Archaeologists have found the oldest known break in Turkey, dating back to 6600 BC. They found a destroyed oven structure in an area called Mekan 66. According to Turkey's Necmettin Erbakan University of Science and Technology Research and Application Center (BITAM), the archaeological site of Çatalhöyük in the southern Turkish province of Konya had adjoining mudbrick houses.

Archaeologists have found the oldest known break in Turkey, dating back to 6600 BC. They found a destroyed oven structure in an area called Mekan 66. According to Turkey's Necmettin Erbakan University of Science and Technology Research and Application Center (BITAM), the archaeological site of Çatalhöyük in the southern Turkish province of Konya had adjoining mudbrick houses. The research team found wheat, barley, pea seeds, and a palm-sized, round, "spongy" residue around the oven. After analysis, the archaeologists found that the organic residue was 8,600-year-old uncooked, fermented bread. Archaeologist Ali Umut Türkcan, head of the Excavation Delegation and an associate professor at Anadolu University in Turkey, told Turkish state news outlet Anadolu Agency, "We can say that this finds at Çatalhöyük is the oldest bread in the world." "It is a smaller version of a loaf of bread. It has a finger pressed in the center, it has not been baked, but it has been fermented and has survived to the present day with the starches inside. There is no similar example of something like this to date," he added. ALSO READ | Scientists develop recyclable ‘water batteries’ that never explode Biologist Salih Kavak, a lecturer at Gaziantep University in Turkey, said air spaces in the sample with the sighting of starch grains, found after scanning electron microscope images, eliminated their suspicions. "It is an exciting discovery for Turkey and the world," Kavak said. According to Türkcan, the organic matter, wood and bread were preserved by thin clay, covering the structure. Fossilised trees dating 390 million years are the world's oldest in Çatalhöyük. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site, where around 8.000 people resided during the Neolithic period between 10,000 BC and 2,000 BC. According to BITAM, it is one of the world's first places of urbanisation. Several studies have revealed that the well-preserved site has unique housing layouts and extensive characteristics like wall paintings. According to the UNESCO website, it is one of the "most significant human settlements documenting early settled agricultural life of a Neolithic community." "Çatalhöyük was already the center of many firsts. The world's first weavings were already in Çatalhöyük when it was excavated. Wooden artifacts were also in Çatalhöyük. Wall paints and paintings were added to this. Konya and Turkey are very lucky in this sense," Türkcan said. (With inputs from agencies)

Archaeologists discover ‘world’s oldest bread,’ dating back 8,600 years, in Turkey

Archaeologists have discovered the earliest dated cave paintings in South America in Argentine Patagonia, dating back 8,200 years. Watch in for more details!

Archaeologists excavate mankind's earliest dated cave paintings

Archaeologists made a major discovery amid the ruins of the Roman city of Pompeii as they discovered a fresco painting which depicted the Greek mythological siblings Phrixus and Helle.

Pompeii Archaeological Park's director Gabriel Zuchtriegel described the find as a major reflection of history.

“History has repeated itself,” Zuchtriegel said, as he made an announcement regarding the excavation and restoration work.

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<h2>All about the unique fresco&nbsp;</h2>

“It is a beautiful fresco in an excellent state of conservation. The myth of Phrixus and Helle is widespread at Pompeii but it is topical too. They are two refugees at sea, a brother and sister, forced to flee because their stepmother wants rid of them and she does so with deception and corruption. She [Helle] fell into the water and drowned," he said.

Exquisite artistry and vibrant colours dominate the fresco which depicts Helle on the verge of drowning and her face appears obscured by waves as she extends her hand to her brother.

Zuchtriegel optimistically spoke about giving access to these preserved homes to the public in the near future, as the highlighted the latest find's cultural and historical significance.

In AD79, a volcanic eruption destroyed the ancient city of Pompeii in which more than 2,000 people were killed. These ruins today have become one of the world's most visited archaeological sites.

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Pompeii attracts nearly four million visitors every year. In 2013, Unesco had threatened to include it in the list of world heritage sites in peril after which Italian authorities started its preservation.

In recent months, the archaeological stuffs unearthed include 13 Nativity-style statuettes which provide evidence of pagan ritual traditions that were carried out in the ancient Roman city.

Last June, the archaeologists discovered a striking still-life fresco which resembles a pizza and included an item that appeared like a pineapple.

(With inputs from agencies)

Archaeologists made a major discovery amid the ruins of the Roman city of Pompeii as they discovered a fresco painting which depicted the Greek mythological siblings Phrixus and Helle.

Archaeologists made a major discovery amid the ruins of the Roman city of Pompeii as they discovered a fresco painting which depicted the Greek mythological siblings Phrixus and Helle. Pompeii Archaeological Park's director Gabriel Zuchtriegel described the find as a major reflection of history. “History has repeated itself,” Zuchtriegel said, as he made an announcement regarding the excavation and restoration work. Also Read: AI helps read 2,000-year-old Roman scroll from Pompeii charred by Mount Vesuvius volcano All about the unique fresco “It is a beautiful fresco in an excellent state of conservation. The myth of Phrixus and Helle is widespread at Pompeii but it is topical too. They are two refugees at sea, a brother and sister, forced to flee because their stepmother wants rid of them and she does so with deception and corruption. She [Helle] fell into the water and drowned," he said. Exquisite artistry and vibrant colours dominate the fresco which depicts Helle on the verge of drowning and her face appears obscured by waves as she extends her hand to her brother. Zuchtriegel optimistically spoke about giving access to these preserved homes to the public in the near future, as the highlighted the latest find's cultural and historical significance. In AD79, a volcanic eruption destroyed the ancient city of Pompeii in which more than 2,000 people were killed. These ruins today have become one of the world's most visited archaeological sites. Watch: Why Humans lost their tails 25 million years ago revealed Pompeii attracts nearly four million visitors every year. In 2013, Unesco had threatened to include it in the list of world heritage sites in peril after which Italian authorities started its preservation. In recent months, the archaeological stuffs unearthed include 13 Nativity-style statuettes which provide evidence of pagan ritual traditions that were carried out in the ancient Roman city. Last June, the archaeologists discovered a striking still-life fresco which resembles a pizza and included an item that appeared like a pineapple. (With inputs from agencies)

Archaeologists discover frescoes of Greek mythological siblings from ashes of Pompeii

For millennia, humans have adorned themselves with personal ornaments. These serve as a connection to their communities and help in establishing a cultural identity that endures even after their lives, as proven by a recent archaeological find that points to multiple cultural groups among our ancient ancestors.&nbsp;

<h2>Early humans</h2>

A recent study examining thousands of pendants from the ice age in Europe, dating between 34,000 and 24,000 years ago, has revealed the presence of at least nine distinct cultural groups within the broader Gravettian population. As per a study published in Nature Human Behavior, each of these groups exhibited relatively unique ornament styles.

The study, led by Jack Baker, an archaeology doctoral student at the University of Bordeaux, pointed out that these cultural associations do not always align with familial ties. Genetic analyses revealed that, in some cases, despite different ancestries, individuals shared cultural embellishments.

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"We've shown that you can have two [distinct] genetic groups of people who actually share a culture," said Baker, in a conversation with Scientific American.

<h2>Wearing beads: The practice</h2>

As per Science Alert, the practice of adorning oneself with beads traces back approximately 140,000 years, with shell beads discovered in modern-day Morocco. However, the widespread use of beads intensified around 45,000 years ago, marking a period when ornamental traditions proliferated across Europe.

"This is the moment when personal ornaments acquire a degree of diversity, enabling researchers to more precisely investigate their role as cultural markers," explained&nbsp;the researchers in their paper.

As part of their investigation, Baker and his team compiled records of hand-chiselled beads and pendants from 112 sites across Europe. Most of these trinkets were discovered in Gravettian dwellings, with some excavated from burial sites where DNA samples were collected.&nbsp;

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These ornaments, previously categorised under one culture, the Gravettian people, exhibited remarkable diversity when considered collectively. The researchers identified 134 different types of beads crafted from materials such as animal bones, teeth, shells, amber, and stone. Some resembled fishtails, while others took the form of owls.

Comparing ornaments across geographical distances revealed nine distinct cultural groups, each demonstrating unique preferences for specific bead types based on their locations.

Baker emphasised that these differences were crystalised in the artifacts found in graves, potentially serving as quick identifiers among people. However, the analysis also indicated fluid cultural boundaries, with neighbouring groups occasionally adopting each other's styles.

"The sense of belonging felt by all humans today is deeply rooted in our shared history and played an important role in determining how Gravettian people adorned themselves," concluded the team.

Archaeologist Peter Jordan lauded the study as a landmark, highlighting the importance of examining ancient artifacts and DNA in tandem to unveil intricate cultural behaviours and group relations.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

For millennia, humans have adorned themselves with personal ornaments. These serve as a connection to their communities and help in establishing a cultural identity that endures even after their lives, as proven by a recent archaeological find that points to multiple cultural groups among our ancient ancestors.

For millennia, humans have adorned themselves with personal ornaments. These serve as a connection to their communities and help in establishing a cultural identity that endures even after their lives, as proven by a recent archaeological find that points to multiple cultural groups among our ancient ancestors. Early humans A recent study examining thousands of pendants from the ice age in Europe, dating between 34,000 and 24,000 years ago, has revealed the presence of at least nine distinct cultural groups within the broader Gravettian population. As per a study published in Nature Human Behavior, each of these groups exhibited relatively unique ornament styles. The study, led by Jack Baker, an archaeology doctoral student at the University of Bordeaux, pointed out that these cultural associations do not always align with familial ties. Genetic analyses revealed that, in some cases, despite different ancestries, individuals shared cultural embellishments. Also read | 'Some things shouldn't breed': US based shelter lets jilted lovers 'neuter' their ex for Valentine's Day "We've shown that you can have two [distinct] genetic groups of people who actually share a culture," said Baker, in a conversation with Scientific American. Wearing beads: The practice As per Science Alert, the practice of adorning oneself with beads traces back approximately 140,000 years, with shell beads discovered in modern-day Morocco. However, the widespread use of beads intensified around 45,000 years ago, marking a period when ornamental traditions proliferated across Europe. "This is the moment when personal ornaments acquire a degree of diversity, enabling researchers to more precisely investigate their role as cultural markers," explained the researchers in their paper. As part of their investigation, Baker and his team compiled records of hand-chiselled beads and pendants from 112 sites across Europe. Most of these trinkets were discovered in Gravettian dwellings, with some excavated from burial sites where DNA samples were collected. Also read | Astronomers spot 18 black holes devouring stars in cosmic feast These ornaments, previously categorised under one culture, the Gravettian people, exhibited remarkable diversity when considered collectively. The researchers identified 134 different types of beads crafted from materials such as animal bones, teeth, shells, amber, and stone. Some resembled fishtails, while others took the form of owls. Comparing ornaments across geographical distances revealed nine distinct cultural groups, each demonstrating unique preferences for specific bead types based on their locations. Baker emphasised that these differences were crystalised in the artifacts found in graves, potentially serving as quick identifiers among people. However, the analysis also indicated fluid cultural boundaries, with neighbouring groups occasionally adopting each other's styles. "The sense of belonging felt by all humans today is deeply rooted in our shared history and played an important role in determining how Gravettian people adorned themselves," concluded the team. Archaeologist Peter Jordan lauded the study as a landmark, highlighting the importance of examining ancient artifacts and DNA in tandem to unveil intricate cultural behaviours and group relations. (With inputs from agencies)

Researchers find proof of at least 9 hidden cultural groups during Ice Age Europe

A cluster of lost cities has been uncovered by archaeologists in the Amazon rainforest, which housed at least 10,000 farmers nearly 2,000 years ago. 
 
Archaeologist Stephen Rostain, more than two decades ago, had for the first time noticed a series of earthen mounds and buried roads. 
 
However, at that time, “I wasn’t sure how it all fit together,” said Rostain, who was among the researchers who had for the first time reported about the finding of the lost cities in the journal Science on Thursday (Jan 11), reported the Associated Press. 
 
The recent mapping of the place, using laser-sensor technology, revealed that the sites will be part of the dense network of connecting roadways and settlements, which are hidden in the forested foothills of the Andes, which lasted nearly 1,000 years.

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Rostain, who carried out investigations at France’s National Center for Scientific Research, said, “It was a lost valley of cities. It’s incredible.”

<h2 lang="en-US">'Extremely complicated society' reflected in mapping: Researcher</h2>

The researchers discovered that, between about 500 BC and AD 300 to 600, the settlements were occupied by the Upano people – a period which is nearly contemporaneous with the Roman empire in Europe. 
 
Agricultural fields with drainage canals surrounded the ceremonial and residential buildings which were erected on more than 6,000 earthen mounds. The largest roads were stretched for 6-12 miles (10-20km) and were 33 feet (10 meters) wide. 
 
A study co-author at the same French institute, archaeologist Antoine Dorison said that although it is difficult to estimate the population, the site was earlier home to around 10,000 inhabitants. 
 
University of Florida archaeologist Michael Heckenberger, who was not a part of the study, said, “This shows a very dense occupation and an extremely complicated society. For the region, it’s really in a class of its own in terms of how early it is.” 
 
University of Exeter archaeologist Jose Iriarte said that at the time they would have needed an elaborate system of organised labour for building the roads as well as thousands of earthen mounds.

Watch:&nbsp;Scientists stunned as Himalayas get cooler despite global climate crisis

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“The Incas and Mayans built with stone, but people in Amazonia didn’t usually have stone available to build – they built with mud. It’s still an immense amount of labour,” said Iriarte, while speaking to the Associated Press. 
 
The Amazon is generally seen as a “pristine wilderness with only small groups of people. But recent discoveries have shown us how much more complex the past really is,” he said. 
 
“There’s always been an incredible diversity of people and settlements in the Amazon, not only one way to live. We’re just learning more about them,” Rostain added.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A cluster of lost cities has been uncovered by archaeologists in the Amazon rainforest, which housed at least 10,000 farmers nearly 2,000 years ago. Archaeologist Stephen Rostain, more than two decades ago, had for the first time noticed a series of earthen mounds and buried roads.

A cluster of lost cities has been uncovered by archaeologists in the Amazon rainforest, which housed at least 10,000 farmers nearly 2,000 years ago. Archaeologist Stephen Rostain, more than two decades ago, had for the first time noticed a series of earthen mounds and buried roads. However, at that time, “I wasn’t sure how it all fit together,” said Rostain, who was among the researchers who had for the first time reported about the finding of the lost cities in the journal Science on Thursday (Jan 11), reported the Associated Press. The recent mapping of the place, using laser-sensor technology, revealed that the sites will be part of the dense network of connecting roadways and settlements, which are hidden in the forested foothills of the Andes, which lasted nearly 1,000 years. Also read: Ecuador violence: 178 prison guards, staff held hostage by gangs Rostain, who carried out investigations at France’s National Center for Scientific Research, said, “It was a lost valley of cities. It’s incredible.” 'Extremely complicated society' reflected in mapping: Researcher The researchers discovered that, between about 500 BC and AD 300 to 600, the settlements were occupied by the Upano people – a period which is nearly contemporaneous with the Roman empire in Europe. Agricultural fields with drainage canals surrounded the ceremonial and residential buildings which were erected on more than 6,000 earthen mounds. The largest roads were stretched for 6-12 miles (10-20km) and were 33 feet (10 meters) wide. A study co-author at the same French institute, archaeologist Antoine Dorison said that although it is difficult to estimate the population, the site was earlier home to around 10,000 inhabitants. University of Florida archaeologist Michael Heckenberger, who was not a part of the study, said, “This shows a very dense occupation and an extremely complicated society. For the region, it’s really in a class of its own in terms of how early it is.” University of Exeter archaeologist Jose Iriarte said that at the time they would have needed an elaborate system of organised labour for building the roads as well as thousands of earthen mounds. Watch: Scientists stunned as Himalayas get cooler despite global climate crisis “The Incas and Mayans built with stone, but people in Amazonia didn’t usually have stone available to build – they built with mud. It’s still an immense amount of labour,” said Iriarte, while speaking to the Associated Press. The Amazon is generally seen as a “pristine wilderness with only small groups of people. But recent discoveries have shown us how much more complex the past really is,” he said. “There’s always been an incredible diversity of people and settlements in the Amazon, not only one way to live. We’re just learning more about them,” Rostain added. (With inputs from agencies)

Archaeologists uncover lost cities which existed 2,000 years ago in Ecuadorian Amazon

Most people get the ick from worms. These small, slimy creatures are no one's favourite. But what if they were as big as a cat? That would have made things much worse actually.

