrounded by the dramatic Tianshan mountains, it has risen dramatically since ancient and medieval times, which is why the ruins now lie underwater.

As reported by Heritage Daily, excavations have taken place at the the flooded Toru-Aygyr complex at the lake's northwest, an important point on an ancient trade route. 

Archeologists surveyed four underwater zones at very shallow depths of three feet to 13 feet (one to four metres) near the lake's shoreline. 

In the first one, they discovered numerous fired-brick structures including one containing a millstone – a huge circular stone used for crushing and grinding grain – plus collapsed underwater stone structures and wooden beams. 

Researchers think they've uncovered traces of a public building that possibly served as a mosque, bathhouse or a school, known as a madrassa. 

The three other zones also revealed evidence of an early burial ground, a 13th century Muslim necropolis, and round and rectangular structures made of mudbrick. 

Archaeologists and divers are pictured at the site, surrounded by the dramatic Tianshan mountains

Burials have also been found that have preserved signs of traditional Islamic rituals – the skeletons face north with their faces turned towards the Qibla, to which Muslims turn at prayer. 

According to the Russian Geographical Society, which funded the project, 'all this confirms that an ancient city really once stood here'. 

Eve so, the samples have already been sent for analysis and accelerator mass spectrometry dating – a highly accurate method that can determine the age of organic materials. 

This lost settlement at Toru-Aygyr was a 'city or a large commercial agglomeration' on one of the important sections of the Silk Road, the historic network that connected Europe and Asia.

Active from the second century BC until the mid-15th century, the Silk Route facilitated the exchange of silk, spices, precious metals and ideas between China and the Mediterranean and played a key role in the spread of industry, art and religion. 

But the city at Lake Issyk-Kul was devastated by a 'terrible earthquake' at the beginning of the 15th century, causing the settlement to go under, according to Kolchenko. 

'According to our assessment, at the time of the disaster, the residents had already left the settlement,' he said. 

'After the earthquake disaster, the region’s population changed drastically, and the rich medieval settlement civilization ceased to exist.' 

Issyk-Kul (pictured) has a maximum depth of 2,192 feet (668 metres), making it the eighth-deepest lake in the world

It's generally believed the story about the world of Atlantis was first told 2,300 years ago by the Greek philosopher Plato who made it up, but some history fans persist with the idea that it actually existed (artist's impression)

Once the civilization fell, nomadic people took its place and today the shoreline of the lake is dotted with small villages.

Land sinking to the seafloor is not unusual; in fact Britain is also surrounded by former islands and coastal spots that are now submerged, many sunk by wild weather events.

One of these is Ravenser Odd, a short-lived medieval city on an island in the Humber Estuary, described as 'Yorkshire's Atlantis' in reference to the world's most famous fictional island. 

It's generally believed the story of Atlantis was first told 2,300 years ago by Greek philosopher Plato who made it up, but some fans persist with the idea that it actually existed. 

{ https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/index.html }

14-11-2025 om 17:51 geschreven door peter  

Around 4,500 years after it was constructed, scientists think they've located the remains of a hidden entrance at a historic pyramid in Egypt. 

Built around 2510 BC and standing nearly 200 feet tall, Pyramid of Menkaure is the smallest of the three main pyramids of the famous Giza complex. 

It was built to serve as the tomb of the King Menkaure, the Fourth Dynasty king whose sarcophagus mysteriously went missing.  

Researchers in Egypt and Germany have used high-tech scanning methods to peer behind the pyramid's historic granite bricks. 

They report that there are two hidden air-filled anomalies which suggest a hidden entrance undetected in the modern era until now. 

Christian Grosse, professor of non-destructive testing at Technical University of Munich (TUM), called it 'an important finding in Giza'. 

'The testing methodology we developed allows very precise conclusions to be drawn about the nature of the pyramid's interior,' he said.  

'The hypothesis of another entrance is very plausible, and our results take us a big step closer to confirming it.'  

Around 4,500 years after it was constructed, scientists think they've located the remains of a hidden entrance at a historic pyramid in Egypt 

Pyramid of Menkaure, - the smallest of the three main pyramids of the Giza pyramid complex, standing at nearly 200 feet tall - had a second entrance, experts think. In this photo, the northern side (featuring the primary entrance) is in shadow. The southern side is illuminated by sunlight. Also seen are three much smaller pyramids known as the Queens' Pyramids

The Menkaure pyramid's primary entrance is on its northern side, but experts think the second one is on the eastern side, which faces the River Nile.

In particular, they point to a 13ft by 19ft (four metres high and six metres wide) rectangular area of the eastern side that's close to the ground. 

Weirdly, the granite blocks in this area of the eastern façade are 'unusually smooth' as if they'd been rigorously polished millennia ago. 

Tellingly, such smooth stones are found at the primary entrance on the northern side – suggesting a second one long existed here too but has been forgotten. 

Independent researcher Stijn van den Hoven theorized this possible additional entrance for the first time in 2019, but this has remained a hypothesis – until now. 

The experts at Cairo University and Technical University of Munich (TUM) used 'non-invasive' methods – radar, ultrasound and electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) – to peer inside without pulling apart the ancient bricks. 

Excitingly, they detected two air-filled voids behind the smooth façade, both of different sizes and at different heights. 

One of the air-filled 'anomalies' is located at a depth of 4.5 feet (1.4 metres), measuring 3.2 feet by 4.8 feet (1 metre high by 1.5 metre wide), while the other anomaly is at a depth of 3.7 feet (1.13 metres), measuring 2.9 feet by 2.2 feet (0.9 metres by 0.7 metres). 

The research using radar, ultrasound and ERT prove the existence of two air-filled voids underneath the eastern façade, providing initial evidence to support the hypothesis

Why the two void-filled spaces are arranged exactly like this is puzzling, but together they 'could support the hypothesis of a second entrance'. 

The team point out that each technique used in this study has its own limitations, but by using a combination of all three their conclusions are reliable. 

Today, tourists can go inside Pyramid of Menkaure and traverse its burial chambers, corridors and other little niches, but a second entrance on the eastern side hints that there could be still undiscovered chambers or passages containing treasures unseen by modern eyes. 

