🧐 Ancient Beat #139: Ancient heroes, Neolithic building practices, and a new terracotta warrior
Happy Holidays, folks! I’m making this issue open to all. Enjoy the full shebang!
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And heads up that I’ll be out next week, so no new issue.
Okay, here’s the latest ancient news. 👇
🗞 Ancient News: Top 5
Mysterious Terracotta Commander Offers New Clues to China’s Ancient Qin Dynasty Army — Archaeologists at the mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang in Shaanxi province, China, have unearthed a life-size terracotta figure believed to represent a senior military commander. This statue, discovered in pit No. 2, is distinguished by intricate armor patterns, headdresses, and specific hand placement, indicating high rank. To date, only ten such statues have been found among the approximately 8,000 warriors at the site. The figure's symmetrical front and back, adorned with exquisite patterns and ribbons, provide valuable insights into the military organization and hierarchy of the Qin dynasty (221–207 BCE). This discovery coincides with the 50th anniversary of the terracotta warriors' initial unearthing in 1974.
Image credit: CCTV New Computational Method Uncovers Surprising Variability in Neolithic Building Practices — Researchers have developed a computational approach to analyze early architectural forms in the Near East, challenging the traditional view of a linear progression from round to rectangular structures during the Neolithic period (15,000–8,500 BP). By digitizing building outlines and applying quantitative analyses, the study reveals that right-angled structures existed as early as the Natufian period (14,500–11,500 BP), indicating advanced building techniques earlier than previously thought. Additionally, the study revealed that architectural variability peaked during the Natufian and early Neolithic periods, indicating a lack of standardized building practices. As societies became more established, architectural forms exhibited greater uniformity, potentially reflecting the development of codified building traditions alongside the rise of agricultural economies and permanent settlements.
Tomb Of Ancient Hero — Filled With Gold And Statues — Found In Greece — A 55-foot-long limestone structure believed to be a Heroön (hero shrine) was uncovered in Achaia, Greece, dating to before 300 BCE. Located in the public area of an ancient city, the tomb contained remarkable artifacts showcasing its importance. Among the finds were fragments of Corinthian columns, a funerary bust of a young man, and marble statues of lions, including one with a detailed mane and open mouth. Jewelry unearthed includes gold hoop earrings adorned with lion heads, a necklace with lion motifs, a gold ring, and a scepter featuring a winged cupid. A sarcophagus and intact tombs within the structure suggest that individuals of high social status were buried here. Pottery and additional remains surrounding the site date back to the 8th century BCE, highlighting the area’s long-term significance.
Did Our Ancestors Face Oblivion 900,000 Years Ago? — A 2023 study proposed that human ancestors experienced a severe population bottleneck around 900,000 years ago, reducing numbers to approximately 1,280 individuals and lasting for 117,000 years. This hypothesis was based on analyses using the FitCoal computational model, which examined genetic diversity in modern genomes. However, a new study published in Genetics challenges this claim, suggesting that the inferred bottleneck may be a statistical artifact resulting from oversimplified assumptions in the model. Critics argue that if such a bottleneck had occurred, it would leave detectable traces in all modern human genomes, including non-African populations, which is not the case. This debate underscores the complexities and limitations of using computational models to reconstruct ancient human population dynamics, highlighting the need for caution in interpreting such findings without corroborative evidence from multiple methodologies.
More Than 1,300 Prehistoric Burial Mounds in Western Azerbaijan Systematically Surveyed for the First Time — Researchers have conducted the first systematic survey of over 1,300 kurgans — prehistoric burial mounds — in Western Azerbaijan's Goranboy district. Utilizing satellite imagery, geomagnetic and electromagnetic measurements, and ground-penetrating radar, the team documented the mounds' dimensions and spatial arrangements, revealing that they are often clustered. Artifacts collected from the surface suggest these burial sites date back several millennia, offering insights into the region's ancient socio-cultural developments. This comprehensive documentation provides a foundation for future archaeological research and preservation efforts in the Caucasus region.