But in a groundbreaking discovery, scientists have unearthed the fossils of a previously unknown group of animal predators. The fossils have been discovered in North Greenland's Early Cambrian Sirius Passet fossil locality.&nbsp;

Named Timorebestia, meaning 'terror beasts' in Latin, these large creatures may represent some of the earliest carnivorous animals to inhabit the water more than 518 million years ago. The discovery sheds light on a previously unknown dynasty of predators.

<h2>Timorebestia</h2>

Timorebestia, as per the paper published in Science Advances, reached lengths of over 30cm. The giant worm sported fins along its body, had a distinctive head with long antennae, and formidable jaw structures inside its mouths.&nbsp;

These features, coupled with their swimming prowess, made them one of the largest predators in the Early Cambrian era, about half a billion years ago.

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Highlighting the significance of this discovery, senior author Dr Jakob Vinther from the University of Bristol said, "Timorebestia were giants of their day and would have been close to the top of the food chain. That makes it equivalent in importance to some of the top carnivores in modern oceans, such as sharks and seals back in the Cambrian period."

The Timorebestia is a close relative of arrow worms, minuscule predators of today, primarily feeding on tiny zooplankton.&nbsp;

The researchers found remnants of a common, swimming arthropod called Isoxys inside the fossilised digestive system of Timorebestia.&nbsp;

Isoxys, equipped with long protective spines, were a staple in the diet of Timorebestia, further emphasising their role at the top of the food chain.

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"They are very common at Sirius Passet and had long protective spines, pointing both forwards and backwards. However, they clearly didn't completely succeed in avoiding that fate, because Timorebestia munched on them in great quantities," said Morten Lunde Nielsen, a former Ph.D.&nbsp;student at Bristol.

As per the University of Bristol website, this groundbreaking find provides crucial insights into the evolution of jawed predators and their connections to ancient organisms.&nbsp;

"Timorebestia is a really significant find for understanding the evolution of arrow worms. Today, arrow worms have menacing bristles on the outside of their heads for catching prey, whereas Timorebestia had&nbsp;jaws inside its head," said Luke Parry from Oxford University.

The fossils discovered in Sirius Passet offer remarkable preservation, revealing anatomical details of the digestive system, muscle anatomy, and nervous systems of these ancient creatures, said Tae Yoon Park from the Korean Polar Research Institute, the other senior author and field expedition leader.

"We have found this preserved in Timorebestia and another fossil called Amiskwia. People have debated whether or not Amiskwia was closely related to arrow worms as part of their evolutionary stem lineage. The preservation of these unique ventral ganglia gives us a great deal more confidence in this hypothesis," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Most people get the ick from worms. These small, slimy creatures are no one's favourite. But what if they were as big as a cat? That would have made things much worse actually.

Most people get the ick from worms. These small, slimy creatures are no one's favourite. But what if they were as big as a cat? That would have made things much worse actually. But in a groundbreaking discovery, scientists have unearthed the fossils of a previously unknown group of animal predators. The fossils have been discovered in North Greenland's Early Cambrian Sirius Passet fossil locality. Named Timorebestia, meaning 'terror beasts' in Latin, these large creatures may represent some of the earliest carnivorous animals to inhabit the water more than 518 million years ago. The discovery sheds light on a previously unknown dynasty of predators. Timorebestia Timorebestia, as per the paper published in Science Advances, reached lengths of over 30cm. The giant worm sported fins along its body, had a distinctive head with long antennae, and formidable jaw structures inside its mouths. These features, coupled with their swimming prowess, made them one of the largest predators in the Early Cambrian era, about half a billion years ago. Also read | Debate settled: Teenage T. Rex skulls unearthed in 1942 belonged to a different dinosaur species Highlighting the significance of this discovery, senior author Dr Jakob Vinther from the University of Bristol said, "Timorebestia were giants of their day and would have been close to the top of the food chain. That makes it equivalent in importance to some of the top carnivores in modern oceans, such as sharks and seals back in the Cambrian period." The Timorebestia is a close relative of arrow worms, minuscule predators of today, primarily feeding on tiny zooplankton. The researchers found remnants of a common, swimming arthropod called Isoxys inside the fossilised digestive system of Timorebestia. Isoxys, equipped with long protective spines, were a staple in the diet of Timorebestia, further emphasising their role at the top of the food chain. Also read | A 3D-printed chip mimics medicine’s effect on human patient’s body, could end need for animal testing "They are very common at Sirius Passet and had long protective spines, pointing both forwards and backwards. However, they clearly didn't completely succeed in avoiding that fate, because Timorebestia munched on them in great quantities," said Morten Lunde Nielsen, a former Ph.D. student at Bristol. As per the University of Bristol website, this groundbreaking find provides crucial insights into the evolution of jawed predators and their connections to ancient organisms. "Timorebestia is a really significant find for understanding the evolution of arrow worms. Today, arrow worms have menacing bristles on the outside of their heads for catching prey, whereas Timorebestia had jaws inside its head," said Luke Parry from Oxford University. The fossils discovered in Sirius Passet offer remarkable preservation, revealing anatomical details of the digestive system, muscle anatomy, and nervous systems of these ancient creatures, said Tae Yoon Park from the Korean Polar Research Institute, the other senior author and field expedition leader. "We have found this preserved in Timorebestia and another fossil called Amiskwia. People have debated whether or not Amiskwia was closely related to arrow worms as part of their evolutionary stem lineage. The preservation of these unique ventral ganglia gives us a great deal more confidence in this hypothesis," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Terror Beasts: 500-million-year old 'giant' predator worms unearthed in Greenland 

Researchers in northern Germany have unearthed a 'curse tablet,' which is nothing short of a symbol of love and jealousy in ancient times.&nbsp;

On the cryptic artefact that dates back to the 15th century, there's a curse that researchers believe was meant to break up a couple.&nbsp;

<h2>The curse tablet</h2>

The medieval "curse tablet" was found rolled up and "inconspicuous," hidden beneath a latrine at a construction site in Rostock, a coastal city where construction for a town hall building was underway.

Upon unrolling the package, they found a piece of metal, a small slab made of lead that had a handwritten message on it. The Gothic script, were words hard to see with the naked eye.

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According to archaeologists, it read: "sathanas taleke belzebuk hinrik berith," which they've intercepted as a curse directed at a woman named Taleke and a certain Hinrik (Heinrich).

The curse they said was "obviously supposed to be dealing with the devils Satan, Beelzebub and Berith".

Attempting to decipher the reason behind the summoning of devilish forces, the researchers postulate, "Did someone want to break up Taleke and Heinrich's relationship? Was this about spurned love and jealousy, should someone be put out of the way?"

<h2>What is a curse tablet?</h2>

Curse tablets, as the name suggests, were a means to curse or hex someone. The statement on the ROSTOCK website says that even in ancient times, curse tablets were placed in locations where they were difficult or impossible to find.&nbsp;

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"The cursed ones shouldn't find out about the impending disaster," it said, adding, "The damaging magic could therefore unfold in peace."

As per the excavation leader Dr. Jörg Ansorge "Curse tablets are actually known from ancient times in the Greek and Roman regions, i.e. from the period from 800 BC to 600 AD. Our discovery, on the other hand, can be dated to the 15th century. This is really a very special find." Ansorge also said that similar finds from the Middle Ages were unknown.

(With inputs from agencies)

Researchers in northern Germany have unearthed a 'curse tablet,' which is nothing short of a symbol of love and jealousy in ancient times. On the cryptic artefact that dates back to the 15th century, there's a curse that researchers believe was meant to break up a couple.

Researchers in northern Germany have unearthed a 'curse tablet,' which is nothing short of a symbol of love and jealousy in ancient times. On the cryptic artefact that dates back to the 15th century, there's a curse that researchers believe was meant to break up a couple. The curse tablet The medieval "curse tablet" was found rolled up and "inconspicuous," hidden beneath a latrine at a construction site in Rostock, a coastal city where construction for a town hall building was underway. Upon unrolling the package, they found a piece of metal, a small slab made of lead that had a handwritten message on it. The Gothic script, were words hard to see with the naked eye. Also read | Database behind AI-image generators found hiding a dark secret: Child sexual abuse content According to archaeologists, it read: "sathanas taleke belzebuk hinrik berith," which they've intercepted as a curse directed at a woman named Taleke and a certain Hinrik (Heinrich). The curse they said was "obviously supposed to be dealing with the devils Satan, Beelzebub and Berith". Attempting to decipher the reason behind the summoning of devilish forces, the researchers postulate, "Did someone want to break up Taleke and Heinrich's relationship? Was this about spurned love and jealousy, should someone be put out of the way?" What is a curse tablet? Curse tablets, as the name suggests, were a means to curse or hex someone. The statement on the ROSTOCK website says that even in ancient times, curse tablets were placed in locations where they were difficult or impossible to find. Also read | Scientists spot recent volcanic activity on Earth’s neighbour Mars "The cursed ones shouldn't find out about the impending disaster," it said, adding, "The damaging magic could therefore unfold in peace." As per the excavation leader Dr. Jörg Ansorge "Curse tablets are actually known from ancient times in the Greek and Roman regions, i.e. from the period from 800 BC to 600 AD. Our discovery, on the other hand, can be dated to the 15th century. This is really a very special find." Ansorge also said that similar finds from the Middle Ages were unknown. (With inputs from agencies)

Love, hexes, and devilish forces: Researchers unearth 'curse tablet,' a symbol of jealousy in ancient times 

Throughout history, faith has emerged as a universal thread woven through the tapestry of human experience. It manifests itself in a myriad of forms across cultures and beliefs. In India's Madhya Pradesh, faith and belief turned out to be caretakers of important natural relics from the past: dinosaur eggs.

<h2>Stone balls or something else?</h2>

In Madhya Pradesh's Dhar, the Mandaloi family has been worshipping palm-sized "stone balls" for generations.&nbsp;

A resident of the Padlya Village, 41-year-old Vesta Mandaloi was following in his forefathers' footsteps, worshipping these balls as "Kakar Bhairav" — or lord of the land.&nbsp;

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As per a Times Of India report, Vesta and his family believed that the stone balls were a 'Kuldevta' or a totem that would protect their farmland and cattle from problems and misfortunes. Like the Mandaloi family, others in Dhar and in adjoining areas too had similar totems they worshipped for protection.

However, a team of researchers revealed that these balls turned out to be something else. Experts from Lucknow's Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences during a field visit determined that these stone ball totems were actually dinosaur eggs from a bygone era.&nbsp;

After an analysis, they came to the conclusion that these balls were fossilised eggs of the Titanosaurs species of dinosaurs.

<h2>Titanosaurs</h2>

It is the first Indian dinosaur to be named and properly described. The species&nbsp;was recorded for the first time in 1877, and its name means 'titanic lizard'. Titanosaur&nbsp;is among the largest dinosaurs to have roamed the planet. As per estimates, the species roamed the region around 70 million years ago, during the Cretaceous period.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/india-scientists-discover-dinosaur-nests-265-fossilised-eggs-in-madhya-pradeshs-narmada-valley-555318">India: Scientists discover dinosaur nests, 265 fossilised eggs in Madhya Pradesh’s Narmada Valley</a>

Earlier this year, more than 250 eggs of the titanic lizard that once roamed the Narmada valley were discovered in MP's Dhar district.

In January, a study, published in the peer-reviewed scientific journal PLOS One detailed field research carried out by a team of researchers from Delhi University (DU) and the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) in Bhopal. They had uncovered 92 nesting sites containing 256 fossil eggs belonging to titanosaurs.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Throughout history, faith has emerged as a universal thread woven through the tapestry of human experience. It manifests itself in a myriad of forms across cultures and beliefs.

Throughout history, faith has emerged as a universal thread woven through the tapestry of human experience. It manifests itself in a myriad of forms across cultures and beliefs. In India's Madhya Pradesh, faith and belief turned out to be caretakers of important natural relics from the past: dinosaur eggs. Stone balls or something else? In Madhya Pradesh's Dhar, the Mandaloi family has been worshipping palm-sized "stone balls" for generations. A resident of the Padlya Village, 41-year-old Vesta Mandaloi was following in his forefathers' footsteps, worshipping these balls as "Kakar Bhairav" — or lord of the land. Also read | Chum salmon are breeding in Arctic, and it is 'an ominous sign’ for humanity As per a Times Of India report, Vesta and his family believed that the stone balls were a 'Kuldevta' or a totem that would protect their farmland and cattle from problems and misfortunes. Like the Mandaloi family, others in Dhar and in adjoining areas too had similar totems they worshipped for protection. However, a team of researchers revealed that these balls turned out to be something else. Experts from Lucknow's Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences during a field visit determined that these stone ball totems were actually dinosaur eggs from a bygone era. After an analysis, they came to the conclusion that these balls were fossilised eggs of the Titanosaurs species of dinosaurs. Titanosaurs It is the first Indian dinosaur to be named and properly described. The species was recorded for the first time in 1877, and its name means 'titanic lizard'. Titanosaur is among the largest dinosaurs to have roamed the planet. As per estimates, the species roamed the region around 70 million years ago, during the Cretaceous period. Also read | India: Scientists discover dinosaur nests, 265 fossilised eggs in Madhya Pradesh’s Narmada Valley Earlier this year, more than 250 eggs of the titanic lizard that once roamed the Narmada valley were discovered in MP's Dhar district. In January, a study, published in the peer-reviewed scientific journal PLOS One detailed field research carried out by a team of researchers from Delhi University (DU) and the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) in Bhopal. They had uncovered 92 nesting sites containing 256 fossil eggs belonging to titanosaurs. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Madhya Pradesh family's sacred totem 'kuldevta' turns out to be dinosaur egg

Once upon a time, 72 million years ago, the Pacific seas were terrorised by a giant monster, called the "blue dragon".

As per research published in the Journal of Systematic Paleontology, researchers have named the monster Wakayama Soryu, which means Blue Dragon.

<h2>Mind-blowing discovery</h2>

The apex predator was a mosasaur, an extinct, large marine reptile from the Late Cretaceous period. It has been named after Japan's Wakayama Prefecture&nbsp;where its fossil was found.

University of Cincinnati Associate Professor Takuya Konishi, along with a team of international co-authors, described the amazing discovery in the Palaeontology journal.

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Explaining the name, Konishi&nbsp;in a statement on the University of Cincinnati website&nbsp;said: "In China, dragons make thunder and live in the sky. They became aquatic in Japanese mythology."

The nearly complete fossil of the mosasaur was discovered by co-author Akihiro Misaki back in 2006.&nbsp;

At the time, Misaki was looking for fossils of invertebrates called ammonites&nbsp;when he stumbled upon an intriguing dark fossil in the sandstone.

The Wakayama Soryu fossil specimen is the most complete skeleton of a mosasaur ever found in Japan or the northwestern Pacific, said Konishi.&nbsp;

"In this case, it was nearly the entire specimen, which was astounding," said Konishi.

<h2>Wakayama Soryu: What it looked like</h2>

The apex predator, which haunted prehistoric waters, had unique features which made simple classification difficult.&nbsp;

As per researchers, it had a crocodile-like head and enormous paddle-shaped flippers. Its rear flippers were bigger than the front ones. Researchers speculate that "the large front fins might have helped with rapid manoeuvring, while its large rear fins might have provided pitch to dive or surface."&nbsp;

They also presume that, like other mosasaurs, the blue dragon's tail would have generated powerful and fast acceleration as it hunted fish and was used for propulsion.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/ancient-fossil-shows-teenager-tyrannosaur-feasted-on-two-baby-dinos-before-dying-study-668463">As a teenager, the tyrannosaur only ate baby dinosaurs, and a fossil is proof</a>

"It’s a question just how all five of these hydrodynamic surfaces were used. Which were for steering? Which for propulsion?" said Konishi.

"It opens a whole can of worms that challenges our understanding of how mosasaurs swim," he remarked.

Konishi, who has been studying mosasaurs for 15 years, said that the apex predator had a nearly binocular vision which made it a lethal hunter. The monstrous creature also had a dorsal fin similar to the great white shark and was as big as the modern predator — more than five feet long.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Once upon a time, 72 million years ago, the Pacific seas were terrorised by a giant monster, called the "blue dragon". As per research published in the Journal of Systematic Paleontology, researchers have named the monster Wakayama Soryu, which means Blue Dragon.