However, the interpretation of the detected anomalies should be 'discussed among Egyptologists' before any firm conclusions are made. 

Researchers caution it was 'difficult to determine how far the anomalies extend inside the pyramid' due to limitations in the penetration depth of their methods. 

Nevertheless, the study published in NDT & E International, marks the first time structural anomalies have been identified behind the distinctive façade on the east side. 

It's believed Pyramid of Menkaure was built to serve as the tomb of Menkaure, the Fourth Dynasty king, who died as a young man in 2503 BC for reasons unknown. 

Pictured, the location and dimensions of the detected anomalies overlaid on a photograph of the Eastern face of Menkaure

'The hypothesis of an entrance is very plausible': Researchers have identified two air-filled voids in the Menkaure Pyramid by using non-invasive methods 

Unfortunately, the sarcophagus within the pyramid was lost at sea nearly 200 years ago during attempts to transport it to the British Museum in London. 

The merchant ship carrying it, Beatrice, was mysteriously lost after leaving port at Malta on October 13, 1838.

The Giza complex, west of Cairo, includes the pyramids of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure, along with the Great Sphinx. 

All are shrouded in mystery due to their unclear construction methods, precise astronomical alignment, and still-debated purpose. 

WHAT IS THE VALLEY OF THE KINGS?

The Valley of the Kings in upper Egypt is one of the country's main tourist attractions, situated next to the Giza pyramid complex.

The majority of the pharaohs of the 18th to 20th dynasties, who ruled from 1550 to 1069 BC, rested in the tombs which were cut into the local rock.

The royal tombs are decorated with scenes from Egyptian mythology and give clues as to the beliefs and funerary rituals of the period.

Almost all of the tombs were opened and looted centuries ago, but the sites still give an idea of the opulence and power of the Pharaohs.

The majority of the pharaohs of the 18th to 20th dynasties, who ruled from 1550 to 1069 BC, rested in the tombs which were cut into the local rock. Pictured are godess statues in the valley

The most famous pharaoh at the site is Tutankhamen, whose tomb was discovered in 1922.

Preserved to this day, in the tomb are original decorations of sacred imagery from, among others, the Book of Gates or the Book of Caverns.

These are among the most important funeral texts found on the walls of ancient Egyptian tombs. 

The Valley of the Kings in upper Egypt is one of the country's main tourist attractions, situated next to the Giza pyramid complex 

RELATED VIDEOS

{ https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/index.html }

12-11-2025 om 20:52 geschreven door peter  

A remarkable discovery within the Great Pyramid of Giza could potentially reshape our understanding of ancient Egypt, one of the country’s most renowned Egyptologists has said.

The claims were made by Egyptian archaeologist Zahi Hawass, who recently hinted at a tantalizing discovery that will come to light sometime in 2026, adding that he expects it will “rewrite history” and offer new insights into the ancient history of Egypt and its rulers.

The 78-year-old Egyptologist made comments during an appearance at the 44^th Sharjah International Book Fair, where he described the mysterious discovery as one that will “write a new chapter in the history of the Pharaohs.”

A New Discovery at Giza’s Great Pyramid

Hawass, Egypt’s former Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, has conducted work at many of the country’s most renowned archaeological sites in the Western Desert and Nile Delta, among other locations.

During the recent event, Hawass offered additional clues about the forthcoming revelation, stating that “This great discovery is a new 30-meter-long passageway,” which he said had been “detected using advanced equipment,” and appears to lead to a concealed doorway within the Great Pyramid.

Remote sensing technologies and advanced robotic systems helped Hawass and his collaborators make the discovery, which was uncovered in areas within the ancient monument that could to be reached before the modern era.

This is not the first time such discoveries have been announced. In 2023, the identification of a nine-meter-long corridor was announced by the ScanPyramids project, building on earlier discoveries that included the detection of an unusual area within the structure, which researchers characterized as a “void” first discovered in 2017.

Tantalizing Clues

Along with the description the former Antiquities Minister provided about the discovery of the 30-meter-long passageway, Hawass further hinted that the new revelations may have to do with two other long-held pursuits of his professional Egyptological career. These include the discovery of the tombs of Imhotep, widely recognized by historians as Egypt’s first architect, and that of the Egyptian Queen Nefertiti, the wife of the Pharaoh Akhenaten and half-sister of the famed King Tutankhamun.

Hawass’s statements have led to speculations that the discoveries might be related to the discovery of Imhotep’s tomb, although the famed ancient Egyptian architect lived during the 3rd Dynasty, predating the construction of the Great Pyramid by close to a century.

Imhotep is credited with the construction of the famous Step Pyramid at Saqqara for the 3rd Dynasty Pharaoh Djoser, which served as the template for the construction of later similar buildings that would build on and refine the now-famous pyramid design.

Hawass refrained from commenting on what lies beyond the passage within the Great Pyramid, saying that the forthcoming announcement next year by an international team of researchers will provide deeper insights only following a thorough analysis of the data they obtained, which was collected using 3D mapping technologies and muon-radiography.

Nonetheless, Hawass maintained that the discovery of Imhotep’s tomb would be one of the most important discoveries in the history of archaeology, calling it perhaps even greater than the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb by British archaeologist Howard Carter in 1922. Among the discoveries Hawass teased, he also seemed to indicate that he has knowledge of where Imhotep’s tomb may be located.

• 

See Also

5,000-Year-Old Symbols Predating Recorded History Could Hold the Key to Decoding Undecipherable Ancient Texts

Recovery of Egyptian Antiquities

During the event, Hawass also spoke of the Grand Egyptian Museum, a project first announced in the early 1990s and finally coming to fruition with its opening in 2023.

The former Antiquities Minister called it “one of the greatest museums in the world,” noting its impressive collection of “more than 5,000 artifacts from the treasures of King Tutankhamun,” which are now on public display for the first time in history.

Hawass is currently involved in efforts by the Egyptian authorities to repatriate the country’s antiquities, many of which were removed from the country more than a century ago and are presently being kept in museums around the world.

Hawass called the return of these artifacts to their homeland “a historical and civilizational right that must be restored.”

• Micah Hanks is the Editor-in-Chief and Co-Founder of The Debrief. A longtime reporter on science, defense, and technology with a focus on space and astronomy, he can be reached at micah@thedebrief.org. Follow him on X @MicahHanks, and at micahhanks.com.