🗞 Ancient News: Deep Dive
Neanderthal Physique: Rethinking Strength and Adaptation Through Ribcage Morphology — Recent virtual reconstructions of Neanderthal ribcages, particularly from the Shanidar 3 and Kebara 2 specimens, reveal a distinctive "bell-shaped" thorax. This structure suggests Neanderthals possessed larger diaphragms and greater lung capacities compared to modern humans, supporting higher metabolic rates and active lifestyles. Such physiology would have been advantageous for ambush hunting strategies, requiring short bursts of intense energy, as opposed to endurance running. Interestingly, these anatomical features are present in Neanderthals from both cold and temperate climates, indicating that their ribcage morphology was a versatile adaptation rather than exclusively cold-adapted.
Ancient Genes Pinpoint When Humans and Neanderthals Mixed and Mingled — Recent genetic analyses indicate that humans and Neanderthals interbred around 45,000 years ago, slightly later than previously thought. This conclusion comes from studying ancient human remains found in the Czech Republic and Germany, which contain Neanderthal DNA fragments dating to that period. The genetic exchange introduced Neanderthal genes related to immunity and metabolism, aiding human adaptation to non-African environments. Today, traces of Neanderthal DNA persist in modern humans, influencing traits like skin and hair color.
How Inner Ears Reveal Clues About Early Hominin Behavior — Recent research has examined the inner ear structures of two South African hominins, Paranthropus robustus and Australopithecus africanus, uncovering significant differences that shed light on their behavior and evolutionary paths. The study focused on the bony labyrinth, particularly the otolithic organs responsible for balance and spatial orientation. Findings indicate that P. robustus possessed a uniquely compressed vestibular system, with a smaller saccule and narrower vestibular aqueduct, resembling that of modern great apes. This suggests adaptations to a specific ecological niche, potentially linked to a ground-dwelling lifestyle or dietary specialization. In contrast, A. africanus displayed a more generalized vestibular morphology, indicating a versatile locomotor repertoire.
Researchers Reveal 8,000 Years of Aboriginal History on Yorke Peninsula — Recent studies on South Australia's Yorke Peninsula (Guuranda) have uncovered 8,000 years of Aboriginal history. Radiocarbon dating of marine shells from seven archaeological sites — four on the mainland at Point Pearce Peninsula (Burgiyana) and three on Wardang Island (Waraldi) — offers insights into the Narungga people's use of Sea Country. These findings span periods before and after sea levels rose following the Last Glacial Maximum, indicating how Narungga ancestors adapted to environmental changes, including the formation of new islands. The research also highlights the Narungga's enduring connection to their coastal and island environments, even after European settlement.
Archaeological Study Uncovers World's Oldest Evidence of Livestock Horn Manipulation — A recent study has revealed the earliest known physical evidence of livestock horn modification, specifically in sheep, dating back to approximately 3700 BCE. Discovered at an elite burial complex in Hierakonpolis, Upper Egypt, six sheep skulls exhibited deformations indicative of deliberate horn alteration. Techniques involved fracturing and repositioning the horn cores, a practice still observed among some African agro-pastoralist groups today.
‘Something Horrible’: Somerset Pit Reveals Bronze Age Cannibalism — In Charterhouse Warren, Somerset, archaeologists have uncovered a mass grave dating between 2200 BCE and 2000 BCE, containing the remains of at least 37 individuals, including men, women, and children. Analysis indicates these individuals suffered violent deaths from blunt force trauma, with subsequent dismemberment and butchery. Cut marks on bones and evidence of marrow extraction suggest cannibalistic practices. Hand and foot bones exhibit human bite marks, reinforcing this theory. The presence of abundant cattle remains at the site implies that cannibalism was not driven by starvation but possibly served as a means to dehumanize enemies.