Once upon a time, 72 million years ago, the Pacific seas were terrorised by a giant monster, called the "blue dragon". As per research published in the Journal of Systematic Paleontology, researchers have named the monster Wakayama Soryu, which means Blue Dragon. Mind-blowing discovery The apex predator was a mosasaur, an extinct, large marine reptile from the Late Cretaceous period. It has been named after Japan's Wakayama Prefecture where its fossil was found. University of Cincinnati Associate Professor Takuya Konishi, along with a team of international co-authors, described the amazing discovery in the Palaeontology journal. Also read | Explained | Let's 'Rewind 2023' to medical breakthroughs that gave the world hope Explaining the name, Konishi in a statement on the University of Cincinnati website said: "In China, dragons make thunder and live in the sky. They became aquatic in Japanese mythology." The nearly complete fossil of the mosasaur was discovered by co-author Akihiro Misaki back in 2006. At the time, Misaki was looking for fossils of invertebrates called ammonites when he stumbled upon an intriguing dark fossil in the sandstone. The Wakayama Soryu fossil specimen is the most complete skeleton of a mosasaur ever found in Japan or the northwestern Pacific, said Konishi. "In this case, it was nearly the entire specimen, which was astounding," said Konishi. Wakayama Soryu: What it looked like The apex predator, which haunted prehistoric waters, had unique features which made simple classification difficult. As per researchers, it had a crocodile-like head and enormous paddle-shaped flippers. Its rear flippers were bigger than the front ones. Researchers speculate that "the large front fins might have helped with rapid manoeuvring, while its large rear fins might have provided pitch to dive or surface." They also presume that, like other mosasaurs, the blue dragon's tail would have generated powerful and fast acceleration as it hunted fish and was used for propulsion. Also read | As a teenager, the tyrannosaur only ate baby dinosaurs, and a fossil is proof "It’s a question just how all five of these hydrodynamic surfaces were used. Which were for steering? Which for propulsion?" said Konishi. "It opens a whole can of worms that challenges our understanding of how mosasaurs swim," he remarked. Konishi, who has been studying mosasaurs for 15 years, said that the apex predator had a nearly binocular vision which made it a lethal hunter. The monstrous creature also had a dorsal fin similar to the great white shark and was as big as the modern predator — more than five feet long. (With inputs from agencies)

A giant blue dragon mosasaur roamed the Pacific waters 72 million years ago

Almost 100 years ago, in Germany, a curious yet heart-warming discovery was made: a double burial, with a woman and an infant.

The discovery was made in 1934, and now 89 years later, scientists have uncovered new information about the grave occupants.

<h2>Buried but not forgotten</h2>

In 1934, a construction worker at the spa gardens in Bad Dürrenberg, eastern Germany, found a grave that contained an adult woman and an infant.&nbsp;

The grave, as per estimates, dates back 9,000 years to 7000-6800 BCE.&nbsp;

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Their relationship remained a mystery&nbsp;at the time and it was&nbsp;believed that the two were a mother-son duo.&nbsp;

However, genetic analysis has&nbsp;now found that the two did share a relationship, but an extended one.&nbsp;

As per a research article published as a chapter in the conference proceedings "Propylaeum," the woman was a fourth or fifth-degree relative to the infant — a boy. The boy must've been buried decades after his (great-) great-great-great-grandmother.

<h2>A shaman</h2>

Based on the unusual objects buried with them, it was established that the adult woman must have been a shaman.

"We sequenced the entire genome of this woman who lived 9,000 years ago," article co-author, Wolfgang Haak, told Live Science.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/this-giant-blue-dragon-monster-haunted-prehistoric-waters-of-the-pacific-ocean-72-million-years-ago-669185">A giant blue dragon mosasaur roamed the Pacific waters 72 million years ago</a>

Haak, the group leader for the Department of Archaeogenetics at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Germany said: "The Mesolithic woman from Bad Dürrenberg carries a genetic profile that is typical of Western European hunter-gatherers, a population which — as the name suggests — occupied much of central and western Europe at the end of the Upper Palaeolithic and early Holocene, so roughly after 14000 [B.C.]."

As per a statement, analysis has revealed that the woman must have been 30 to 40 years old when she died. She was of slender build and roughly 5t,1" (1.55 meters) tall.

"She had darker hair and skin colour than modern-day Europeans, and most likely lighter, bluish eyes," said Haak, adding, "These features are common in Western European hunter-gatherers."

(With inputs from agencies)

Almost 100 years ago, in Germany, a curious yet heart-warming discovery was made: a double burial, with a woman and an infant. The discovery was made in 1934, and now 89 years later, scientists have uncovered new information about the grave occupants.

Almost 100 years ago, in Germany, a curious yet heart-warming discovery was made: a double burial, with a woman and an infant. The discovery was made in 1934, and now 89 years later, scientists have uncovered new information about the grave occupants. Buried but not forgotten In 1934, a construction worker at the spa gardens in Bad Dürrenberg, eastern Germany, found a grave that contained an adult woman and an infant. The grave, as per estimates, dates back 9,000 years to 7000-6800 BCE. Also read | Killer instinct: Cats kill more than 2,000 species globally, trigger conservation concern Their relationship remained a mystery at the time and it was believed that the two were a mother-son duo. However, genetic analysis has now found that the two did share a relationship, but an extended one. As per a research article published as a chapter in the conference proceedings "Propylaeum," the woman was a fourth or fifth-degree relative to the infant — a boy. The boy must've been buried decades after his (great-) great-great-great-grandmother. A shaman Based on the unusual objects buried with them, it was established that the adult woman must have been a shaman. "We sequenced the entire genome of this woman who lived 9,000 years ago," article co-author, Wolfgang Haak, told Live Science. Also read | A giant blue dragon mosasaur roamed the Pacific waters 72 million years ago Haak, the group leader for the Department of Archaeogenetics at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Germany said: "The Mesolithic woman from Bad Dürrenberg carries a genetic profile that is typical of Western European hunter-gatherers, a population which — as the name suggests — occupied much of central and western Europe at the end of the Upper Palaeolithic and early Holocene, so roughly after 14000 [B.C.]." As per a statement, analysis has revealed that the woman must have been 30 to 40 years old when she died. She was of slender build and roughly 5t,1" (1.55 meters) tall. "She had darker hair and skin colour than modern-day Europeans, and most likely lighter, bluish eyes," said Haak, adding, "These features are common in Western European hunter-gatherers." (With inputs from agencies)

89-yr-old mystery is solved. An infant was buried with his 4th-great-grandmother 9,000 years ago

In a major discovery, twin temples which were built on top of one another were unearthed by archaeologists in Iraq. The newer temple, which was&nbsp;reportedly built in the Hellenistic era and dates back to the fourth century BC, was said to be linked to Alexander the Great. 
 
Inside the temple, the archaeologists found a fired brick which had an Aramaic and Greek inscription, that referred to "the giver of two brothers", which was seen as a possible reference made to the Macedonian king, who had ruled for 13 years from 336 BC&nbsp;to 323 BC and conquered much of the known world. 
 
The archaeologists, who are associated with the British Museum in London, found the older temple during excavations being carried out in Girsu, which is a Sumerian city and is also called Tello in southeastern Iraq. 
 
The excavations were being carried out as part of the museum's ongoing venture called The Girsu Project which focuses on gathering more information about the storied history of the city. 
 
The remnants of the older Sumerian temple were discovered buried "on the exact same spot" as the newer temple which was dedicated to the "Greek god Hercules and his Sumerian equivalent, the hero-god Ningirsu [also known as Ninurta]," said Sebastien Rey, an archaeologist and curator of Ancient Mesopotamia at the British Museum, who headed the excavation, while responding to Live Science.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/archaeologists-hint-indonesias-giant-hidden-pyramid-likely-to-be-the-oldest-in-the-world-654812">Archaeologists hint Indonesia's giant hidden pyramid likely to be the oldest in the world</a>

The researchers said that the temple was built on the same site where one stood 1,500 years earlier and it was no coincidence. They added that the site must have some significance for the people of Mesopotamia. 
 
"It shows that the inhabitants of Babylonia in the [fourth] century BC&nbsp;had a vast knowledge of their history. The legacy of the Sumerians was still very vibrant,” said Rey.

<h2>Inscription of Zeus on the coin</h2>

The archaeologists, while exploring the dual temple site, discovered a silver drachm (an ancient Greek coin) which was buried underneath an altar or shrine, along with a brick with the two brothers' inscription. 
 
"The inscription is very interesting because it mentions an enigmatic Babylonian name written in Greek and Aramaic," said Rey. "The name 'Adadnadinakhe,' which means 'Adad, the giver of brothers,' was clearly chosen as a ceremonial title on account of its archaizing tone and symbolic connotations. All the evidence points to the fact that the name was extraordinarily rare,” he added.

Watch:&nbsp;Peru archaeologists unearth 1,000-year-old mummies of children in Lima

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/peru-archaeologists-unearth-1000-year-old-mummies-of-children-in-lima-661772/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The inscription found appeared to be that of Zeus, the Greek sky god, who has been a symbol of a lightning bolt and an eagle. The two symbols were found on the coin, which is likely to have been struck in Babylon "under Alexander the Great's authority," said Rey. 
 
"It shows Hercules in a youthful, clean-shaven portrait that strongly recalls conventional representations of Alexander on one side, with Zeus on the other,” he added. 
 
Zeus also "famously acknowledged Alexander as his son through the agency of the Ammon oracle,” he added. "He became quite literally the 'giver of brothers' because he affirmed a fraternal bond between Alexander and Heracles,” said Rey.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a major discovery, twin temples which were built on top of one another were unearthed by archaeologists in Iraq. The newer temple, which was reportedly built in the Hellenistic era and dates back to the fourth century BC, was said to be linked to Alexander the Great.

In a major discovery, twin temples which were built on top of one another were unearthed by archaeologists in Iraq. The newer temple, which was reportedly built in the Hellenistic era and dates back to the fourth century BC, was said to be linked to Alexander the Great. Inside the temple, the archaeologists found a fired brick which had an Aramaic and Greek inscription, that referred to "the giver of two brothers", which was seen as a possible reference made to the Macedonian king, who had ruled for 13 years from 336 BC to 323 BC and conquered much of the known world. The archaeologists, who are associated with the British Museum in London, found the older temple during excavations being carried out in Girsu, which is a Sumerian city and is also called Tello in southeastern Iraq. The excavations were being carried out as part of the museum's ongoing venture called The Girsu Project which focuses on gathering more information about the storied history of the city. The remnants of the older Sumerian temple were discovered buried "on the exact same spot" as the newer temple which was dedicated to the "Greek god Hercules and his Sumerian equivalent, the hero-god Ningirsu [also known as Ninurta]," said Sebastien Rey, an archaeologist and curator of Ancient Mesopotamia at the British Museum, who headed the excavation, while responding to Live Science. Also read: Archaeologists hint Indonesia's giant hidden pyramid likely to be the oldest in the world The researchers said that the temple was built on the same site where one stood 1,500 years earlier and it was no coincidence. They added that the site must have some significance for the people of Mesopotamia. "It shows that the inhabitants of Babylonia in the [fourth] century BC had a vast knowledge of their history. The legacy of the Sumerians was still very vibrant,” said Rey. Inscription of Zeus on the coin The archaeologists, while exploring the dual temple site, discovered a silver drachm (an ancient Greek coin) which was buried underneath an altar or shrine, along with a brick with the two brothers' inscription. "The inscription is very interesting because it mentions an enigmatic Babylonian name written in Greek and Aramaic," said Rey. "The name 'Adadnadinakhe,' which means 'Adad, the giver of brothers,' was clearly chosen as a ceremonial title on account of its archaizing tone and symbolic connotations. All the evidence points to the fact that the name was extraordinarily rare,” he added. Watch: Peru archaeologists unearth 1,000-year-old mummies of children in Lima The inscription found appeared to be that of Zeus, the Greek sky god, who has been a symbol of a lightning bolt and an eagle. The two symbols were found on the coin, which is likely to have been struck in Babylon "under Alexander the Great's authority," said Rey. "It shows Hercules in a youthful, clean-shaven portrait that strongly recalls conventional representations of Alexander on one side, with Zeus on the other,” he added. Zeus also "famously acknowledged Alexander as his son through the agency of the Ammon oracle,” he added. "He became quite literally the 'giver of brothers' because he affirmed a fraternal bond between Alexander and Heracles,” said Rey. (With inputs from agencies)

Twin temples linked to Hercules and Alexander the Great discovered on top of each other in Iraq

Back in June of this year, a team of researchers made sensational claims about a small-brained ancient hominid known as Homo naledi. The alleged discovery by the research team led by Professor Lee Berger of the University of Witwatersrand excited the scientific community to no end.&nbsp;

The findings, if proven accurate, could overturn much of what we know about human evolution. However, a recent paper has ridiculed the "discovery".&nbsp;

<h2>What the team claimed to have discovered</h2>

Dr Berger and his team claimed to have found evidence that the long-extinct species buried its dead and decorated their graves with abstract markings.

Given that the species had a brain no larger than a chimpanzee's, this finding at the time suggested intelligence similar to modern humans.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/not-homo-sapiens-but-this-extinct-human-species-buried-their-dead-first-601963">Not homo sapiens but this extinct human species buried their dead first</a>

This could be the oldest evidence of burials by the human species. The discovery as reported by the team was made in South Africa's Rising Star Cave System.

<h2>New research rebuts Berger's findings</h2>

A new study has pooh-poohed the Homo naledi-mania and suggests that the small-brained human ancestors may have nothing to do with the burials or marking of graves.

The research which has been published in the Journal of Human Evolution suggests that instead of it being chalked up to a deliberate disposal of the dead, some natural processes may explain the findings better.

Researchers from Spain and Australia suggest that things like a natural death trap or the bones being transported inside the narrow cave via flowing or flood waters may be a better explanation. According to them, an ancient member of the species may also have carried the remains into the cave or they could be there because of carnivore activity.

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To back their hypothesis, they cite geological, taphonomic and paleontological evidence.

They also say that the caves where the bones of more than 15 Homo naledi individuals representing all age groups were found were too unreachable. This meant that other researchers could not enter the caves and verify Berger's findings.

It also pours cold water on the alleged centuries-old engravings and says that Berger's teams have used any scientific methods to date them. They conclude that the Rising Star team has built a "persuasive discourse" which is "misleading" and that "they do not test their hypothesis but selectively report the evidence that supports their preferred scenario."

(With inputs from agencies)

Back in June of this year, a team of researchers made sensational claims about a small-brained ancient hominid known as Homo naledi. The alleged discovery by the research team led by Professor Lee Berger of the University of Witwatersrand excited the scientific community to no end.

Back in June of this year, a team of researchers made sensational claims about a small-brained ancient hominid known as Homo naledi. The alleged discovery by the research team led by Professor Lee Berger of the University of Witwatersrand excited the scientific community to no end. The findings, if proven accurate, could overturn much of what we know about human evolution. However, a recent paper has ridiculed the "discovery". What the team claimed to have discovered Dr Berger and his team claimed to have found evidence that the long-extinct species buried its dead and decorated their graves with abstract markings. Given that the species had a brain no larger than a chimpanzee's, this finding at the time suggested intelligence similar to modern humans. Also read | Not homo sapiens but this extinct human species buried their dead first This could be the oldest evidence of burials by the human species. The discovery as reported by the team was made in South Africa's Rising Star Cave System. New research rebuts Berger's findings A new study has pooh-poohed the Homo naledi-mania and suggests that the small-brained human ancestors may have nothing to do with the burials or marking of graves. The research which has been published in the Journal of Human Evolution suggests that instead of it being chalked up to a deliberate disposal of the dead, some natural processes may explain the findings better. Researchers from Spain and Australia suggest that things like a natural death trap or the bones being transported inside the narrow cave via flowing or flood waters may be a better explanation. According to them, an ancient member of the species may also have carried the remains into the cave or they could be there because of carnivore activity. Also read | Trouble in space: Soaring costs of NASA's Mars Sample Return Mission risk other significant projects To back their hypothesis, they cite geological, taphonomic and paleontological evidence. They also say that the caves where the bones of more than 15 Homo naledi individuals representing all age groups were found were too unreachable. This meant that other researchers could not enter the caves and verify Berger's findings. It also pours cold water on the alleged centuries-old engravings and says that Berger's teams have used any scientific methods to date them. They conclude that the Rising Star team has built a "persuasive discourse" which is "misleading" and that "they do not test their hypothesis but selectively report the evidence that supports their preferred scenario." (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists pooh-pooh claims that extinct ancient hominid 'Homo naledi' buried its dead

A rare discovery of an ovarian tumour was made by archaeologists while excavating an ancient Egyptian cemetery. The tumour was present in the pelvis of an Egyptian woman who was buried more than three millennia ago. 
 