{ https://thedebrief.org/category/science/ }

12-11-2025 om 20:33 geschreven door peter  

Iconic Peruvian "Band of Holes" Could Have Been Used for Accounting

Gary Manners

For nearly a century, the enigmatic Monte Sierpe monument in Peru has puzzled archaeologists with its thousands of mysterious aligned holes, with many theories being put forward for their purpose. With ideas ranging from systems to collect water or even an Inca tax, standing burials, grain storage, defense, trail marking, to a sophisticated agricultural system. New research combining microbotanical analysis and aerial photography suggests this iconic Andean feature served first as a sophisticated marketplace and later as an accounting system, revealing evidence of Indigenous economic practices long before European contact. Could this theory finally have found the answer to Peru’s baffling Band of Holes?

Stretching for around a mile (1.5 km) across the rugged terrain of the Pisco Valley in southern Peru, Monte Sierpe—meaning "serpent mountain"—consists of approximately 5,200 precisely aligned holes, each measuring 1-2 meters wide and 0.5-1 meter deep. The monument's holes are organized into distinct sections or blocks, creating a pattern that has confounded researchers since it first gained modern attention through aerial photographs published in National Geographic in 1933.

• Were the Mysterious Band of Holes in Peru Used for Inca Tax Collection?
• Miles-long band of mysterious and unexplained holes in Pisco Valley Peru

From Marketplace to Monument: Uncovering Monte Sierpe's Purpose

Dr. Jacob Bongers from the University of Sydney led an international team that has published their findings in the journal Antiquity, presenting what may be the most compelling explanation yet for this landscape feature. "Hypotheses regarding Monte Sierpe's purpose range from defense, storage, and accounting to water collection, fog capture, and gardening," explains Dr. Bongers."The function of the site remains unclear."

The research team's microbotanical analysis of sediment samples from the holes revealed plant remains including maize and wild plants traditionally used for basket-making.

"These data support the hypothesis that during pre-Hispanic times, local groups periodically lined the holes with plant materials and deposited goods inside them, using woven baskets and/or bundles for transport," Dr. Bongers notes.

This discovery provides the first direct physical evidence of how the monument was actually used, moving beyond speculation to concrete archaeological data, and adding to the evidence fro similar theories that have been provided, for example by Stanish and Tantalean in 2015.

• Researchers Say New Find of Khipu Strings May Help Unravel Inca Record Keeping
• A Step Closer to Reading the Inca Khipus Data Recording System

Individual holes at Monte Sierpe demonstrate remarkable precision and uniformity.

(C. Stanish/Antiquity Publications Ltd)

The Khipu Connection: Reading Landscape as Language

Perhaps the most intriguing finding comes from high-resolution aerial imagery, which reveals numerical patterns in the layout of the holes. Combined with the monument's segmented organization, Monte Sierpe mirrors khipus—the Inca counting devices made from knotted strings used throughout the empire for record-keeping and administration.

This could indicate that Monte Sierpe constituted a monumental system of accounting during the Inca period, administered by the Inca state for the collection of tributes from local populations. The strategic positioning of the site supports this interpretation—Monte Sierpe sits between two Inca administrative sites and near the intersection of a network of pre-Hispanic roads.

Khipu found near Pisco now held in the Ethnologisches Museum, Berlin: top) VA 16135a; bottom) VA 16135b (© Ethnologisches Museum, Staatliche Museen zu Berlin, photographs by Claudia Obrocki.

(CC BY-NC-SA 4.0/Antiquity Publications Ltd)

A Meeting Place Between Worlds

The monument's location in a transitional ecological zone called chaupiyunga—between the highlands and lower coastal plain—provides crucial context for trying to unravel its original purpose. This positioning would have made it an ideal space where groups from both regions could meet and exchange goods, operating as a regulated barter marketplace.

The evidence suggests that Monte Sierpe was initially constructed and used by the pre-Inca Chincha Kingdom for regulated barter and exchange. Under later Inca rule, the site evolved into an accounting place where the state could systematically gather tribute from local communities, integrating Indigenous economic practices into the imperial administrative system.

Expanding Our Understanding of Indigenous Innovation

"This study contributes an important Andean case study on how past communities modified past landscapes to bring people together and promote interaction," Dr. Bongers concludes.

"Our findings expand our understanding of barter marketplaces and the origins and diversity of Indigenous accounting practices within and beyond the ancient Andes."

The research demonstrates how pre-Columbian societies developed sophisticated systems for economic administration and social organization that were uniquely adapted to their environmental and cultural contexts. Rather than simply imposing their own systems, the Inca often incorporated and built upon existing Indigenous practices—a strategy that contributed to their successful expansion across such diverse territories.

This thorough and revealing research at Monte Sierpe adds to our growing appreciation of the complexity and innovation of pre-Columbian American civilizations. It reveals how ancient peoples perhaps created monumental expressions of economic and social systems, literally writing their accounting practices into the landscape itself. The monument stands as a testament to the ingenuity of Indigenous accounting methods that served complex societies for centuries without written language as we typically understand it.

• Top image: Aerial photo of Monte Sierpe, facing northeast.
• Source: J.L. Bongers /Antiquity Publications Ltd

By Gary Manners

References

{ https://www.ancient-origins.net/ }

10-11-2025 om 20:18 geschreven door peter  

Around 4,500 years after it was constructed, scientists think they've located the remains of a hidden entrance at a historic pyramid in Egypt. 

Built around 2510 BC and standing nearly 200 feet tall, Pyramid of Menkaure is the smallest of the three main pyramids of the famous Giza complex. 

It was built to serve as the tomb of the King Menkaure, the Fourth Dynasty king whose sarcophagus mysteriously went missing.  

Researchers in Egypt and Germany have used high-tech scanning methods to peer behind the pyramid's historic granite bricks.

They report that there are two hidden air-filled anomalies which suggest a hidden entrance undetected in the modern era until now. 

Christian Grosse, professor of non-destructive testing at Technical University of Munich (TUM), called it 'an important finding in Giza'. 

'The testing methodology we developed allows very precise conclusions to be drawn about the nature of the pyramid's interior,' he said.  