Syphilis Had Its Roots in the Americas, Archaeological Bone Study Suggests — Recent research indicates that syphilis originated in the Americas and was introduced to Europe after 1492. The study analyzed ancient DNA from the bacterium Treponema pallidum, responsible for syphilis, extracted from skeletal remains in Mexico, Peru, Chile, and Argentina, most predating 1492. Findings reveal that syphilis and related diseases were present in the Americas and were transmitted to Europe following transatlantic contact. The research also uncovered extinct variants of the bacterium, highlighting its pre-Columbian diversity and subsequent global spread due to European colonialism.
New Findings at Fortress of 'Wolf King' — Recent excavations at Larache, a medieval fortress near Murcia, Spain, have provided fresh insights into its historical use. Previously believed to be a bathing area, the so-called "Larache Pool" is now thought to have been part of an intricate irrigation system, suggesting it was a landscaped garden linked to a yet-to-be-discovered palatial structure. This challenges earlier interpretations and highlights the site's significance during the reign of the "Wolf King," who ruled Murcia from 1147 to 1172 CE.
Roman Road Excavated in the Netherlands — A 2,000-year-old Roman road has been uncovered in Utrecht, central Netherlands, during pre-construction investigations. This gravel road likely connected to Traiectum, a Roman fortress situated in what is now downtown Utrecht. It probably served as a branch of the road along the Lower Germanic limes, the Roman Empire's frontier. The discovery includes a cart or wagon harness and a silver ornament, possibly a hair accessory.
Medieval Kitchen Unearthed in Oxford — During renovation work at Oriel College, founded in 1326, archaeologists uncovered remnants of the college's medieval kitchens. Findings include a roasting hearth, an oven base, and sections of a stone wall that may have delineated the college's original boundaries.
Floor Repaired With Cattle Bones Uncovered in The Netherlands — During renovations in Alkmaar, North Holland, a tile floor from the early 17th century was found to have been repaired using cattle bones. The bones, all mid-foot sections cut to uniform sizes, were arranged in a pattern, suggesting they were used either for practical repairs or symbolic reasons. This floor likely dates to the 15th century and may have been part of an earlier structure on the site.
Gold Tongues Discovered in the Mouths of Mummies at Oxyrhynchus — Archaeologists excavating at Oxyrhynchus, near Al-Bahansa, Egypt, have uncovered 52 mummies from the Ptolemaic era (305–30 BCE), some with gold tongues placed in their mouths. This ritual was intended to enable the deceased to speak before Osiris in the afterlife. The tombs feature wall paintings depicting deities, including a celestial scene with the goddess Nut. One sealed tomb contained a mummified adult male with a gold tongue, accompanied by funerary offerings such as a heart scarab amulet, four canopic jars, and 400 pieces of funerary ceramics.
Image credit: University of Barcelona 1,800-Year-Old Silver Amulet Could Rewrite History of Christianity in the Early Roman Empire — An 1,800-year-old silver amulet unearthed in Frankfurt, Germany, has been identified as the earliest known evidence of Christianity north of the Alps. Discovered in 2018 beneath the chin of a man's skeleton dated between 230 and 270 CE, the amulet contained a tightly rolled silver foil. Advanced CT scanning revealed an 18-line Latin inscription declaring Jesus Christ as the "Son of God," featuring the Trisagion and an early quotation from Paul's Letter to the Philippians. This suggests that Christian beliefs had reached and were practiced in this region earlier than previously documented, potentially altering the timeline of Christianity's spread in Europe. The man was buried with an incense burner and a clay jug, indicating ritual significance. Such amulets were typically worn for protection against misfortunes and demonic forces, highlighting the personal devotion of early Christians during a period when they faced persecution within the Roman Empire.