The tumour, which was a bony mass and included two teeth, is being seen as teratoma's oldest known example. Teratoma is a rare type of tumour which typically grows in testicles or ovaries. 
 
As per the Cleveland Clinic, a teratoma can be malignant or benign, and usually, it is filled with various tissues like hair, teeth, muscle or bone. 
 
Teratomas can lead to swelling and cause pain and can even trigger infection if ruptured. In today's time, the mass gets removed through a typical treatment.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/worlds-oldest-known-burial-site-was-not-created-by-humans-but-654809">World's oldest known burial site was not created by humans but...</a>

Till now, archaeologists have found only four archaeological examples of teratomas, out of which three were in Europe and one was found in Peru. The latest teratoma discovered in the New Kingdom period cemetery in Amarna, Egypt, is the fifth archaeological case published so far.

<h2>Oldest-ever teratoma found in Africa, first such case for the continent</h2>

This is also the oldest known example of a teratoma and the first such case discovered in Africa. The archaeologists investigated four large cemeteries, related to Amarna. 
 
In one of the tombs present in the North Desert Cemetery, which consisted of a burial chamber and a shaft, the skeleton of a young woman was found by the researchers. 
 
The skeleton was wrapped in a plant fibre mat and it was buried along with various grave goods, which included a deity related to childbirth, a ring decorated with the figure of Bes, fertility and protection. 
 
While excavating, the archaeologists came across a bony mass in the woman's pelvis which had deformed teeth in two depressions. 
 
Southern Illinois University Carbondale's bioarchaeologist Gretchen Dabbs published the tumour's discovery in the International Journal of Paleopathology.

WATCH |&nbsp;Israel-Palestine War: Dozens buried in a mass grave in Gaza city

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After ruling out other diagnoses, the bioarchaeologist and his team suggested that the presence of teeth within the pelvic region of the woman suggested that it was an ovarian teratoma. 
 
The Bes ring hinted at the teratoma being symptomatic since the "magico-medical" object was kept in the left hand of the woman, which was folded across the woman's lap above the teratoma. 
 
This meant that the woman "was attempting to invoke Bes to protect her from pain or other symptoms, or aid in her attempts to conceive and birth a child," the researchers wrote in their study. 
 
"By 18-21 years, this individual probably would have been someone's wife," said Dabbs, while speaking to Live Science, but added that there is also "little doubt she was working in some fashion."

(With inputs from agencies)

A rare discovery of an ovarian tumour was made by archaeologists while excavating an ancient Egyptian cemetery. The tumour was present in the pelvis of an Egyptian woman who was buried more than three millennia ago.

A rare discovery of an ovarian tumour was made by archaeologists while excavating an ancient Egyptian cemetery. The tumour was present in the pelvis of an Egyptian woman who was buried more than three millennia ago. The tumour, which was a bony mass and included two teeth, is being seen as teratoma's oldest known example. Teratoma is a rare type of tumour which typically grows in testicles or ovaries. As per the Cleveland Clinic, a teratoma can be malignant or benign, and usually, it is filled with various tissues like hair, teeth, muscle or bone. Teratomas can lead to swelling and cause pain and can even trigger infection if ruptured. In today's time, the mass gets removed through a typical treatment. ALSO READ | World's oldest known burial site was not created by humans but... Till now, archaeologists have found only four archaeological examples of teratomas, out of which three were in Europe and one was found in Peru. The latest teratoma discovered in the New Kingdom period cemetery in Amarna, Egypt, is the fifth archaeological case published so far. Oldest-ever teratoma found in Africa, first such case for the continent This is also the oldest known example of a teratoma and the first such case discovered in Africa. The archaeologists investigated four large cemeteries, related to Amarna. In one of the tombs present in the North Desert Cemetery, which consisted of a burial chamber and a shaft, the skeleton of a young woman was found by the researchers. The skeleton was wrapped in a plant fibre mat and it was buried along with various grave goods, which included a deity related to childbirth, a ring decorated with the figure of Bes, fertility and protection. While excavating, the archaeologists came across a bony mass in the woman's pelvis which had deformed teeth in two depressions. Southern Illinois University Carbondale's bioarchaeologist Gretchen Dabbs published the tumour's discovery in the International Journal of Paleopathology. WATCH | Israel-Palestine War: Dozens buried in a mass grave in Gaza city After ruling out other diagnoses, the bioarchaeologist and his team suggested that the presence of teeth within the pelvic region of the woman suggested that it was an ovarian teratoma. The Bes ring hinted at the teratoma being symptomatic since the "magico-medical" object was kept in the left hand of the woman, which was folded across the woman's lap above the teratoma. This meant that the woman "was attempting to invoke Bes to protect her from pain or other symptoms, or aid in her attempts to conceive and birth a child," the researchers wrote in their study. "By 18-21 years, this individual probably would have been someone's wife," said Dabbs, while speaking to Live Science, but added that there is also "little doubt she was working in some fashion." (With inputs from agencies)

Rare discovery: Tumour with teeth found in 3,000-year-old Egyptian burial

The archaeologists have stated that a giant pyramid which is hidden in an underground hillside in Indonesia is much older than Egypt's Giza Pyramids or England's Stonehenge and is likely to compete with the oldest megalithic structures ever created by humans. 
 
This megalithic site in Indonesia is called Gunung Padang. Indonesia's hillside, which is filled with ancient stone structures and is on the island of West Java, is considered sacred by locals, who call it a 'punden berundak' which means a stepped pyramid for the terraces that slowly move towards its peak. 
 
The site's surface has barely been brushed by the archaeologists, and already it is shaping up to become a "remarkable testament" to human ingenuity. 
 
As per experts, Gunung Padang is the world's oldest pyramidal structure and was built atop an extinct volcano before civilisations existed and humans delved into agriculture.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/study-reveals-why-some-people-have-more-neanderthal-dna-than-others-648706">Why do some people have more Neanderthal DNA than others? Scientists now have an explanation</a>

As per new data found by scientists in Indonesia, its interior hides large open chambers which contain many unknown elements. 
 
An extensive analysis of Gunung Padang, which is known as the 'mountain of enlightenment' in the local language, has suggested that the natural hill of lava was "meticulously sculpted" by an ancient civilization into the core of a pyramid-like structure after a long time. 
 
The site's first radiocarbon dating indicated that initial construction started in the last glacial period, which was more than 27,000 years ago. The results of Gunung Padang's current study have come after carrying out many years of careful analysis.

<h2>Archaeologists decode the complex structure of Gunung Padang</h2>

In the years between 2011 and 2015, a variety of techniques like ground penetrating radars, core drilling and subsurface imaging were used by a team of archaeologists, geophysicists and geologists, headed by geologist Danny Hilman Natawidjaja at Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency to investigate the cultural heritage site. 
 
It was found by Natawidjaja and other researchers that Gunung Padang was created in complex and sophisticated stages and its deepest part lies 30 meters down.

WATCH |&nbsp;Troubling discovery baffles scientists

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The structure's core part was probably created between 25,000 and 14,000 BCE, however, it was later abandoned for several millennia. 
 
"The builders of Unit 3 and Unit 2 at Gunung Padang must have possessed remarkable masonry capabilities, which do not align with the traditional hunter-gatherer cultures," said the team of researchers. 
 
"Given the long and continuous occupation of Gunung Padang, it is reasonable to speculate that this site held significant importance, attracting ancient people to repeatedly occupy and modify it,” they added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The archaeologists have stated that a giant pyramid which is hidden in an underground hillside in Indonesia is much older than Egypt's Giza Pyramids or England's Stonehenge and is likely to compete with the oldest megalithic structures ever created by humans.

The archaeologists have stated that a giant pyramid which is hidden in an underground hillside in Indonesia is much older than Egypt's Giza Pyramids or England's Stonehenge and is likely to compete with the oldest megalithic structures ever created by humans. This megalithic site in Indonesia is called Gunung Padang. Indonesia's hillside, which is filled with ancient stone structures and is on the island of West Java, is considered sacred by locals, who call it a 'punden berundak' which means a stepped pyramid for the terraces that slowly move towards its peak. The site's surface has barely been brushed by the archaeologists, and already it is shaping up to become a "remarkable testament" to human ingenuity. As per experts, Gunung Padang is the world's oldest pyramidal structure and was built atop an extinct volcano before civilisations existed and humans delved into agriculture. ALSO READ | Why do some people have more Neanderthal DNA than others? Scientists now have an explanation As per new data found by scientists in Indonesia, its interior hides large open chambers which contain many unknown elements. An extensive analysis of Gunung Padang, which is known as the 'mountain of enlightenment' in the local language, has suggested that the natural hill of lava was "meticulously sculpted" by an ancient civilization into the core of a pyramid-like structure after a long time. The site's first radiocarbon dating indicated that initial construction started in the last glacial period, which was more than 27,000 years ago. The results of Gunung Padang's current study have come after carrying out many years of careful analysis. Archaeologists decode the complex structure of Gunung Padang In the years between 2011 and 2015, a variety of techniques like ground penetrating radars, core drilling and subsurface imaging were used by a team of archaeologists, geophysicists and geologists, headed by geologist Danny Hilman Natawidjaja at Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency to investigate the cultural heritage site. It was found by Natawidjaja and other researchers that Gunung Padang was created in complex and sophisticated stages and its deepest part lies 30 meters down. WATCH | Troubling discovery baffles scientists The structure's core part was probably created between 25,000 and 14,000 BCE, however, it was later abandoned for several millennia. "The builders of Unit 3 and Unit 2 at Gunung Padang must have possessed remarkable masonry capabilities, which do not align with the traditional hunter-gatherer cultures," said the team of researchers. "Given the long and continuous occupation of Gunung Padang, it is reasonable to speculate that this site held significant importance, attracting ancient people to repeatedly occupy and modify it,” they added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Archaeologists hint Indonesia's giant hidden pyramid likely to be the oldest in the world

Archaeologists in Turkey have made a discovery, unearthing what they believe could be the remains of a vessel resembling Noah's Ark.

This&nbsp;find was the result of extensive excavation conducted by the Mount Ararat and Noah's Ark Research Team, a collaboration involving three Turkish and American universities.

Their project, which commenced in 2021, aimed to explore the geological formations in the region and reveal insights into ancient history, according to Turkish newspaper Hürriyet.

The heart of this discovery lies in the Durupinar formation, situated in the Doğubayazıt district of Ağrı, Turkey, located less than two miles from the Iran-Turkey border.

The Durupinar formation is a 538-foot geographical feature primarily composed of limonite. It is locally believed by some to be the remnants of Noah's Ark, immortalized in religious and legendary narratives.

Noah's Ark is a well-known legend that transcends religious boundaries. According to&nbsp;legend, Noah, guided by divine instruction, constructed a colossal ark to save two of every animal species from a cataclysmic flood that submerged the Earth.

In the Book of Genesis, it was reported that the ark came to rest on the mountains of Ararat, which now lie in eastern Turkey.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/supermassive-black-hole-blasts-570-light-year-long-twisted-jet-of-plasma-652650">Also read |&nbsp;Supermassive black hole blasts 570-light-year-long twisted jet of plasma</a>

<h2>Archaeological insights</h2>

The research team's excavation efforts&nbsp;involved extracting aged rock and soil samples from the Durupinar formation.

Their findings revealed the presence of "clayey materials, marine materials, and seafood" within the geological formation.

These discoveries indicate human activities in the region dating back to the Chalcolithic period, spanning from 5500 to 3000 BC.

AICU Vice Rector Professor Faruk Kaya shared insights on the significance of their findings, noting the alignment of historical events. He pointed out that the flood associated with the biblical Noah occurred approximately 5,000 years ago. While the dating results are compelling, it is important to acknowledge that the presence of the vessel itself cannot be confirmed through dating alone. Further extensive research and analysis are needed to reveal conclusive evidence.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/researchers-discover-first-proof-of-wild-female-chimpanzees-experiencing-menopause-652303">Also read |&nbsp;Researchers discover first proof of wild female chimpanzees experiencing menopause</a>

The legend of Noah's Ark holds profound significance in three major religions: Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. The discovery of potential archaeological remnants resembling the ark provides a unique opportunity to bridge ancient narratives with scientific exploration.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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Archaeologists in Turkey have made a discovery, unearthing what they believe could be the remains of a vessel resembling Noah's Ark. This find was the result of extensive excavation conducted by the Mount Ararat and Noah's Ark Research Team, a collaboration involving three Turkish and American universities.

Archaeologists in Turkey have made a discovery, unearthing what they believe could be the remains of a vessel resembling Noah's Ark. This find was the result of extensive excavation conducted by the Mount Ararat and Noah's Ark Research Team, a collaboration involving three Turkish and American universities. Their project, which commenced in 2021, aimed to explore the geological formations in the region and reveal insights into ancient history, according to Turkish newspaper Hürriyet. The heart of this discovery lies in the Durupinar formation, situated in the Doğubayazıt district of Ağrı, Turkey, located less than two miles from the Iran-Turkey border. The Durupinar formation is a 538-foot geographical feature primarily composed of limonite. It is locally believed by some to be the remnants of Noah's Ark, immortalized in religious and legendary narratives. Noah's Ark is a well-known legend that transcends religious boundaries. According to legend, Noah, guided by divine instruction, constructed a colossal ark to save two of every animal species from a cataclysmic flood that submerged the Earth. In the Book of Genesis, it was reported that the ark came to rest on the mountains of Ararat, which now lie in eastern Turkey. Also read | Supermassive black hole blasts 570-light-year-long twisted jet of plasma Archaeological insights The research team's excavation efforts involved extracting aged rock and soil samples from the Durupinar formation. Their findings revealed the presence of "clayey materials, marine materials, and seafood" within the geological formation. These discoveries indicate human activities in the region dating back to the Chalcolithic period, spanning from 5500 to 3000 BC. AICU Vice Rector Professor Faruk Kaya shared insights on the significance of their findings, noting the alignment of historical events. He pointed out that the flood associated with the biblical Noah occurred approximately 5,000 years ago. While the dating results are compelling, it is important to acknowledge that the presence of the vessel itself cannot be confirmed through dating alone. Further extensive research and analysis are needed to reveal conclusive evidence. Also read | Researchers discover first proof of wild female chimpanzees experiencing menopause The legend of Noah's Ark holds profound significance in three major religions: Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. The discovery of potential archaeological remnants resembling the ark provides a unique opportunity to bridge ancient narratives with scientific exploration. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Is it Noah's Ark? Archaeologists find 5,000-year-old boat-shaped mound in Turkey

During an infrastructure project in Florida's northeastern city of St. Augustine, construction crews made a remarkable find: the remnants of a shipwreck dating back to the 19th century.&nbsp;

Last week, the construction crew from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) were working on a $42 million drainage improvement initiative in the downtown area, when they uncovered the historic wooden fragments, reported&nbsp;TV station WFLA.

<h2>The find</h2>

Described as a single-masted, shallow-draft sailboat used for coastal fishing, the recovered ship's lower hull measured between 24 and 28 feet originally. The excavation team has recovered 19 feet of the intact remains.

Alongside the vessel, various artifacts were found. According to the Guardian report citing Jacksonville Today, these include the base of a kerosene lamp, two coconut shells likely repurposed as drinking cups, leather shoes presumed to belong to a crew member, and 19th-century coins.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/what-was-that-loud-bang-and-bizarre-flash-of-light-stun-locals-in-melbourne-648730">What was that? Loud bang and bizarre flash of light stun locals in Melbourne</a>

To ensure the proper handling of any potential discoveries, FDOT had enlisted the support of Southeastern Archaeological Research (Search), an archaeology firm.&nbsp;

James Delgado, the senior vice president at Search, along with archaeologist Sam Turner, co-led the excavation of the vessel.&nbsp;

The find ultimately proved to be a "very humble but important little water craft" from 19th-century. The "small single-masted, shallow-draft" sailboat, as per Delgado was used "to extract fish and shellfish from coastal waterways and directly offshore."