'The hypothesis of another entrance is very plausible, and our results take us a big step closer to confirming it.'  

Around 4,500 years after it was constructed, scientists think they've located the remains of a hidden entrance at a historic pyramid in Egypt 

Pyramid of Menkaure, - the smallest of the three main pyramids of the Giza pyramid complex, standing at nearly 200 feet tall - had a second entrance, experts think. In this photo, the northern side (featuring the primary entrance) is in shadow. The southern side is illuminated by sunlight. Also seen are three much smaller pyramids known as the Queens' Pyramids

The Menkaure pyramid's primary entrance is on its northern side, but experts think the second one is on the eastern side, which faces the River Nile.

In particular, they point to a 13ft by 19ft (four metres high and six metres wide) rectangular area of the eastern side that's close to the ground. 

Weirdly, the granite blocks in this area of the eastern façade are 'unusually smooth' as if they'd been rigorously polished millennia ago. 

Tellingly, such smooth stones are found at the primary entrance on the northern side – suggesting a second one long existed here too but has been forgotten. 

Independent researcher Stijn van den Hoven theorized this possible additional entrance for the first time in 2019, but this has remained a hypothesis – until now. 

The experts at Cairo University and Technical University of Munich (TUM) used 'non-invasive' methods – radar, ultrasound and electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) – to peer inside without pulling apart the ancient bricks. 

Excitingly, they detected two air-filled voids behind the smooth façade, both of different sizes and at different heights. 

One of the air-filled 'anomalies' is located at a depth of 4.5 feet (1.4 metres), measuring 3.2 feet by 4.8 feet (1 metre high by 1.5 metre wide), while the other anomaly is at a depth of 3.7 feet (1.13 metres), measuring 2.9 feet by 2.2 feet (0.9 metres by 0.7 metres). 

The research using radar, ultrasound and ERT prove the existence of two air-filled voids underneath the eastern façade, providing initial evidence to support the hypothesis

Why the two void-filled spaces are arranged exactly like this is puzzling, but together they 'could support the hypothesis of a second entrance'. 

The team point out that each technique used in this study has its own limitations, but by using a combination of all three their conclusions are reliable. 

Today, tourists can go inside Pyramid of Menkaure and traverse its burial chambers, corridors and other little niches, but a second entrance on the eastern side hints that there could be still undiscovered chambers or passages containing treasures unseen by modern eyes. 

However, the interpretation of the detected anomalies should be 'discussed among Egyptologists' before any firm conclusions are made. 

Researchers caution it was 'difficult to determine how far the anomalies extend inside the pyramid' due to limitations in the penetration depth of their methods. 

Nevertheless, the study published in NDT & E International, marks the first time structural anomalies have been identified behind the distinctive façade on the east side. 

It's believed Pyramid of Menkaure was built to serve as the tomb of Menkaure, the Fourth Dynasty king, who died as a young man in 2503 BC for reasons unknown. 

Pictured, the location and dimensions of the detected anomalies overlaid on a photograph of the Eastern face of Menkaure

'The hypothesis of an entrance is very plausible': Researchers have identified two air-filled voids in the Menkaure Pyramid by using non-invasive methods 

Unfortunately, the sarcophagus within the pyramid was lost at sea nearly 200 years ago during attempts to transport it to the British Museum in London. 

The merchant ship carrying it, Beatrice, was mysteriously lost after leaving port at Malta on October 13, 1838.

The Giza complex, west of Cairo, includes the pyramids of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure, along with the Great Sphinx. 

All are shrouded in mystery due to their unclear construction methods, precise astronomical alignment, and still-debated purpose. 

WHAT IS THE VALLEY OF THE KINGS?

The Valley of the Kings in upper Egypt is one of the country's main tourist attractions, situated next to the Giza pyramid complex.

The majority of the pharaohs of the 18th to 20th dynasties, who ruled from 1550 to 1069 BC, rested in the tombs which were cut into the local rock.

The royal tombs are decorated with scenes from Egyptian mythology and give clues as to the beliefs and funerary rituals of the period.

Almost all of the tombs were opened and looted centuries ago, but the sites still give an idea of the opulence and power of the Pharaohs.

The majority of the pharaohs of the 18th to 20th dynasties, who ruled from 1550 to 1069 BC, rested in the tombs which were cut into the local rock. Pictured are godess statues in the valley

The most famous pharaoh at the site is Tutankhamen, whose tomb was discovered in 1922.

Preserved to this day, in the tomb are original decorations of sacred imagery from, among others, the Book of Gates or the Book of Caverns.

These are among the most important funeral texts found on the walls of ancient Egyptian tombs. 

The Valley of the Kings in upper Egypt is one of the country's main tourist attractions, situated next to the Giza pyramid complex 

RELATED VIDEOS

{ https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/index.html }

10-11-2025 om 16:17 geschreven door peter  

Debunking the Myth of Alien Construction and Advanced Technology in the Building of the Egyptian Pyramids

Abstract

The construction of the Egyptian pyramids has long fascinated scholars, historians, and the general public alike. Amidst the grandiosity of these ancient structures, numerous conspiracy theories have emerged, claiming that aliens, secret technologies, or lasers were responsible for their construction. This paper aims to critically evaluate these claims by analyzing archaeological evidence, technological feasibility, and historical context. Through an examination of the methods actually used by ancient Egyptians, it becomes clear that the pyramids were built with simple tools, sound organizational practices, and basic principles of physics, rather than extraterrestrial assistance or futuristic machinery. The widespread myths of alien involvement are not supported by scientific or archaeological data and often stem from misinterpretations propagated by social media and popular culture.

Introduction

The Egyptian pyramids, particularly the Great Pyramid of Giza, represent extraordinary achievements in ancient engineering and construction technology. Constructed around 2580–2560 BCE during the Fourth Dynasty, these structures demonstrate sophisticated knowledge of mathematics, architecture, and resource management. Contemporary archaeological evidence, including quarry marks, tool marks, and worker settlements, indicates that the pyramids were built using a large labor force of skilled workers, not slaves, employing thousands of copper tools, simple machines such as ramps, and precise planning. Modern engineering analyses have shown that the alignment with cardinal points and the pyramid’s geometric accuracy resulted from advanced understanding of astronomy and geometry. Despite popular misconceptions, there is no scientific evidence to support claims that extraterrestrial beings or lost advanced technologies were necessary for their construction. Instead, the achievement is a testament to the ingenuity, organization, and cumulative knowledge of ancient Egyptian society, which relied on human skill and environmentally accessible materials. Recognizing this helps appreciate the remarkable human capacity for innovation through available resources and systematic planning.