Ancient Brooches, Wine Jugs, and a Bone Pen Found in Celtic Settlement in Germany — Recent excavations near Altenburg, Germany, have unveiled significant artifacts from the late Celtic oppidum Altenburg-Rheinau, a major trade and craft center in the first century BCE. Archaeologists discovered large cylindrical storage pits, some up to 8.2 feet deep, likely used for food preservation. Among the finds are local pottery fragments, imported Italian wine amphorae, coins, and ornately decorated brooches and belt components made of bronze and iron, reflecting the settlement's role in trade and cultural exchange. Notably, a bone stylus used for writing on wax tablets was uncovered, providing rare evidence of literacy within the oppidum. Additionally, well-preserved animal bones, primarily from cattle, suggest organized livestock farming and specialized meat production, offering deeper insights into the daily life and economic practices of the Celtic inhabitants.
Rare Medieval Relics, Including Saintly Figures, Unearthed at Berlin’s Molkenmarkt — Archaeologists excavating Berlin's Molkenmarkt have uncovered medieval artifacts illuminating Late Middle Ages religious practices. Finds include nearly intact statuettes of Saint Catherine of Alexandria and the Madonna with Child, both dated to the mid-15th century. The Saint Catherine figure, approximately 4.3 inches tall, features a spiked crown, sword, and wheel, symbolizing her martyrdom. The Madonna statuette, though missing its head, depicts the Virgin Mary cradling the Christ Child, offering him an apple—a symbol of humanity's redemption. Additionally, fragments of 188 female ceramic figurines from the mid-14th century were found, some containing inlays of human bone fragments, suggesting they served as reliquaries.
Hecate Depiction Found in 3,000-Year-Old Temple Complex — Archaeologists excavating a 3,000-year-old temple complex in Turkey's southwestern Muğla province have uncovered a depiction of the goddess Hecate. The discovery was made at Lagina, an ancient Greek town and religious center of the polis of Stratonicea, known for its temple dedicated to Hecate. The find includes a Hecate torch motif on a column and Corinthian capitals from the Hellenistic and Roman periods, with a figurative Corinthian column capital from the 2nd century CE unearthed for the first time.
Medieval Bag Matches Charlemagne’s Burial Shroud — A medieval silk seal bag displayed at Westminster Abbey has been found to match the silk used in Emperor Charlemagne's burial shroud. Charlemagne, who ruled from 800 to 814 CE, was interred at Aachen Cathedral in Germany. The seal bag, dating from the reign of King Henry III, once held the Great Seal removed from Edward the Confessor’s shrine in 1267 during a financial crisis. Both the shroud and the bag feature identical designs of white hares and floral patterns in faded gold, blue, and red, suggesting they originated from the same 12th-century workshop, possibly in the eastern Mediterranean.
Lost Score from Scotland Revives Sound of Music and Voices from Centuries Past — A fragment of music discovered in Scotland's first full-length printed book, the Aberdeen Breviary of 1510, offers a glimpse into 16th-century Scottish religious music. Found in a copy formerly held at Glamis Castle, now in the National Library of Scotland, the 55-note score lacks text or title but has been identified as a unique harmonization of "Cultor Dei," a Lenten hymn. This piece is the only known musical example from northeastern Scotland of that era, providing rare insight into pre-Reformation liturgical practices.
Image credit: https://digital.nls.uk/aberdeen-breviary/archive/102878258?mode=fullsize Sculpture Fragments Unearthed in Athens — Recent excavations on the southern slope of Athens' Acropolis, near the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, have uncovered significant sculpture fragments. These include upper and lower limbs that may correspond to a previously recovered statue of Hermes, as well as the torso of another male figure. Additionally, fragments of a figurine and a collection of oil lamps dated to the fifth century CE were found.
Ancient Roman Harbor Wooden Structures Analyzed with MRI Technology — Researchers have applied nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) methods, akin to MRI technology, to study well-preserved wooden structures from a Roman harbor unearthed in Naples, Italy. These wooden piers, dating back centuries, remained intact due to waterlogged conditions. NMR techniques allowed for a non-invasive examination of the wood's structural integrity and decay processes, providing insights into ancient construction methods and preservation states. This approach offers a promising avenue for analyzing and conserving archaeological wood without causing damage.