<h2>Excavation process</h2>

Using controlled water pressure, the team meticulously removed the layers of sediment veiling the vessel, progressively revealing its structure.&nbsp;

Delgado expressed the fascination of being the first to witness this unveiling process, and said: "The first moment of seeing little bit to seeing it systematically exposed as we worked through the different layers was, as always, fascinating...because you're the first eyes to see this."

FDOT District 2 Secretary Greg Evans praised the exceptional preservation of the sunken vessel, and said that "It’s truly an incredible find".

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The ship was preserved well as "it was encapsulated in soil and mud, so there was no air contact for it to decay."

For Delgado, the discovery not only shed light on the historical context but also spoke to the enduring spirit of toil and resilience among "everyday people".

"What it speaks to is the reality of life for so many people, then as well as now. You get up, you go to work, and you make a living to put food on the table. You work hard," he remarked.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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During an infrastructure project in Florida's northeastern city of St. Augustine, construction crews made a remarkable find: the remnants of a shipwreck dating back to the 19th century.

During an infrastructure project in Florida's northeastern city of St. Augustine, construction crews made a remarkable find: the remnants of a shipwreck dating back to the 19th century. Last week, the construction crew from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) were working on a $42 million drainage improvement initiative in the downtown area, when they uncovered the historic wooden fragments, reported TV station WFLA. The find Described as a single-masted, shallow-draft sailboat used for coastal fishing, the recovered ship's lower hull measured between 24 and 28 feet originally. The excavation team has recovered 19 feet of the intact remains. Alongside the vessel, various artifacts were found. According to the Guardian report citing Jacksonville Today, these include the base of a kerosene lamp, two coconut shells likely repurposed as drinking cups, leather shoes presumed to belong to a crew member, and 19th-century coins. Also read | What was that? Loud bang and bizarre flash of light stun locals in Melbourne To ensure the proper handling of any potential discoveries, FDOT had enlisted the support of Southeastern Archaeological Research (Search), an archaeology firm. James Delgado, the senior vice president at Search, along with archaeologist Sam Turner, co-led the excavation of the vessel. The find ultimately proved to be a "very humble but important little water craft" from 19th-century. The "small single-masted, shallow-draft" sailboat, as per Delgado was used "to extract fish and shellfish from coastal waterways and directly offshore." Excavation process Using controlled water pressure, the team meticulously removed the layers of sediment veiling the vessel, progressively revealing its structure. Delgado expressed the fascination of being the first to witness this unveiling process, and said: "The first moment of seeing little bit to seeing it systematically exposed as we worked through the different layers was, as always, fascinating...because you're the first eyes to see this." FDOT District 2 Secretary Greg Evans praised the exceptional preservation of the sunken vessel, and said that "It’s truly an incredible find". Also read | Japan's tourism bounces back, welcomes 2 million foreign visitors in September The ship was preserved well as "it was encapsulated in soil and mud, so there was no air contact for it to decay." For Delgado, the discovery not only shed light on the historical context but also spoke to the enduring spirit of toil and resilience among "everyday people". "What it speaks to is the reality of life for so many people, then as well as now. You get up, you go to work, and you make a living to put food on the table. You work hard," he remarked. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Historic shipwreck uncovered in Florida provides glimpse into 19th-century life

In an ordinary field in North Essex, England, a metal detectorist has made an exciting historical discovery dating back to the Middle Ages.

The detectorist found a gold medieval ring engraved with a beautiful declaration of love and a silver hooked tag. The finds, as per BBC, are subject to a coroner's inquest at Chelmsford.

<h2>Engraved love</h2>

The gold medieval ring with a love declaration in French was found near Frinton. On another occasion, the same detectorist landed upon a silver hooked tag in the field.

"Je desir vous Ceruir," reads the ring. This French term is a declaration of love and translates to "I desire to serve you".&nbsp;The language is a type of French used in England during the Middle Ages.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/leonardo-da-vinci-mightve-unknowingly-created-a-rare-compound-while-painting-his-iconic-piece-mona-lisa-647883">Mona Lisa reflects Leonardo da Vinci's genius in more ways than one. Here's how</a>

The gold ring was found in a cracked condition and is pretty small, with a diameter of merely 9.4 millimetres, and a width of 3.9 millimetres, reports BBC News.

Its style, as per experts, was popular between 1400 and 1500 — rings with chivalric mottos were all the rage back then. Smitten by their love, in a courtly love tradition, men would often have mottos like "I desire to serve you" or "wish to obey" engraved as promises.

They also believe it belonged to someone with an elite status, and a connection to the French.

<h2>'I desire to serve you'</h2>

The ring, though pretty small, belonged to a man, speculates Lori Rogerson, the Essex County Finds Liaison Officer for the Colchester and Ipswich Museum Service.

She said the ring is so "tiny it only fits on my little finger" and that it was probably worn on all joints of all the fingers.

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"At this period rings were worn on all the joints of all the fingers so that it could have been worn on the upper joint," said Rogerson, while talking to BBC.

The metal detectorist also found a Tudor silver-gilt hooked tag that women probably used to hold up one layer of skirt from another, so both were visible.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In an ordinary field in North Essex, England, a metal detectorist has made an exciting historical discovery dating back to the Middle Ages. The detectorist found a gold medieval ring engraved with a beautiful declaration of love and a silver hooked tag.

In an ordinary field in North Essex, England, a metal detectorist has made an exciting historical discovery dating back to the Middle Ages. The detectorist found a gold medieval ring engraved with a beautiful declaration of love and a silver hooked tag. The finds, as per BBC, are subject to a coroner's inquest at Chelmsford. Engraved love The gold medieval ring with a love declaration in French was found near Frinton. On another occasion, the same detectorist landed upon a silver hooked tag in the field. "Je desir vous Ceruir," reads the ring. This French term is a declaration of love and translates to "I desire to serve you". The language is a type of French used in England during the Middle Ages. Also read | Mona Lisa reflects Leonardo da Vinci's genius in more ways than one. Here's how The gold ring was found in a cracked condition and is pretty small, with a diameter of merely 9.4 millimetres, and a width of 3.9 millimetres, reports BBC News. Its style, as per experts, was popular between 1400 and 1500 — rings with chivalric mottos were all the rage back then. Smitten by their love, in a courtly love tradition, men would often have mottos like "I desire to serve you" or "wish to obey" engraved as promises. They also believe it belonged to someone with an elite status, and a connection to the French. 'I desire to serve you' The ring, though pretty small, belonged to a man, speculates Lori Rogerson, the Essex County Finds Liaison Officer for the Colchester and Ipswich Museum Service. She said the ring is so "tiny it only fits on my little finger" and that it was probably worn on all joints of all the fingers. Also read | This stunning visualisation of Mars' gigantic 'Labyrinth of Night' will blow your mind "At this period rings were worn on all the joints of all the fingers so that it could have been worn on the upper joint," said Rogerson, while talking to BBC. The metal detectorist also found a Tudor silver-gilt hooked tag that women probably used to hold up one layer of skirt from another, so both were visible. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'I desire to serve you': Extraordinary declaration of love recovered from an ordinary field in England

A wealth of grave goods, which included hundreds of large wine jars - some of which were sealed - were uncovered by the archaeologists in the tomb of the First Dynasty Egyptian queen Meret-Neith. The archaeologists said that these funereal riches have bolstered the case that Meret-Neith was a person of great significance, maybe even the first female pharaoh of Egypt.

Meret-Neith is said to have existed some 5,000 years ago and served as Egypt's queen sometime around 2950 BCE. At the very least, Meret-Neith was a queen-consort and regent. As per experts, she may have been a ruler or a pharaoh, however, archaeologists have failed to determine her position with certainty. &nbsp;As per historians, the first queen who is believed to have assumed the full royal titulary was Sobekneferu. However, she is believed to have lived a millennium later.

There is definitely major evidence in the tomb of Meret-Neith at the royal necropolis of Abydos which proves her importance. She was buried in between the final resting places of male pharaohs, and her own tomb was of great richness and comparable size. This has helped experts agree that she was probably the most powerful woman of her time.

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/2000-year-old-tomb-of-cerberus-with-fresco-of-three-headed-dog-uncovered-in-italy-645495">&nbsp;A 2,000-year-old 'Tomb of Cerberus' with fresco of three-headed dog uncovered in Italy</a>

An international team of archaeologists, headed by Christiana Kohler of the University of Vienna, worked with the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities to discover more about the grand monument in which Meret-Neith was buried years ago.

Along with the wine jars, which were discovered with grape seeds and remains of the wine that were once held by them, the researchers also stumbled upon inscriptions which clearly stated that Meret-Neith was responsible for important offices like the royal treasury. This further added to the previous evidence about the significance of the queen.

<h2>New technologies used to understand the construction of tomb</h2>

The archaeologists also used new archaeological technologies to better understand the way in which the burial monument was built.

The funeral complex of Meret-Neith, which was built using unbaked brick, clay, and wood, also had the tombs of 41 servants and courtiers who were interred with her.

WATCH |&nbsp;Four tombs were discovered in the Roman necropolis in Gaza

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The researchers said that the analysis showed that this monument was not built all at once, but in stages and in a long period of duration. The research hints that these burial buddies may not have been killed as ritual sacrifices, but were laid to rest with the queen as a mark of honour, after their deaths.&nbsp;

The work on the tomb is continuing and experts hope to discover more about this mysterious queen who continues mesmerising even after thousands of years of her death.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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A wealth of grave goods, which included hundreds of large wine jars - some of which were sealed - were uncovered by the archaeologists in the tomb of the First Dynasty Egyptian queen Meret-Neith.

A wealth of grave goods, which included hundreds of large wine jars - some of which were sealed - were uncovered by the archaeologists in the tomb of the First Dynasty Egyptian queen Meret-Neith. The archaeologists said that these funereal riches have bolstered the case that Meret-Neith was a person of great significance, maybe even the first female pharaoh of Egypt. Meret-Neith is said to have existed some 5,000 years ago and served as Egypt's queen sometime around 2950 BCE. At the very least, Meret-Neith was a queen-consort and regent. As per experts, she may have been a ruler or a pharaoh, however, archaeologists have failed to determine her position with certainty. As per historians, the first queen who is believed to have assumed the full royal titulary was Sobekneferu. However, she is believed to have lived a millennium later. There is definitely major evidence in the tomb of Meret-Neith at the royal necropolis of Abydos which proves her importance. She was buried in between the final resting places of male pharaohs, and her own tomb was of great richness and comparable size. This has helped experts agree that she was probably the most powerful woman of her time. ALSO READ | A 2,000-year-old 'Tomb of Cerberus' with fresco of three-headed dog uncovered in Italy An international team of archaeologists, headed by Christiana Kohler of the University of Vienna, worked with the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities to discover more about the grand monument in which Meret-Neith was buried years ago. Along with the wine jars, which were discovered with grape seeds and remains of the wine that were once held by them, the researchers also stumbled upon inscriptions which clearly stated that Meret-Neith was responsible for important offices like the royal treasury. This further added to the previous evidence about the significance of the queen. New technologies used to understand the construction of tomb The archaeologists also used new archaeological technologies to better understand the way in which the burial monument was built. The funeral complex of Meret-Neith, which was built using unbaked brick, clay, and wood, also had the tombs of 41 servants and courtiers who were interred with her. WATCH | Four tombs were discovered in the Roman necropolis in Gaza The researchers said that the analysis showed that this monument was not built all at once, but in stages and in a long period of duration. The research hints that these burial buddies may not have been killed as ritual sacrifices, but were laid to rest with the queen as a mark of honour, after their deaths. The work on the tomb is continuing and experts hope to discover more about this mysterious queen who continues mesmerising even after thousands of years of her death. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Archaeologists find remnants of 5,000-year-old wine in ancient tomb of Egypt

Archaeologists have discovered the oldest known wooden structure made by the hands of a human ancestor, and it is nearly 500,000 years old. The researchers were working near Zambia’s Kalambo Falls when they stumbled upon the simple wooden structure which they said suggests people who made it were cognitively sophisticated.&nbsp;

<h2>About the discovery</h2>

The study about the discovery was published on Wednesday (September 20) in the journal Nature which details the wooden objects that the researchers unearthed.&nbsp;

The wooden structure found is made up of two interlocking logs of a large-fruited willow tree with a notch deliberately crafted into the upper piece to allow them to fit together at right angles around 476,000 years ago, said the researchers.&nbsp;

The oldest wooden structure, before the announcement out of Zambia, was just 9,000 years old. Meanwhile, the oldest known wooden artefact which was discovered in Israel, is said to be a 780,000-year-old fragment of plank.

The latest discovery was made at Kalambo Falls, on Lake Tanganyika in northern Zambia near the border with Tanzania, a site which has been investigated by scientists since the 1950s.&nbsp;

As per the recent study, researchers, in addition to the world’s oldest wooden structure also found stone tools below the river, three of which were covered in clay deposits above the river level.&nbsp;

It is also worth noting that these wooden artefacts survived hundreds of thousands of years due to the permanently elevated water table since the structure was discovered in 2019 above a 235-metre-high (770-foot) waterfall on the banks of the Zambian river.&nbsp;

<h2>What does the discovery suggest?</h2>

While scientists are not sure what the wooden structure was used for, they believe it to be a part of a wooden platform used as a walkway, to keep food or firewood dry. It could also be used as a base to build a shelter since researchers also found a digging stick and other wooden tools at the same site.&nbsp;

“The framework could have supported a walkway or platform raised above the seasonally wet surroundings. A platform could have multiple purposes including storage of firewood, tools, food and as a foundation on which to place a hut,” Larry Barham, an archaeologist from the University of Liverpool in the United Kingdom told AFP.&nbsp;

Scientists have also noted in the study that the interlocking logs have “no known parallels” in the African or Eurasian Palaeolithic.” The recent discovery also pushes back the dates of the earliest examples of woodworking predating the emergence of our own species, Homo sapiens.&nbsp;

The earliest evidence of Homo sapiens is from around 300,000 years ago. The discovery has “changed how I thought about these people,” Barham told AFP, adding that they “transformed their surroundings to make life easier, even if it was only by making a platform to sit on by the river to do their daily chores.”&nbsp;

He added, “They used their intelligence, imagination and skills to create something they'd never seen before, something that had never previously existed.” This also suggests an abstract level of thinking and “probably language,” said Barham. 
 
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Archaeologists have discovered the oldest known wooden structure made by the hands of a human ancestor, and it is nearly 500,000 years old. The researchers were working near Zambia’s Kalambo Falls when they stumbled upon the simple wooden structure which they said suggests people who made it were cognitively sophisticated.

Archaeologists have discovered the oldest known wooden structure made by the hands of a human ancestor, and it is nearly 500,000 years old. The researchers were working near Zambia’s Kalambo Falls when they stumbled upon the simple wooden structure which they said suggests people who made it were cognitively sophisticated. About the discovery The study about the discovery was published on Wednesday (September 20) in the journal Nature which details the wooden objects that the researchers unearthed. The wooden structure found is made up of two interlocking logs of a large-fruited willow tree with a notch deliberately crafted into the upper piece to allow them to fit together at right angles around 476,000 years ago, said the researchers. The oldest wooden structure, before the announcement out of Zambia, was just 9,000 years old. Meanwhile, the oldest known wooden artefact which was discovered in Israel, is said to be a 780,000-year-old fragment of plank. The latest discovery was made at Kalambo Falls, on Lake Tanganyika in northern Zambia near the border with Tanzania, a site which has been investigated by scientists since the 1950s. As per the recent study, researchers, in addition to the world’s oldest wooden structure also found stone tools below the river, three of which were covered in clay deposits above the river level. It is also worth noting that these wooden artefacts survived hundreds of thousands of years due to the permanently elevated water table since the structure was discovered in 2019 above a 235-metre-high (770-foot) waterfall on the banks of the Zambian river. What does the discovery suggest? While scientists are not sure what the wooden structure was used for, they believe it to be a part of a wooden platform used as a walkway, to keep food or firewood dry. It could also be used as a base to build a shelter since researchers also found a digging stick and other wooden tools at the same site. “The framework could have supported a walkway or platform raised above the seasonally wet surroundings. A platform could have multiple purposes including storage of firewood, tools, food and as a foundation on which to place a hut,” Larry Barham, an archaeologist from the University of Liverpool in the United Kingdom told AFP. Scientists have also noted in the study that the interlocking logs have “no known parallels” in the African or Eurasian Palaeolithic.” The recent discovery also pushes back the dates of the earliest examples of woodworking predating the emergence of our own species, Homo sapiens. The earliest evidence of Homo sapiens is from around 300,000 years ago. The discovery has “changed how I thought about these people,” Barham told AFP, adding that they “transformed their surroundings to make life easier, even if it was only by making a platform to sit on by the river to do their daily chores.” He added, “They used their intelligence, imagination and skills to create something they'd never seen before, something that had never previously existed.” This also suggests an abstract level of thinking and “probably language,” said Barham. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Archaeologists in Zambia discover world’s oldest wooden structure

Archaeologists have made a significant discovery of Palaeolithic cave art in "Cova Dones" or "Cueva Dones", a cave site in Spain.&nbsp;

With over 100 ancient paintings and engravings believed to be at least 24,000 years old, this discovery can arguably be considered one of the most important finds on the Eastern Iberian Coast in Europe.