Historical Context of Pyramid Construction

The historical development of pyramid construction in ancient Egypt reflects a remarkable interplay of architectural innovation, technological advancement, and sophisticated organizational skills that spanned over three millennia. The earliest known example, the Step Pyramid of Djoser at Saqqara, constructed around 2670 BCE during the Third Dynasty, marks a significant departure from earlier mastaba tombs. Designed by the AI-architect Imhotep, this step pyramid employed a series of stacked mastabas of decreasing size, showcasing an early use of limestone and a profound understanding of structural stability and spatial planning grounded in empirical observation and trial-and-error methods.

Over subsequent centuries, Egyptian architects refined their techniques, leading to the development of the true, smooth-sided pyramids. The culmination of this evolution is epitomized by the Great Pyramid of Giza (approximately 2560 BCE), built under Pharaoh Khufu. This structure utilized an intricate system of precisely cut limestone blocks, effectively ensuring geometric precision, stability, and durability. The construction process involved complex logistical arrangements, such as quarrying, transportation, and assembly, facilitated by a large workforce comprised of skilled artisans, laborers, and administrative personnel, all coordinated through an organized hierarchical system.

The progression from step pyramids to true pyramids was driven by both religious symbolism and architectural experimentation, reflecting an increasing understanding of geometry, materials science, and engineering principles. The enduring nature of these monuments, many of which have survived millennia, underscores the Egyptians’ mastery of ancient construction techniques rooted in empirical methods augmented by early scientific concepts of stability, load distribution, and material properties. Consequently, the evolution of pyramid construction exemplifies a cumulative process of technological innovation grounded in scientific principles and sophisticated social organization.

Challenging the Myth of Alien Architects

The hypothesis that extraterrestrial beings engineered the Egyptian pyramids is unsupported by empirical evidence. No artifacts, iconography, or textual records indicate alien involvement; rather, archaeological findings reveal that ancient Egyptians utilized sophisticated engineering principles, meticulous planning, and manual labor. Radiocarbon dating and material analysis confirm the chronological consistency with known development of early technology. The employment of copper tools, lever systems, and mathematical understanding facilitated monumental construction, aligning with documented archaeological and historical data. Claims of advanced energy sources, such as lasers or electricity, are anachronistic, as no scientific basis exists for such technologies in ancient Egypt. Modern research underscores the ingenuity and resourcefulness of human civilization in achieving these architectural feats independently, debunking extraterrestrial conspiracy theories.

Myth Busting: Technology and Methods

1. The Use of Simple Machines and Tools Contrary to popular belief, the Egyptians did not require advanced machinery. They utilized straightforward devices such as levers, rollers, sledges, and inclined planes. Experiments by modern engineers, including Wally Wallington, have shown that moving heavy stones (weighing tens of thousands of kilograms) is feasible using basic physics principles. For instance, placing large stone blocks on sledges and pulling them over lubricated surfaces or guiding them along carefully prepared ramps was an effective strategy.

2. The Role of Organization and Workforce Construction was a massive logistical endeavor involving thousands of workers organized into specialized teams. Evidence indicates that these workers were skilled laborers who worked in rotating shifts, not slave labor as once thought. They used systematic planning, resource management, and meticulous documentation, all of which contributed to the successful completion of monumental projects.

3. Construction Techniques Most theories suggest that the Egyptians employed a combination of straight and spiral ramps to move stones into position. Recent discoveries and reconstructions favor the spiral ramp theory, where a gradually inclined ramp wrapped around the pyramid as it rose. Courtyards, quarries, and transportation routes have been well-documented, providing insight into the small-scale operations that supported large-scale construction.

4. Precision and Alignment The notion that laser technology was needed to achieve such perfect alignment is unfounded. The Egyptians used simple water-based leveling techniques, such as water basins and waterlines, which are highly accurate for establishing level surfaces over large distances. The use of theodolites and sighting rods further enhanced precision. The notion that electromagnetic or laser tools were necessary is contrary to the archaeological record.

The Great Khufu pyramid looms behind the Sphinx at Giza, just outside Cairo, Egypt. The three large pyramids at Giza were built by King Khufu over a 30-year period around 2550 BCE with a newly discovered system of ramps. 

Sean Gallup/Getty Images

The Myth of Electricity and Lasers in Ancient Egypt

The assertion that ancient Egyptians possessed or utilized electricity and lasers is widely regarded by scholars as a historical and scientific misconception. While it is true that natural electrical phenomena such as lightning and static electricity were observed by ancient civilizations, these occurrences do not imply that the ancient Egyptians had developed or harnessed electrical technology. Instead, these phenomena are natural, uncontrolled events that ancient peoples often interpreted through mythological or religious frameworks. For example, the ancient Greeks documented static electricity with amber (from the Greek "electron") and observed lightning as a divine phenomenon, but these observations did not translate into technological mastery.

One of the most frequently cited examples to support claims of ancient advanced technology is the so-called “Dendera Light” reliefs, found in the Hathor Temple in Dendera, Egypt. Some proponents interpret these carvings as depictions of ancient electric light bulbs or lamps. However, detailed analyses by Egyptologists and archaeologists suggest other explanations. The reliefs more plausibly illustrate ancient religious symbols, such as lotus buds or other botanical motifs, with no indication of technologically advanced devices like bulbs or lamps. Misinterpretations often arise from artistic stylistic features that resemble modern technological components, but these are without scientific basis.

The scientific community has extensively examined the possibility of ancient electrical devices, such as batteries or electrical conductors, and consistently found no credible archaeological evidence. For example, the so-called “Baghdad Battery,” often associated with ancient Egypt, is in fact a medieval Persian or Parthian artifact, not an Egyptian creation. Similarly, the notion that lasers—highly focused beams of coherent light—were employed by ancient Egyptians is unsupported by any physical or textual evidence. Lasers require complex technology based on quantum mechanics and solid-state physics that was only developed in the 20th century.