The Life of a 17,000-Year-Old Infant from Ice Age Italy — In Grotta delle Mura near Monopoli, Italy, researchers have analyzed the remains of a 17,000-year-old infant, providing insights into Upper Paleolithic life. Genetic analysis reveals the boy had dark, curly hair, blue eyes, and medium-dark skin. He belonged to the Villabruna cluster, suggesting this lineage emerged earlier than previously thought. The child suffered from familial hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a genetic heart condition likely leading to his early death at 16 months. Isotopic analysis of his teeth indicates physiological stress. The burial was simple, with the body placed under stone slabs without accompanying grave goods, reflecting the community's burial practices during that period.
Stone Age Family Killed in House Fire 6,000 Years Ago, Study Reveals — In Kosenivka, Ukraine, archaeologists have uncovered a tragic scene dating back to approximately 3690–3620 BCE. Within a burned dwelling, they found the remains of seven individuals: two children, one adolescent, and four adults. Four of these individuals were heavily burned inside the house, while three unburned bodies were discovered just outside. Microscopic analysis indicates that the burning occurred shortly after death, suggesting the fire was deliberate. Additionally, two adults exhibited unhealed cranial injuries, pointing to violent deaths. Radiocarbon dating revealed that six individuals died around the same time, with a seventh person's remains dating roughly 130 years later, indicating a complex series of events. This discovery provides rare insight into the Cucuteni-Trypillia culture, known for creating some of the earliest "mega-sites" in prehistoric Europe. The findings suggest that these individuals may have been victims of intergroup conflict, challenging previous assumptions about the peaceful nature of this society.
The First King of China? Archaeologists Discover 5,000-Year-Old Tomb of Possible Ancient Monarch — In Wangzhuang, Henan Province, China, archaeologists have unearthed a 5,000-year-old tomb, designated M27, measuring approximately 4.8 meters (15.7 feet) in length and 3.68 meters (12.1 feet) in width. This tomb, among the largest from the Dawenkou culture period, contained over 1,000 artifacts, including ceramics, jade ornaments, bone tools, and animal remains like pig mandibles. The abundance of jade items, with nearly 200 pieces, suggests the occupant's high status, possibly a ruler of a complex society in western Henan. The site's cultural elements indicate a convergence of influences from the Central Plains Yangshao culture, Southern Qujialing culture, and Liangzhu culture, highlighting the region's role as a prehistoric cultural melting pot.
Tracing the Genetic Blueprint of Teeth: Insights from Human Evolution — Recent research has identified 18 genomic regions influencing human tooth size and shape, with 17 being newly associated with dental dimensions. Notably, a variant in the HS3ST3A1 gene, inherited from Neanderthals, correlates with thinner incisors in individuals of European descent. The study utilized high-resolution 3D scans of dental casts from 882 Colombian volunteers of mixed ancestry, integrating these measurements with genetic data through a genome-wide association study. Findings also highlighted the EDAR gene's role in determining tooth width across all teeth, expanding its known influence beyond East Asian populations.
Ancient Clay Remedy May Have Potential to Boost Modern Gut Health — Lemnian earth (LE) is a medicinal clay from Lemnos, Greece that has been used for over 2,500 years. It may offer benefits for contemporary gut health. Historically shaped into pellets and consumed with liquids, LE's therapeutic properties likely stem from a deliberate combination of specific clays and fungi. Recent research suggests that such combinations produce compounds beneficial to gut bacteria, aiding in maintaining a balanced microbiome. Experiments with smectite-rich clay and fungi demonstrated antibacterial activity and positive effects on gut microbiota, indicating potential for developing new gut health therapies inspired by ancient remedies.
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Happy Holidays!!!
-James
Twitter: @jamesofthedrum
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