<h2>A remarkable find</h2>

The 500-metre-long cave located near Valencia, as per Phys.org, is an often visited site for locals, hikers, and explorers.&nbsp;Despite this, the existence of Palaeolithic paintings remained unnoticed until researchers made this remarkable discovery in June 2021.&nbsp;The findings have been published in the journal 'Antiquity'.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/australia-collaborates-with-tech-giants-to-block-ai-generated-child-porn-in-search-engines-634761">Australia collaborates with tech giants to block AI-generated child porn in search engines</a>

"When we saw the first painted auroch [extinct wild bull], we immediately acknowledged it was important. Although Spain is the country with the largest number of Palaeolithic cave art sites, most of them are concentrated in northern Spain. Eastern Iberia is an area where few of these sites have been documented so far," said Dr Aitor Ruiz-Redondo, Senior Lecturer of Prehistory at the University of Zaragoza and a research affiliate at the University of Southampton.

He added that "the actual 'shock' of realising its significance came long after the first discovery."

"Once we began the proper systematic survey we realised we were facing a major cave art site, like the ones that can be found elsewhere in Cantabrian Spain, southern France or Andalusia, but that totally lack in this territory."

<h2>The discovery</h2>

The research team, led by Dr Ruiz-Redondo, Dr Virginia Barciela-González, Senior Lecturer of Prehistory at the University of Alicante, and Dr Ximo Martorell-Briz, an affiliate researcher at the University of Alicante, painstakingly documented more than a hundred motifs&nbsp;in Cova Dones.&nbsp;

As per the research abstract published on the Cambridge website, the team has "identified more than 110 graphic units, including at least 19 zoomorphic representations, located in three different zones of the cave."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/our-prehistoric-ancestors-turned-stones-into-spheres-for-a-reason-says-study-634046">Our prehistoric ancestors turned stones into spheres for a reason, says study</a>

The depicted animals include "seven horses, seven hinds (female red deer), two aurochs, a stag, and two indeterminate animals. The rest of the art consists of conventional signs (rectangles, meanders), several panels of ‘macaroni’ (‘flutings’ made with either fingers or tools dragged across a soft surface), isolated lines, and poorly preserved unidentified paintings."

What sets this site apart is not just the quantity of ancient artworks, but also the variety of techniques used in creating them.&nbsp;Remarkably, most of the paintings were created using clay.

These ancient artists would drag their fingers and palms covered with clay on the cave walls, and the humid cave environment allowed the paintings to dry slowly, preserving them over thousands of years.&nbsp;Although clay painting is a known art form in Palaeolithic art, examples of its usage or preservation are rare.&nbsp;

The research is still in its early stages, and there is much more to explore and document within the cave. Scientists predict that further investigation&nbsp;of the caves should uncover more art in the coming years.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Archaeologists have made a significant discovery of Palaeolithic cave art in "Cova Dones" or "Cueva Dones", a cave site in Spain. With over 100 ancient paintings and engravings believed to be at least 24,000 years old, this discovery can arguably be considered one of the most important finds on the Eastern Iberian Coast in Europe.

Archaeologists have made a significant discovery of Palaeolithic cave art in "Cova Dones" or "Cueva Dones", a cave site in Spain. With over 100 ancient paintings and engravings believed to be at least 24,000 years old, this discovery can arguably be considered one of the most important finds on the Eastern Iberian Coast in Europe. A remarkable find The 500-metre-long cave located near Valencia, as per Phys.org, is an often visited site for locals, hikers, and explorers. Despite this, the existence of Palaeolithic paintings remained unnoticed until researchers made this remarkable discovery in June 2021. The findings have been published in the journal 'Antiquity'. Also read | Australia collaborates with tech giants to block AI-generated child porn in search engines "When we saw the first painted auroch [extinct wild bull], we immediately acknowledged it was important. Although Spain is the country with the largest number of Palaeolithic cave art sites, most of them are concentrated in northern Spain. Eastern Iberia is an area where few of these sites have been documented so far," said Dr Aitor Ruiz-Redondo, Senior Lecturer of Prehistory at the University of Zaragoza and a research affiliate at the University of Southampton. He added that "the actual 'shock' of realising its significance came long after the first discovery." "Once we began the proper systematic survey we realised we were facing a major cave art site, like the ones that can be found elsewhere in Cantabrian Spain, southern France or Andalusia, but that totally lack in this territory." The discovery The research team, led by Dr Ruiz-Redondo, Dr Virginia Barciela-González, Senior Lecturer of Prehistory at the University of Alicante, and Dr Ximo Martorell-Briz, an affiliate researcher at the University of Alicante, painstakingly documented more than a hundred motifs in Cova Dones. As per the research abstract published on the Cambridge website, the team has "identified more than 110 graphic units, including at least 19 zoomorphic representations, located in three different zones of the cave." Also read | Our prehistoric ancestors turned stones into spheres for a reason, says study The depicted animals include "seven horses, seven hinds (female red deer), two aurochs, a stag, and two indeterminate animals. The rest of the art consists of conventional signs (rectangles, meanders), several panels of ‘macaroni’ (‘flutings’ made with either fingers or tools dragged across a soft surface), isolated lines, and poorly preserved unidentified paintings." What sets this site apart is not just the quantity of ancient artworks, but also the variety of techniques used in creating them. Remarkably, most of the paintings were created using clay. These ancient artists would drag their fingers and palms covered with clay on the cave walls, and the humid cave environment allowed the paintings to dry slowly, preserving them over thousands of years. Although clay painting is a known art form in Palaeolithic art, examples of its usage or preservation are rare. The research is still in its early stages, and there is much more to explore and document within the cave. Scientists predict that further investigation of the caves should uncover more art in the coming years. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Researchers discover 'remarkable' 24,000-year-old palaeolithic cave art in Spain

Scientists have come across what may be Europe's oldest lakeside village. Guarded by a fortress of defensive spikes, what could be one of Europe's earliest sedentary communities lies beneath the waters of Lake Ohrid aka, the "Pearl of the Balkans."

The village is estimated to date back around 8,000 years, which makes it the oldest lakeside village in Europe discovered so far, reports AFP.

<h2>Ancient settlement</h2>

This ancient settlement, as per the AFP report, is located on the Albanian side of lake Ohrid, in areas regularly flooded by rising waters. Because of this, it was located on stilts.&nbsp;

Researchers estimate that it housed around 200 to 500 people and dates back to 6,000 and 5,800 BC.

Talking to AFP, Albert Hafner, a professor of archaeology from Switzerland's University of Bern, said: "It is several hundred years older than previously known lake-dwelling sites in the Mediterranean and Alpine regions."

"To our knowledge, it is the oldest in Europe," he remarked.

Previously, ancient villages in the Italian Alps that date back to 5000 BC were thought to be the oldest European settlements, added Hafner.

<h2>Fortification mystery</h2>

Guarding these people and the community were defensive structures consisting of around 10,000 spikes were driven into the lake's bottom. These spikes formed defensive barricades that were revealed during recent underwater excavations.&nbsp;

However, this is just speculation. The exact reasons for the need for such extensive fortifications remain a mystery.

Hafner, an expert in European Neolithic lake dwellings, said that to protect themselves in such a way, the residents "had to cut down a forest".

<h2>Real treasure trove for research</h2>

As per Hafner, the discovery is "a real treasure trove for research". The Lake Ohrid region has a rich archaeological history, the lake itself has been around for more than a million years, reports AFP.

The underwater excavation is yielding valuable insights into the daily life of its ancient inhabitants. Archaeologists, assisted by professional divers, have come across fossilized fragments of wood, including prized pieces of oak.&nbsp;

An analysis of tree rings, as per Albanian archaeologist Adrian Anastasi provides "valuable insights" information about climatic and environmental conditions during that period.

"Oak is like a Swiss watch, very precise, like a calendar," added Hafner.

The site's lush vegetation makes excavation a slow and meticulous process, and in order to "understand the structure of this prehistoric site without damaging it" researchers are "moving very slowly and very carefully" said Anastasi.

Researchers believe that the village relied on agriculture and domesticated livestock for sustenance. According to Ilir Gjepali, an Albanian archaeology professor working at the site, they've found seeds, plants, and bones of both wild and domesticated&nbsp;animals.&nbsp; Archaeologists anticipate that it will take another two decades to fully explore and study the site.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Scientists have come across what may be Europe's oldest lakeside village. Guarded by a fortress of defensive spikes, what could be one of Europe's earliest sedentary communities lies beneath the waters of Lake Ohrid aka, the "Pearl of the Balkans.

Scientists have come across what may be Europe's oldest lakeside village. Guarded by a fortress of defensive spikes, what could be one of Europe's earliest sedentary communities lies beneath the waters of Lake Ohrid aka, the "Pearl of the Balkans." The village is estimated to date back around 8,000 years, which makes it the oldest lakeside village in Europe discovered so far, reports AFP. Ancient settlement This ancient settlement, as per the AFP report, is located on the Albanian side of lake Ohrid, in areas regularly flooded by rising waters. Because of this, it was located on stilts. Researchers estimate that it housed around 200 to 500 people and dates back to 6,000 and 5,800 BC. Talking to AFP, Albert Hafner, a professor of archaeology from Switzerland's University of Bern, said: "It is several hundred years older than previously known lake-dwelling sites in the Mediterranean and Alpine regions." "To our knowledge, it is the oldest in Europe," he remarked. Previously, ancient villages in the Italian Alps that date back to 5000 BC were thought to be the oldest European settlements, added Hafner. Fortification mystery Guarding these people and the community were defensive structures consisting of around 10,000 spikes were driven into the lake's bottom. These spikes formed defensive barricades that were revealed during recent underwater excavations. However, this is just speculation. The exact reasons for the need for such extensive fortifications remain a mystery. Hafner, an expert in European Neolithic lake dwellings, said that to protect themselves in such a way, the residents "had to cut down a forest". Real treasure trove for research As per Hafner, the discovery is "a real treasure trove for research". The Lake Ohrid region has a rich archaeological history, the lake itself has been around for more than a million years, reports AFP. The underwater excavation is yielding valuable insights into the daily life of its ancient inhabitants. Archaeologists, assisted by professional divers, have come across fossilized fragments of wood, including prized pieces of oak. An analysis of tree rings, as per Albanian archaeologist Adrian Anastasi provides "valuable insights" information about climatic and environmental conditions during that period. "Oak is like a Swiss watch, very precise, like a calendar," added Hafner. The site's lush vegetation makes excavation a slow and meticulous process, and in order to "understand the structure of this prehistoric site without damaging it" researchers are "moving very slowly and very carefully" said Anastasi. Researchers believe that the village relied on agriculture and domesticated livestock for sustenance. According to Ilir Gjepali, an Albanian archaeology professor working at the site, they've found seeds, plants, and bones of both wild and domesticated animals. Archaeologists anticipate that it will take another two decades to fully explore and study the site. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Scientists unearth Europe’s oldest lakeside stilt village behind a fortress of defensive spikes

Decades after a retired chicken farmer found curious bones in Australia's New South Wales, scientists have identified the remains as those belonging to an almost 250 million-year-old lizard-like species. With this, the mystery which has captivated scientists for years has finally come to an end.

<h2>A head-scratching mystery</h2>

The amazing discovery, as per experts, may "rewrite the evolution of amphibians in Australia," and prove that the nation was a "great place for animals to evolve and find refuge after mass extinctions".

As per a BBC report, scientists estimate that the "new" species of amphibians roamed Australia some 247 million years ago.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-unearth-a-248-million-years-old-marine-reptile-that-shared-this-curious-similarity-to-whales-623510">Scientists unearth 248 million-years-old marine reptile that shared this curious similarity to whales</a>

Based on the nearly complete skeleton, scientists estimate that the amphibian was approximately 1.5 metres (around 5 feet) long and had a salamander-shaped body.&nbsp;

The remarkable lizard-like amphibian is said to have survived not just one, but two mass-extinction events. It is part of the Temnospondyli family — which refers to resilient amphibians that survived two of the earth's five mass extinction event; including a series of volcanic eruptions that wiped off about 70-80 per cent of all dinosaurs around 66 million years ago.&nbsp;

As per experts, the amphibian which has been named Arenaepeton supinatus, latin for "sand creeper on its back" once lived in the freshwater lakes and streams of Sydney.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/newly-discovered-skull-in-china-baffles-scientists-is-it-a-new-lineage-of-humans-623180">Newly-discovered skull in China baffles scientists. Is it yet another lineage of humans?</a>

Lachlan Hart - the palaeontologist who ultimately decoded the petrified remains and identified the fossil, says that the find is remarkable, and shows that "Australia was a great place for animals to evolve and find refuge after mass extinctions."

Till date, only three fossils capturing the Temnospondyli species have been successfully identified in Australia.&nbsp;

<h2>Where was the fossil found?</h2>

As per BBC, the find was serendipity. The farmer, Mihail Mihaildis, was attempting to fix a broken garden wall at his home in Umina, a suburb located around 86 kilometres from Sydney.&nbsp;

For this, he purchased a 1.6 tonne sandstone slab in which he ultimately found the immortalised outline of an unknown creature, this remarkable amphibian of the species Arenaepeton supinatus.&nbsp;The extraordinary find soon goes on full-time display at the Australian Museum.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Decades after a retired chicken farmer found curious bones in Australia's New South Wales, scientists have identified the remains as those belonging to an almost 250 million-year-old lizard-like species.

Decades after a retired chicken farmer found curious bones in Australia's New South Wales, scientists have identified the remains as those belonging to an almost 250 million-year-old lizard-like species. With this, the mystery which has captivated scientists for years has finally come to an end. A head-scratching mystery The amazing discovery, as per experts, may "rewrite the evolution of amphibians in Australia," and prove that the nation was a "great place for animals to evolve and find refuge after mass extinctions". As per a BBC report, scientists estimate that the "new" species of amphibians roamed Australia some 247 million years ago. Also read | Scientists unearth 248 million-years-old marine reptile that shared this curious similarity to whales Based on the nearly complete skeleton, scientists estimate that the amphibian was approximately 1.5 metres (around 5 feet) long and had a salamander-shaped body. The remarkable lizard-like amphibian is said to have survived not just one, but two mass-extinction events. It is part of the Temnospondyli family — which refers to resilient amphibians that survived two of the earth's five mass extinction event; including a series of volcanic eruptions that wiped off about 70-80 per cent of all dinosaurs around 66 million years ago. As per experts, the amphibian which has been named Arenaepeton supinatus, latin for "sand creeper on its back" once lived in the freshwater lakes and streams of Sydney. Also read | Newly-discovered skull in China baffles scientists. Is it yet another lineage of humans? Lachlan Hart - the palaeontologist who ultimately decoded the petrified remains and identified the fossil, says that the find is remarkable, and shows that "Australia was a great place for animals to evolve and find refuge after mass extinctions." Till date, only three fossils capturing the Temnospondyli species have been successfully identified in Australia. Where was the fossil found? As per BBC, the find was serendipity. The farmer, Mihail Mihaildis, was attempting to fix a broken garden wall at his home in Umina, a suburb located around 86 kilometres from Sydney. For this, he purchased a 1.6 tonne sandstone slab in which he ultimately found the immortalised outline of an unknown creature, this remarkable amphibian of the species Arenaepeton supinatus. The extraordinary find soon goes on full-time display at the Australian Museum. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Scientists identify 248 million-year-old lizard-like creature that survived what dinosaurs couldn't

You must've seen videos of certain types of whales that hunt by merely swimming with their mouths open. Their prey just seems to swim right into their cavernous mouths and into their bellies. This behaviour is called filter-feeding. Using this, species like blue whales and baleen whales sift immense quantities of tiny prey from the ocean.