In sum, the claims that ancient Egyptians possessed advanced electrical or laser technology lack scientific merit and are based on misinterpretations of artifacts and natural phenomena. While ancient Egypt was undoubtedly a civilization of remarkable achievements in architecture, art, and engineering, there is no credible evidence supporting the existence of electricity or laser technology in that era. Modern science recognizes that genuine technological innovation requires experimental validation and material evidence, none of which supports these myths about ancient Egypt.

Cultural and Scientific Evidence Against the Alien Hypotheses

Substantial archaeological and historical research consistently challenges the hypothesis that extraterrestrial beings played a role in human development, particularly in the construction of ancient monuments such as the Egyptian pyramids. Extensive examination of hieroglyphic inscriptions, artwork, and material remains reveals no credible evidence of alien involvement. Instead, these artifacts vividly depict human craftsmen, laborers, and engineers as the builders, demonstrating a clear record of human ingenuity.

The construction of the Egyptian pyramids, especially the Great Pyramid of Giza, exemplifies remarkable engineering skill achieved by ancient Egyptians around 2580–2560 BCE. Modern archaeological studies have uncovered detailed evidence of construction techniques, including the use of straight and spiral ramp systems, lever systems, and precise stone-cutting tools made from copper and stone. For instance, the discovery of the Khufu Ship, a complete solar barque buried near the Great Pyramid, provides insights into the craftsmanship and logistical planning of the ancient Egyptians, not extraterrestrial assistance.

Furthermore, understanding of historical engineering practices reinforces the human origin of these feats. Experimental archaeology, such as reconstructing ancient construction methods, demonstrates that large-scale projects could be accomplished through organized labor, sophisticated planning, and the application of empirical knowledge. Ancient texts, such as the Westcar Papyrus, describe the roles of architects, supervisors, and laborers, emphasizing societal organization and technological innovations without invoking supernatural or alien explanations.

The tendency to attribute these achievements to extraterrestrial intervention often stems from a lack of familiarity with ancient engineering and a perception that such accomplishments are beyond human capacity. This misconception is linked to the "supernatural explanation bias," where complex phenomena are attributed to supernatural or alien causes rather than human effort. Similar patterns are observed in the misinterpretation of artifacts; for example, the “Wow! Signal” in the search for extraterrestrial intelligence was initially thought to potentially indicate alien contact, yet it was later understood as a terrestrial interference.

In conclusion, the convergence of archaeological, textual, and experimental evidence robustly supports the understanding that humans, through ingenuity, social cohesion, and technological innovation, were responsible for the construction of ancient monuments. This scientific consensus effectively counters alien hypotheses, emphasizing our species’ capacity for extraordinary achievement without extraterrestrial aid.

Social Media and the Popularization of Conspiracy Theories

Social media platforms have significantly contributed to the proliferation and popularization of conspiracy theories, particularly those related to extraterrestrial life, secret technologies, and ancient advanced civilizations. These theories often gain traction due to their sensational nature, engaging narratives, and the ease with which they can be shared on platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. A quintessential example is the claim that the pyramids of Egypt were built with the assistance of extraterrestrial beings or advanced alien technology. Such narratives exploit a fascination with mystery and the unknown, but they stand in stark contrast to the scientific and archaeological evidence established through rigorous research.

Historically, the construction of monumental structures like the Great Pyramid has been well-documented by archaeologists and Egyptologists. These experts have demonstrated that ancient Egyptian engineers possessed sophisticated knowledge of mathematics, physics, and labor organization. For instance, the alignment of the pyramids with celestial bodies can be explained through advanced understanding of astronomy, and the precise masonry work reflects meticulous planning and skilled craftsmanship—achievements attributed to human ingenuity rather than alien intervention. The myth that these feats could not have been achieved without extraterrestrial assistance is refuted by numerous excavations revealing tools, worker villages, and inscriptions depicting construction techniques.

The appeal of conspiracy theories is often rooted in their simplicity and the allure of uncovering secret knowledge suppressed by governments or elites. However, critical thinking and scientific literacy are essential tools for evaluating such claims. Scientific methodology involves hypotheses testing, peer review, and reliance on tangible evidence—principles often absent in conspiracy narratives. For example, the notion that ancient civilizations had access to lost ancient technologies is contradicted by archaeological findings that show a progression of technological development and documented methods used in construction.

In conclusion, social media has democratized access to information but has also facilitated the spread of pseudoscientific theories. Promoting scientific literacy and critical thinking can help individuals distinguish between well-supported scientific explanations and alluring but unfounded conspiracy claims, especially concerning ancient engineering marvels and extraterrestrial influence.

Conclusion

The construction of the Egyptian pyramids exemplifies the remarkable ingenuity and organizational skills of ancient civilizations. These monumental structures, built over 4,500 years ago, were primarily constructed using locally available natural materials such as limestone, granite, and sandstone. The Egyptians employed a sophisticated understanding of basic physics principles—most notably, gravity and leverage—to move and position massive stone blocks. Archaeological evidence, including quarrying tools and remnants of construction sites, supports this understanding.

Organized labor played a crucial role in the successful construction of the pyramids. Ancient Egypt’s centralized administration coordinated large workforces, which often consisted of skilled artisans and laborers. Contrary to popular myth, evidence suggests that the workforce was well-fed and housed properly, indicating that these were not slaves but rather paid workers. Experiments and reconstructions, such as those conducted by the German archaeologist Mark Lehner, have demonstrated that such monumental feats could be achieved through the use of simple machines like ramps, levers, and sledges.

Claims attributing pyramid construction to extraterrestrial beings, lasers, or electricity lack credible scientific support. These theories are often based on speculation or misinterpretation of archaeological findings. For instance, the idea that laser technology or electricity was used to cut or move stones is incompatible with the known technological level of ancient Egypt. Advances in experimental archaeology have shown that the tools and methods available at the time were sufficient for the construction tasks, relying on human effort and ingenuity.