While fascinating, whales are far from the first species to use this hunting method. Fossils unearthed in China's Hubei Province show that a curious marine reptile that roamed the waters around 250 million years ago had hunting habits similar to the modern gentle giants of the sea — whales.

<h2>Blast from the past</h2>

Scientists estimate that the ancient reptile species existed in the Triassic Period, around 248 million years ago. They suggest that the marine reptile species called Hupehsuchus nanchangensis was lost to us during Earth's worst mass extinction.

While the reptile had a feeding style similar to the modern whale, Hupehsuchus was far more modest, at only about three feet (one metre) long.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/newly-discovered-skull-in-china-baffles-scientists-is-it-a-new-lineage-of-humans-623180">Newly-discovered skull in China baffles scientists. Is it yet another lineage of humans?</a>

Fossils indicate that the reptile had a long, narrow snout, a toothless mouth. It used its front and back limbs as paddles for steering, and its broad tail for forward propulsion.

Hupehsuchus nanchangensis' snout was made up of long, loose bones, with the lower jaw connected to the rest of the skull loosely. This, as per the scientists, allowed it to open its mouth wide to take in large amounts of water that contained small prey like zooplanktons.

<h2>How similar were these reptiles to whales?</h2>

Not very, there's a very obvious, enormous size difference. Furthermore, while the feeding method is similar, scientists speculate that there might be key differences.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/rare-video-captures-killer-whale-tearing-into-massive-shark-slurping-its-liver-watch-622127">Rare video captures killer whale tearing into massive shark, 'slurping' its liver. Watch</a>

"The further the relationship between two animals, the more fascinating this phenomenon becomes," said the study's lead author paleontologist Long Cheng of the Wuhan Center of China Geological Survey.&nbsp; 
"Baleen whales are mammals and Hupehsuchus are reptiles. Their affinity is so distant. And they appeared more than 200 million years apart," he added.

To sift through the ocean water for prey, whales use baleen plates, aka whale bone, that are plates made of keratin. However, fossils of the Hupehsuchus nanchangensis were missing baleen.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/move-over-blue-whale-scientists-discover-40-million-year-old-earths-biggest-animal-ever-621809">Not blue whale, this 40mn-year-old animal is largest ever to have lived on Earth</a>

Researchers say that one reason for this could be that keratin does not fossilise well. Based on grooves and notches found on the fossil's jaw, they believe that the reptile had soft tissue which must've served as baleen.

Talking to Reuters, co-author of the research, palaeontologist Mike Benton of the University of Bristol in England said: "Altogether, this points to a soft pouch made of skin around the mouth and throat, as in modern baleen whales, and some kind of filtering device hanging from the jaws, like baleen - but the 'baleen' and skin are not preserved."&nbsp;The research was published on Monday in the journal BMC Ecology and Evolution.

(With inputs from agencies)

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You must've seen videos of certain types of whales that hunt by merely swimming with their mouths open. Their prey just seems to swim right into their cavernous mouths and into their bellies.

You must've seen videos of certain types of whales that hunt by merely swimming with their mouths open. Their prey just seems to swim right into their cavernous mouths and into their bellies. This behaviour is called filter-feeding. Using this, species like blue whales and baleen whales sift immense quantities of tiny prey from the ocean. While fascinating, whales are far from the first species to use this hunting method. Fossils unearthed in China's Hubei Province show that a curious marine reptile that roamed the waters around 250 million years ago had hunting habits similar to the modern gentle giants of the sea — whales. Blast from the past Scientists estimate that the ancient reptile species existed in the Triassic Period, around 248 million years ago. They suggest that the marine reptile species called Hupehsuchus nanchangensis was lost to us during Earth's worst mass extinction. While the reptile had a feeding style similar to the modern whale, Hupehsuchus was far more modest, at only about three feet (one metre) long. Also read | Newly-discovered skull in China baffles scientists. Is it yet another lineage of humans? Fossils indicate that the reptile had a long, narrow snout, a toothless mouth. It used its front and back limbs as paddles for steering, and its broad tail for forward propulsion. Hupehsuchus nanchangensis' snout was made up of long, loose bones, with the lower jaw connected to the rest of the skull loosely. This, as per the scientists, allowed it to open its mouth wide to take in large amounts of water that contained small prey like zooplanktons. How similar were these reptiles to whales? Not very, there's a very obvious, enormous size difference. Furthermore, while the feeding method is similar, scientists speculate that there might be key differences. Also read | Rare video captures killer whale tearing into massive shark, 'slurping' its liver. Watch "The further the relationship between two animals, the more fascinating this phenomenon becomes," said the study's lead author paleontologist Long Cheng of the Wuhan Center of China Geological Survey. "Baleen whales are mammals and Hupehsuchus are reptiles. Their affinity is so distant. And they appeared more than 200 million years apart," he added. To sift through the ocean water for prey, whales use baleen plates, aka whale bone, that are plates made of keratin. However, fossils of the Hupehsuchus nanchangensis were missing baleen. Also read | Not blue whale, this 40mn-year-old animal is largest ever to have lived on Earth Researchers say that one reason for this could be that keratin does not fossilise well. Based on grooves and notches found on the fossil's jaw, they believe that the reptile had soft tissue which must've served as baleen. Talking to Reuters, co-author of the research, palaeontologist Mike Benton of the University of Bristol in England said: "Altogether, this points to a soft pouch made of skin around the mouth and throat, as in modern baleen whales, and some kind of filtering device hanging from the jaws, like baleen - but the 'baleen' and skin are not preserved." The research was published on Monday in the journal BMC Ecology and Evolution. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Scientists unearth 248 million-years-old marine reptile that shared this curious similarity to whales

Human ancestry is often taken as a done and dusted topic by the layperson. However, that is far from true. Adding to the mystery, an ancient skull is now baffling scientists with its not-so-similar features to the modern human.

The mysterious skull, as per a Science Alert article, belongs to a child that was alive around 300,000 years ago.&nbsp;

Experts at the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) working alongside researchers from China's Xi'an Jiaotong University, the UK's University of York, and Spain's National Research Center on Human Evolution say that this could potentially be the discovery of a new branch of humans.

<h2>The mind-blowing discovery</h2>

The skull in question was discovered in 2019. Alongside it, researchers also found a jaw and leg bones. The findings were uncovered in East China's Hualondong and belong to a child between the ages of 12 and 13 years.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/researchers-use-monkey-poop-to-gain-insight-into-mating-strategies-of-critically-endangered-muriquis-622490">Researchers use monkey poop to gain insight into mating strategies of critically endangered muriquis</a>

What baffles scientists is the fact that they can't match it to any known human lineage. The skull doesn't resemble Neanderthals, Denisovans, or us (the modern human). Yet, it does have some matching features to different lineages. This means that the hominin or the human family tree may need another branch.&nbsp;

<h2>I see you in me</h2>

The skull, which is a nearly complete with a partial cranium and a nearly complete mandible, as per the research published in the Journal of Human Evolution, is similarly structured to the modern human lineage.&nbsp;

In their analysis, the authors write that while its face has modern-human like features, the limbs, skull cap, and jaw "seem to reflect more primitive traits."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/human-genes-can-be-controlled-with-electricity-experiment-reveals-622322">Human genes can be controlled with electricity, experiment reveals</a>

Furthermore, it lacks a chin, which is reminiscent of a Denisovan, a lineage that once existed in Asia and is now extinct.

This complicates the process of identification. The skull seems to be a mosaic of physical features, and points to the co-existence of three different lineages in Asia — H. erectus, Denisovan, and this new lineage which is "phylogenetically close" to us.&nbsp;

<h2>What is this new human called?</h2>

Scientists are yet to classify this purportedly new lineage of hominin. For now, they've now labelled it HLD 6 — here HLD represents Hualongdong where the skull was found.

Homo sapiens, or "wise humans" only appeared in China around 120,000 years ago.

The skull discovered by experts, as per researchers at CAS may be the historic uncovering of an entirely new lineage–a hybrid between the branch that gave us modern humans and the branch that gave us other ancient hominins in the region.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Human ancestry is often taken as a done and dusted topic by the layperson. However, that is far from true. Adding to the mystery, an ancient skull is now baffling scientists with its not-so-similar features to the modern human.

Human ancestry is often taken as a done and dusted topic by the layperson. However, that is far from true. Adding to the mystery, an ancient skull is now baffling scientists with its not-so-similar features to the modern human. The mysterious skull, as per a Science Alert article, belongs to a child that was alive around 300,000 years ago. Experts at the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) working alongside researchers from China's Xi'an Jiaotong University, the UK's University of York, and Spain's National Research Center on Human Evolution say that this could potentially be the discovery of a new branch of humans. The mind-blowing discovery The skull in question was discovered in 2019. Alongside it, researchers also found a jaw and leg bones. The findings were uncovered in East China's Hualondong and belong to a child between the ages of 12 and 13 years. Also read | Researchers use monkey poop to gain insight into mating strategies of critically endangered muriquis What baffles scientists is the fact that they can't match it to any known human lineage. The skull doesn't resemble Neanderthals, Denisovans, or us (the modern human). Yet, it does have some matching features to different lineages. This means that the hominin or the human family tree may need another branch. I see you in me The skull, which is a nearly complete with a partial cranium and a nearly complete mandible, as per the research published in the Journal of Human Evolution, is similarly structured to the modern human lineage. In their analysis, the authors write that while its face has modern-human like features, the limbs, skull cap, and jaw "seem to reflect more primitive traits." Also read | Human genes can be controlled with electricity, experiment reveals Furthermore, it lacks a chin, which is reminiscent of a Denisovan, a lineage that once existed in Asia and is now extinct. This complicates the process of identification. The skull seems to be a mosaic of physical features, and points to the co-existence of three different lineages in Asia — H. erectus, Denisovan, and this new lineage which is "phylogenetically close" to us. What is this new human called? Scientists are yet to classify this purportedly new lineage of hominin. For now, they've now labelled it HLD 6 — here HLD represents Hualongdong where the skull was found. Homo sapiens, or "wise humans" only appeared in China around 120,000 years ago. The skull discovered by experts, as per researchers at CAS may be the historic uncovering of an entirely new lineage–a hybrid between the branch that gave us modern humans and the branch that gave us other ancient hominins in the region. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Newly-discovered skull in China baffles scientists. Is it yet another lineage of humans?

Search for the biggest animal to have ever lived on Earth and the internet will tell you it's the Blue Whale. However, scientists may have found a bigger contender that could dethrone the giants of the ocean.

On Wednesday, scientists shared an amazing find. In Peru, they have unearthed the fossil of an early whale called Perucetus colossus. The animal as per estimates lived about 38-40 million years ago during the Eocene epoch and may have even topped the mass of the blue whale which is long considered the heftiest animal on record.

<h2>Perucetus colossus</h2>

Researchers estimate that the Perucetus colossus was around 66 feet (20 metres long) and weighed up to 340 metric tonnes — this means it was heavier than today's blue whale and even the largest dinosaurs. Hence, the name, which literally means "colossal Peruvian whale".

The findings have been published in the journal Nature.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-confirm-jellyfish-who-existed-about-500-million-years-before-early-human-beings-621617">Scientists confirm jellyfish who existed about 500 million years before early human beings</a>

Lead author of the research, palaeontologist Giovanni Bianucci of the University of Pisa in Italy, as per Reuters remarked: "The main feature of this animal is certainly the extreme weight, which suggests that evolution can generate organisms that have characteristics that go beyond our imagination."

Perucetus, as per estimates, had a minimum mass of 85 tonnes, with an average estimate of 180 tonnes. Although the largest-known blue whale weighed approximately 190 tonnes, it was longer than Perucetus, measuring 110 feet (33.5 metres) in length.&nbsp;

Comparitively, Argentinosaurus, a plant-eating dinosaur that existed around 95 million years ago in Argentina, which as per a study published in May, was perhaps the most massive dinosaur was much smaller at an estimated weight of about 76 tonnes.

<h2>Where was the colossal whale found?</h2>

The partial skeleton was excavated from a coastal desert of southern Peru. The region, as per Reuters, is rich with whale fossils.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/switzerland-bronze-age-arrowhead-traced-to-object-that-fell-from-the-sky-621181">Switzerland: Bronze age arrowhead traced to 'object that fell from the sky'</a>

Scientists have as of now excavated with 13 vertebrae, four ribs and one hip bone of Perucetus colossus. The bones were found to be unusually voluminous, and extremely dense and compact.&nbsp;The skeletal mass alone is an estimated five and eight tonnes, which is at least twice that of the blue whale.

However, researchers are yet to stumble upon its cranial or tooth remains. This means we have no idea about its diet or lifestyle.&nbsp;Bianucci suggests that it is possible that this creature was "herbivorous like the sirenians, but this would be the only case among cetaceans. Perhaps it fed on small mollusks and crustaceans in sandy bottoms like the extant gray whale. Or it could have been a scavenger on vertebrate carcasses, similar to some extant large-body sharks."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Search for the biggest animal to have ever lived on Earth and the internet will tell you it's the Blue Whale. However, scientists may have found a bigger contender that could dethrone the giants of the ocean.

Search for the biggest animal to have ever lived on Earth and the internet will tell you it's the Blue Whale. However, scientists may have found a bigger contender that could dethrone the giants of the ocean. On Wednesday, scientists shared an amazing find. In Peru, they have unearthed the fossil of an early whale called Perucetus colossus. The animal as per estimates lived about 38-40 million years ago during the Eocene epoch and may have even topped the mass of the blue whale which is long considered the heftiest animal on record. Perucetus colossus Researchers estimate that the Perucetus colossus was around 66 feet (20 metres long) and weighed up to 340 metric tonnes — this means it was heavier than today's blue whale and even the largest dinosaurs. Hence, the name, which literally means "colossal Peruvian whale". The findings have been published in the journal Nature. Also read | Scientists confirm jellyfish who existed about 500 million years before early human beings Lead author of the research, palaeontologist Giovanni Bianucci of the University of Pisa in Italy, as per Reuters remarked: "The main feature of this animal is certainly the extreme weight, which suggests that evolution can generate organisms that have characteristics that go beyond our imagination." Perucetus, as per estimates, had a minimum mass of 85 tonnes, with an average estimate of 180 tonnes. Although the largest-known blue whale weighed approximately 190 tonnes, it was longer than Perucetus, measuring 110 feet (33.5 metres) in length. Comparitively, Argentinosaurus, a plant-eating dinosaur that existed around 95 million years ago in Argentina, which as per a study published in May, was perhaps the most massive dinosaur was much smaller at an estimated weight of about 76 tonnes. Where was the colossal whale found? The partial skeleton was excavated from a coastal desert of southern Peru. The region, as per Reuters, is rich with whale fossils. Also read | Switzerland: Bronze age arrowhead traced to 'object that fell from the sky' Scientists have as of now excavated with 13 vertebrae, four ribs and one hip bone of Perucetus colossus. The bones were found to be unusually voluminous, and extremely dense and compact. The skeletal mass alone is an estimated five and eight tonnes, which is at least twice that of the blue whale. However, researchers are yet to stumble upon its cranial or tooth remains. This means we have no idea about its diet or lifestyle. Bianucci suggests that it is possible that this creature was "herbivorous like the sirenians, but this would be the only case among cetaceans. Perhaps it fed on small mollusks and crustaceans in sandy bottoms like the extant gray whale. Or it could have been a scavenger on vertebrate carcasses, similar to some extant large-body sharks." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Not blue whale, this 40mn-year-old animal is largest ever to have lived on Earth

An ancient Bronze Age arrowhead discovered in Switzerland in the 19th century has revealed an unexpected origin - it is&nbsp;made of&nbsp;iron that fell from the sky.

The arrowhead, as per findings published in the Journal of Archaeological Science, was made from a meteorite. But that's not all, scientists have also made another surprising discovery that can help further our understanding of the prehistoric humans.&nbsp;

<h2>Sky iron from afar</h2>

As per a report in Science Alert, what's more intriguing about this find is that the meteorite likely originated from as far away as Estonia. This, as per scientists, highlights the extensive trade networks that existed thousands of years ago.