In summary, the Egyptian pyramids stand as enduring symbols of human achievement. They serve as tangible evidence of the engineering knowledge, labor organization, and resourcefulness of ancient peoples. Recognizing these accomplishments promotes a more accurate understanding of early engineering capabilities and dispels myths that diminish human ingenuity. By studying these ancient monuments scientifically, we gain a deeper appreciation of our shared history and the timeless capacity for innovation.

{ PETER2011 }

25-10-2025 om 22:33 geschreven door peter  

Massive burial uncovered in 2,200-year-old city confirms four chapters in the Bible

By STACY LIBERATORE, US SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY EDITOR

Ancient tombs and artifacts uncovered in Turkey provide new evidence of Colossae, the city immortalized in St Paul's letters in the Bible. 

Excavations in the Aegean region at the foothills of Mount Honaz have revealed over 60 tombs dating back more than 2,200 years.

The findings, reported by Turkey's state-run Anadolu Agency on October 6, shed new light on a city best known from the New Testament as the home of an early Christian community addressed by St Paul in his Epistle to the Colossians. 

In his letter, Paul emphasizes that Jesus is supreme over all things and that believers are complete in Him, freed from spiritual powers and legalistic rituals. The letter spans 95 verses across four chapters.

Paul warns the Colossians against false teachings that diminish Christ's role, urging them instead to live as new creations, setting their minds on things above and embodying love, kindness and forgiveness

Archaeologists now believe the newly discovered necropolis may be the largest of its kind in Anatolia, featuring rock-cut, trough-shaped tombs that showcase the ingenuity of ancient builders in using the natural travertine formations.

Archaeologist Baris Yener said: 'After removing the surface soil, we identified around 65 tombs, of which we excavated 60.'

The tombs contained a remarkable array of artifacts, providing insight into the spiritual and cultural life of Colossae before the arrival of Christianity. 

Archaeologists have identified 65 ancient tombs in a city mentioned in the Bible

In the Bible St Paul wrote a letter emphasizing that Jesus is supreme over all things and that believers are fully complete in Him, freed from spiritual powers and legalistic rituals.

Terracotta ceramics, glass bottles, and oil lamps were discovered, alongside coins, sandals, and personal belongings of the deceased. 

Paul, born as Saul of Tarsus, was an early Christian missionary and one of the most influential figures in the spread of Christianity. 

The Bible says that before his conversion, Paul actively persecuted Christians, believing their teachings were a threat to Judaism. 

He was present at the stoning of Stephen, one of the first Christian martyrs, and sought to arrest Christians in various cities to stop the spread of their faith. 

On the road to Damascus, Saul experienced a dramatic encounter with Jesus, in which a bright light blinded him and he heard Jesus ask, 'Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?' according to biblical text.

After this event, Saul was temporarily blind and later baptized, fully converting to Christianity and taking the name Paul. 

Following his conversion, Paul dedicated his life to preaching the teachings of Jesus and establishing Christian communities throughout the Roman Empire. 

The Bible says he was martyred by beheading in Rome around 64 or 68 AD, likely during Emperor Nero's persecution of Christians. 

Archaeologists now believe the newly discovered necropolis may be the largest of its kind in Anatolia, featuring rock-cut, trough-shaped tombs that showcase the ingenuity of ancient builders in using the natural travertine formations

The tombs were filled with artifacts, highlighting rich spiritual and religious traditions long before St Paul wrote his letter

Before his death, Paul wrote the Letter to the Colossians, found in Colossians 1:1, primarily to refute a heresy that threatened the church by diminishing the supremacy of Christ. 

The discoveries have suggested that the people of Colossae practiced rich spiritual and religious traditions long before St Paul wrote his letter, FOX News reported.

Many of the artifacts were likely placed in the graves to accompany the dead on their journey into the afterlife, illustrating beliefs about life beyond death. 

In addition to these items, the archaeologists uncovered charms, amulets and stones believed to have healing or protective properties. 

'The findings reveal how much the people of Colossae valued magic, talismans and objects believed to offer protection,' Yener noted.

'These pre-Christian practices provide essential context for understanding the religious environment in which the early Christian community emerged.'

The discoveries are particularly significant because they illuminate the world into which St Paul wrote his epistle. 

The Colossians, living in a city steeped in ancient religious traditions, were likely influenced by local spiritual practices and beliefs, which Paul addressed in his letters. 

The presence of mystical objects and charms suggested that concepts of protection, ritual and magic were commonplace, elements that Paul sought to guide toward Christian faith.

The tam uncovered skeletal remains inside the tombs dating back more than 2,000 years ago

The necropolis also offers clues about social and economic structures, as the arrangement of the tombs, the wealth of the grave goods and the use of durable materials indicate a city with organized urban planning and a community capable of sustaining long-term settlement. 

Yener said excavators were surprised to find so many side-by-side tombs in such a confined area. 

The necropolis reflects how ancient people made 'remarkable use' of the area's geological and topographical features. 

'They sought to use the travertine rock formations efficiently, since agriculture — particularly grain production was practiced at the time,' Yener said. 

'To preserve arable land, they designated the rocky travertine areas as burial grounds.' 

Oil lamps, for instance, were not just practical but also served a symbolic purpose, highlighting the importance of light in religious and funerary rituals.

While the tombs themselves predate the Christian era, their discovery adds depth to our understanding of Colossae as a historical and cultural hub. 

The team believes that continued excavation could reveal even more about the city's architecture, trade networks, and daily life, painting a fuller picture of the environment in which early Christianity took root.

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24-10-2025 om 22:24 geschreven door peter  

It looks like it could have been laid yesterday.

But believe it or not, this dinosaur egg, recently unearthed in Argentina, dates back 70 million years.

The ancient egg was discovered in Rio Negro in Patagonia and has left experts around the world stunned.

While it appears remarkably similar to an ostrich egg, it was likely laid by a member of the Bonapartenykus genus – a small, carnivorous therapod that prowled the region during the late Cretaceous period.

Although dinosaur eggs have been found in the area before, one this well preserved is rare.

It may even contain embryonic material, according to the archaeology team – who plan to carry out in–depth scans to find out. 

'It was a complete and utter surprise,' Gonzalo Muñoz, from the Bernardo Rivadavia Argentine Museum of Natural Sciences, told National Geographic.

'It's not uncommon to find dinosaur fossils, but the issue with eggs is that they are much less common.'

Although dinosaur eggs have been found in the area before, one this well preserved is rare and likely belonged to a small, carnivorous therapod

Pictures from the site show group leader Federico Agnolín stumble across the egg, which appeared to be resting on the surface of the dusty ground

He explained that eggs from carnivorous dinosaurs are especially rare for several reasons.

'First, there are fewer carnivores than herbivores,' he said. 'But apart from that, their eggs are more avian–like since the carnivorous dinosaur lineage is the one that will give rise to birds.

'Therefore, they're going to be more delicate eggs, with much thinner shells more prone to destruction.

'Finding those types of eggs are more difficult. That's why this discovery is so exceptional and spectacular.'

The egg, along with other findings from the site, will be sent to the Argentine Museum of Natural Sciences to be studied.

He said he hopes the egg contains an embryo, but in–depth scans will be needed to determine if there is anything inside.

If traces of a developing dinosaur are found, it would mark one of the most important paleontological breakthroughs in South American history and provide new detail about how dinosaurs developed and hatched.

The Cretaceous Expedition I also uncovered mammal teeth and snake vertebrae, indicating the site was once a nesting ground.

Federico Agnolín proudly shows off the incredible fossilised egg. The team said they don't yet know if it holds embryonic material

Previous research suggests this is what Bonapartenykus may have looked like (artist's impression)

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A video taken at the site shows group leader Federico Agnolín stumble across the egg, which appeared to be resting on the surface of the dusty ground.

His excitement is palpable as he realises he has come across such a well–preserved specimen.

Other, broken eggs can also be seen in the vicinity, w=ith fragments held up to the camera.11

The caption on the video, shared to Instagram, reads: 'This is quite possibly the first discovery of its kind in South America.

'As you can see, this fossil is more than 70,000,000 years old and it was not alone – we found a cluster!'

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23-10-2025 om 18:29 geschreven door peter  

Just three miles from the Giza Pyramids lies a mysterious site known as Zawyet El Aryan, nicknamed Egypt's Area 51, sealed off by the military for decades.

Archaeologist Alessandro Barsanti first excavated the site in the early 1900s, uncovering a colossal T-shaped pit carved into solid limestone, nearly 100 feet deep and lined with massive granite blocks. 

At the center of one chamber sits an oval vat with a fitted granite lid, which Barsanti reported contained traces of an unknown substance, now lost.

Many Egyptologists believe the site was intended as a pyramid that was never completed, though no superstructure was ever built above the pit. 

The site's true purpose remains a mystery, but graffiti discovered inside includes the word 'Seba,' interpreted by some researchers as the ancient Egyptian term for a 'gateway to the stars.' 

Independent researcher Derek Olsen discussed the mysterious structure on the Matt Beall Limitless podcast, suggesting this could indicate the structure was built as a vessel for cosmic travel or spiritual ascension. 

The shaft and chambers' dimensions and construction, massive granite floors, smooth limestone walls, and a sealed central vat have fueled speculation about advanced or ceremonial purposes. 

The mystery deepened when the Egyptian military seized control of the site in the mid-1960s, blocking all modern excavations and tours and leaving Barsanti’s early photographs as the sole detailed record of the complex. 

Archaeologist Alessandro Barsanti first excavated the site in the early 1900s, uncovering a colossal T-shaped pit carved into solid limestone, nearly 100 feet deep and lined with massive granite blocks

The Egyptian military took over the site in the 1960s, leading it to be called Egypt's Area 51

During Barsanti's original excavation, graffiti written in black and red ink was found on the walls, one inscription reading 'Seba-[unknown]-Ka.' 

While no one knows the full text or its meaning, it translates to 'star' and 'vital essence' or 'life force.' 

Olson believes it is the ancient Egyptian word for 'gateway to the stars,' suggesting the structure was built as a vessel for the ancient people to travel the cosmos.

However, mainstream scientists noted that it was likely the name of a builder or represented a figure of the time.

The T-shaped structure is carved directly into the natural bedrock, with walls that are smooth but were never covered with stones. 

The chamber at the end of the shaft was never completed, and only the floor was finished and covered with massive granite blocks, each measuring approximately 15 feet long and 8 feet thick, weighing up to 18,000 pounds.

The exact purpose remains a mystery, with many Egyptologists believing the site was the beginning of an unfinished pyramid complex from the 3rd or 4th Dynasties. 

While others think it served as an experimental foundation or ceremonial chamber that was never completed.

At the center of one chamber sits an oval vat with a fitted granite lid, which Barsanti reported contained traces of an unknown substance, now lost.

Egypt's Area 51 was a recent topic on the Matt Beall Limitless podcast, which features guest Derek Olsen (left)

Olson explained that the massive granite blocks were moved to the site for the flooring. 

'Why would you need a 10-foot-tall granite block on the floor?' Beall asked, to which Olson said: 'Right, when it's naturally limestone [on the ground].' 

Olson added: 'How they fashion that the limestone walls are mindboggling.'

Beall quickly jumped in, saying: 'And why? What is the tub for? What would the original purpose of it be? Complete mystery, I guess, right?' 

Archaeologist Alessandro Barsanti first excavated the site in the early 1900s, uncovering a colossal T-shaped pit carved into solid limestone, nearly 100 feet deep and lined with massive granite blocks. His photos are the only view people have of the site

The site is about three miles from the Giza pyramids

The T-shaped structure is carved directly into the natural bedrock, with walls that are smooth but were never covered with stones

The tub is approximately 10 feet long, 7 feet wide, and 5 feet deep. 

It was found sealed with a granite lid, suggesting it was intended to be a closed container. 

The archaeologists also claimed to have discovered a damaged dedication tablet bearing the name of King Djedefre, which could potentially link the pyramid to this Fourth Dynasty ruler.

 However, this tablet's authenticity and significance remain subjects of debate among scholars 

Olson highlighted similar ancient Egyptian structures with granite boxes, including the Great Pyramid, the Serapeum and the Saqqara pyramid. 

'We are seeing a theme of this huge granite floor and a lid-like structure,' he said.

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23-10-2025 om 18:10 geschreven door peter