The amazing find was made by Geologist Beda Hofmann from the Natural History Museum of Bern and the University of Bern, who led a search for ancient artefacts made of meteoritic iron.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-rare-brain-eating-amoeba-haunts-us-kills-georgia-resident-621100">Explained | Rare 'brain-eating amoeba' haunts US, kills Georgia resident&nbsp;</a>

<h2>Meteorites and prehistoric times</h2>

Pure iron was a scarce resource in prehistoric times, so our ancestors used iron from meteorites that had fallen to Earth.&nbsp;For this, they used iron meteorites, which are more commonly found due to their ability to withstand atmospheric entry.&nbsp;

These mainly consist of iron, with small amounts of nickel and other metals.&nbsp;As per the report, it is presumed that almost all Bronze Age iron tools and weapons are made of these meteorites.

<h2>Europe and prehistoric iron artefacts</h2>

Most meteoritic iron artefacts have been found in the Middle East, Egypt, and Asia. However, a few have been discovered across Europe.&nbsp;

The settlement of Mörigen in Switzerland, who were thriving during the Bronze Age around 800 to 900 BCE, presented a promising location for such discoveries. It is close to the Twannberg field, known for meteoritic iron fragments from an ancient impact dating to before the last ice age.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-find-some-gigantic-viruses-in-soil-samples-621141">Scientists find some 'gigantic' viruses in soil samples</a>

Among objects previously excavated from Mörigen, Hofmann's team found a lone iron arrowhead.&nbsp;

It had the characteristic iron and nickel composition of meteoritic iron, along with traces of smoking gun or radioactive aluminum-26, which forms only in space. However, the mix of metals in the arrowhead did not match those in the local meteoritic iron.

This, as per Science Alert, indicated that it belonged to a specific class of iron meteorite called IAB meteorites.

<h2>Why is this discovery important?</h2>

Narrowing down the sources, the researchers believe the arrowhead best matches Kaalijarv, an IAB meteorite that fell around 1500 BCE and scattered fragments suitable for reshaping into arrowheads.&nbsp;

What's surprising is Kaalijarv's location, which is approximately 994 miles or 1,600 kilometres away from Mörigen. This suggests it possibly travelled enormous distances through ancient trade routes.

(With inputs from agencies)

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An ancient Bronze Age arrowhead discovered in Switzerland in the 19th century has revealed an unexpected origin - it is made of iron that fell from the sky. The arrowhead, as per findings published in the Journal of Archaeological Science, was made from a meteorite.

An ancient Bronze Age arrowhead discovered in Switzerland in the 19th century has revealed an unexpected origin - it is made of iron that fell from the sky. The arrowhead, as per findings published in the Journal of Archaeological Science, was made from a meteorite. But that's not all, scientists have also made another surprising discovery that can help further our understanding of the prehistoric humans. Sky iron from afar As per a report in Science Alert, what's more intriguing about this find is that the meteorite likely originated from as far away as Estonia. This, as per scientists, highlights the extensive trade networks that existed thousands of years ago. The amazing find was made by Geologist Beda Hofmann from the Natural History Museum of Bern and the University of Bern, who led a search for ancient artefacts made of meteoritic iron. Also read | Explained | Rare 'brain-eating amoeba' haunts US, kills Georgia resident Meteorites and prehistoric times Pure iron was a scarce resource in prehistoric times, so our ancestors used iron from meteorites that had fallen to Earth. For this, they used iron meteorites, which are more commonly found due to their ability to withstand atmospheric entry. These mainly consist of iron, with small amounts of nickel and other metals. As per the report, it is presumed that almost all Bronze Age iron tools and weapons are made of these meteorites. Europe and prehistoric iron artefacts Most meteoritic iron artefacts have been found in the Middle East, Egypt, and Asia. However, a few have been discovered across Europe. The settlement of Mörigen in Switzerland, who were thriving during the Bronze Age around 800 to 900 BCE, presented a promising location for such discoveries. It is close to the Twannberg field, known for meteoritic iron fragments from an ancient impact dating to before the last ice age. Also read | Scientists find some 'gigantic' viruses in soil samples Among objects previously excavated from Mörigen, Hofmann's team found a lone iron arrowhead. It had the characteristic iron and nickel composition of meteoritic iron, along with traces of smoking gun or radioactive aluminum-26, which forms only in space. However, the mix of metals in the arrowhead did not match those in the local meteoritic iron. This, as per Science Alert, indicated that it belonged to a specific class of iron meteorite called IAB meteorites. Why is this discovery important? Narrowing down the sources, the researchers believe the arrowhead best matches Kaalijarv, an IAB meteorite that fell around 1500 BCE and scattered fragments suitable for reshaping into arrowheads. What's surprising is Kaalijarv's location, which is approximately 994 miles or 1,600 kilometres away from Mörigen. This suggests it possibly travelled enormous distances through ancient trade routes. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Switzerland: Bronze age arrowhead traced to 'object that fell from the sky'

Depending on whether you believe in the concept of heaven and hell, this news might interest you. In the United Kingdom, a rare seal that can offer you a fast track to heaven or lessen your time in purgatory is going up for sale.

The seal, as per a report in The Guardian, was used to authenticate "indulgences" or written pardons for a person's sinful behaviour.

<h2>Centuries old seal&nbsp;</h2>

As per the report, the seal which was found by a metal detectorist just two miles from Mottisfont, an Augustinian priory and site of pilgrimage near Romsey, Hampshire, dates back to the 15th-16th century.

Estimates suggest that it dates&nbsp;between 1470 and 1520. It reportedly spent some 500 years buried in the field before it was discovered.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sword-and-mirror-unite-ancient-grave-sheds-light-on-female-warriors-during-iron-age-in-britain-620027">Sword and mirror unite: Ancient grave sheds light on female warriors during Iron Age in Britain</a>

Religious institutions would grant these pardons in exchange for monetary donations. They were supposed to lessen — by one year and 40 days, an individual's time in purgatory after their death.

George Roberts, curator at the National Trust, said: "All this was done to help secure a place in heaven after their death. However, before they could reach heaven, they believed they would need to spend time in purgatory to be purified."

<h2>A pardon in exchange for money</h2>

Indulgences were written pardons that gained popularity in the medieval times.&nbsp;

The document certifying this purchase was certified with a stamp or impression that was created using the seat matrix pressed into hot coloured wax.

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From left to right in the picture, the money collector, seal maker, and cardinal are depicted during the 1517 sale of indulgences.

Mottisfont, the priory near which this seal was found in 1201. The wealthy institution saw its income deplete as a result of the Black Death plague that swept through Europe in the 1340s.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/exquisitely-preserved-fossil-forest-from-late-miocene-epoch-found-in-japan-619245">Exquisitely preserved fossil forest from late Miocene epoch found in Japan</a>

Following this, the pope granted the institution permission to sell indulgences to raise funds.

"By being able to sell indulgences, Mottisfont priory could offer people a reduction in their time in purgatory—in effect, fast-tracking them to heaven. This of course came with a price, which was then used to support the priory’s finances," says Roberts.

However, as per the Guardian, the practice of selling these pardons became embroiled in accusations of corruptions that helped fuel the Protestant Reformation. With the dissolution of monasteries in 1536, Mottisfont too closed as a priory.

The rare seal matrix is made of cast copper-alloy. It has an inscription in Latin&nbsp;'sigillu[m] officii prioris p[ri]oretas sce trinitat[is] de Motesfont,' which means Seal of the Official of the Prior of the Priory of Mottisfont`&nbsp;and also features an inscription of the Trinity along with a figure of a praying cleric. It is now owned by the National Trust and will go on display at Mottisfont in&nbsp;Hampshire starting Sunday. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Depending on whether you believe in the concept of heaven and hell, this news might interest you. In the United Kingdom, a rare seal that can offer you a fast track to heaven or lessen your time in purgatory is going up for sale.

Depending on whether you believe in the concept of heaven and hell, this news might interest you. In the United Kingdom, a rare seal that can offer you a fast track to heaven or lessen your time in purgatory is going up for sale. The seal, as per a report in The Guardian, was used to authenticate "indulgences" or written pardons for a person's sinful behaviour. Centuries old seal As per the report, the seal which was found by a metal detectorist just two miles from Mottisfont, an Augustinian priory and site of pilgrimage near Romsey, Hampshire, dates back to the 15th-16th century. Estimates suggest that it dates between 1470 and 1520. It reportedly spent some 500 years buried in the field before it was discovered. Also read | Sword and mirror unite: Ancient grave sheds light on female warriors during Iron Age in Britain Religious institutions would grant these pardons in exchange for monetary donations. They were supposed to lessen — by one year and 40 days, an individual's time in purgatory after their death. George Roberts, curator at the National Trust, said: "All this was done to help secure a place in heaven after their death. However, before they could reach heaven, they believed they would need to spend time in purgatory to be purified." A pardon in exchange for money Indulgences were written pardons that gained popularity in the medieval times. The document certifying this purchase was certified with a stamp or impression that was created using the seat matrix pressed into hot coloured wax. From left to right in the picture, the money collector, seal maker, and cardinal are depicted during the 1517 sale of indulgences. Mottisfont, the priory near which this seal was found in 1201. The wealthy institution saw its income deplete as a result of the Black Death plague that swept through Europe in the 1340s. Also read | Exquisitely preserved fossil forest from late Miocene epoch found in Japan Following this, the pope granted the institution permission to sell indulgences to raise funds. "By being able to sell indulgences, Mottisfont priory could offer people a reduction in their time in purgatory—in effect, fast-tracking them to heaven. This of course came with a price, which was then used to support the priory’s finances," says Roberts. However, as per the Guardian, the practice of selling these pardons became embroiled in accusations of corruptions that helped fuel the Protestant Reformation. With the dissolution of monasteries in 1536, Mottisfont too closed as a priory. The rare seal matrix is made of cast copper-alloy. It has an inscription in Latin 'sigillu[m] officii prioris p[ri]oretas sce trinitat[is] de Motesfont,' which means Seal of the Official of the Prior of the Priory of Mottisfont` and also features an inscription of the Trinity along with a figure of a praying cleric. It is now owned by the National Trust and will go on display at Mottisfont in Hampshire starting Sunday. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Medieval seal that can help fast track a person's entry into heaven to put on display in UK

Archaeologists are digging a remote site in Nebraska in hope to find remains of missing indigenous children who died in boarding schools in the 1880s and early 1900s. The children were separated from their families and often died under mysterious circumstances. Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas: Missing Indigenous Children: Archaeologists dig remote site in Nebraska

Archaeologists have discovered a 2,000-year-old fresco painting which depicts what may be called the Italian pizza's ancient ancestor in the ruined city of Pompeii, said Italy's Culture Ministry on Tuesday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

According to the archaeologists, the flatbread seen in the fresco near the wine goblet was being eaten by ancestors with fruits like pomegranate or dates and dressed with a particular kind of pesto sauce and spices, added the ministry. However, the pizza-looking food item appears without the cheese and tomatoes.

The image of the flatbread was painted with the use of the fresco technique, where the painting is done on wet lime plaster by the artist.&nbsp;

The Oxford Dictionary defines fresco as "a painting done rapidly in watercolour on wet plaster on a wall or ceiling so that the colours penetrate the plaster and become fixed as it dries."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/archaeologists-unearth-4000-year-old-stonehenge-burial-ground-in-the-netherlands-608203">Archaeologists unearth 4,000-year-old ‘Stonehenge’ burial ground in the Netherlands</a>

The painting was discovered on the wall of an ancient house in Pompeii, a city which was destroyed nearly 2,000 years ago by an eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

"What was depicted on the wall of an ancient Pompeian house could be a distant ancestor of the modern dish," stated the experts at the archaeological park in a statement.&nbsp;

It is believed that the fresco refers to the 'hospitable gifts' which are offered to guests as per a Greek tradition which dates back to the 3rd to 1st centuries BC and has been described in detail by imperial Roman-era writers which include Philostratus and Virgil.&nbsp;

<h2>Pizza born as a 'poor man's dish'?</h2>

Pompeii's director Gabriel Zuchtriegel said the newly-discovered fresco displays the contrast between "a frugal and simple meal, which refers to a sphere between the bucolic and the sacred... and the luxury of silver trays and the refinement of artistic and literary representations."&nbsp;

"How can we fail to think, in this regard, of pizza, also born as a "poor" dish in southern Italy, which has now conquered the world and is also served in starred restaurants," he further stated.

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An atrium of a house was revealed in the new excavations which included an annexe with a bakery. "In the working areas near the oven, the skeletons of three victims have been found in the past weeks," added the experts.

"Pompeii never ceases to amaze. It is a casket that always reveals new treasures" stated Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano.

Almost 2,000 years ago, Mount Vesuvius volcano's eruption had destroyed the city of Pompeii. Since then, the city was lost to the time till it was rediscovered in the 16th century and since then, has seen a surge in archaeological activities.

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Archaeologists have discovered a 2,000-year-old fresco painting which depicts what may be called the Italian pizza's ancient ancestor in the ruined city of Pompeii, said Italy's Culture Ministry on Tuesday.

Archaeologists have discovered a 2,000-year-old fresco painting which depicts what may be called the Italian pizza's ancient ancestor in the ruined city of Pompeii, said Italy's Culture Ministry on Tuesday. According to the archaeologists, the flatbread seen in the fresco near the wine goblet was being eaten by ancestors with fruits like pomegranate or dates and dressed with a particular kind of pesto sauce and spices, added the ministry. However, the pizza-looking food item appears without the cheese and tomatoes. The image of the flatbread was painted with the use of the fresco technique, where the painting is done on wet lime plaster by the artist. The Oxford Dictionary defines fresco as "a painting done rapidly in watercolour on wet plaster on a wall or ceiling so that the colours penetrate the plaster and become fixed as it dries." ALSO READ | Archaeologists unearth 4,000-year-old ‘Stonehenge’ burial ground in the Netherlands The painting was discovered on the wall of an ancient house in Pompeii, a city which was destroyed nearly 2,000 years ago by an eruption of Mount Vesuvius. "What was depicted on the wall of an ancient Pompeian house could be a distant ancestor of the modern dish," stated the experts at the archaeological park in a statement. It is believed that the fresco refers to the 'hospitable gifts' which are offered to guests as per a Greek tradition which dates back to the 3rd to 1st centuries BC and has been described in detail by imperial Roman-era writers which include Philostratus and Virgil. Pizza born as a 'poor man's dish'? Pompeii's director Gabriel Zuchtriegel said the newly-discovered fresco displays the contrast between "a frugal and simple meal, which refers to a sphere between the bucolic and the sacred... and the luxury of silver trays and the refinement of artistic and literary representations." "How can we fail to think, in this regard, of pizza, also born as a "poor" dish in southern Italy, which has now conquered the world and is also served in starred restaurants," he further stated. WATCH | Gravitas: Egypt bans Dutch archaeologists over Beyonce's Egyptian outfit An atrium of a house was revealed in the new excavations which included an annexe with a bakery. "In the working areas near the oven, the skeletons of three victims have been found in the past weeks," added the experts. "Pompeii never ceases to amaze. It is a casket that always reveals new treasures" stated Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano. Almost 2,000 years ago, Mount Vesuvius volcano's eruption had destroyed the city of Pompeii. Since then, the city was lost to the time till it was rediscovered in the 16th century and since then, has seen a surge in archaeological activities. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

A pizza history | Archaeologists discover painting of pizza's 'ancestor' in ruins of Pompeii

Archaeologists recently discovered a 4,000-year-old religious burial ground in the Netherlands, which has been dubbed as the "Stonehenge of the Netherlands”. 
 
The mound discovered is 65 feet in diameter and contains the remains of around 60 men, women and children, as reported by Phys.org. The burial ground has several passages through which the sun would shine directly on the winter and summer solstices, which are the longest and shortest days of the year. 
 
The town of Tiel, which is 45 miles east of Rotterdam, was discovered by archaeologists after six years of digging.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netherlands-proposing-curbs-on-english-language-courses-in-universities-report-606996">Netherlands proposing curbs on English-language courses in universities: Report</a>

Taking to its Facebook page, the town of Tiel said, “What a spectacular archaeological discovery! Archaeologists have found a 4,000-year-old religious sanctuary on an industrial site. This is the first time a site like this has been discovered in the Netherlands.”

<h2 lang="en-US">Another Stonehenge</h2>

“The largest mound served as a sun calendar, similar to the famous stones of Stonehenge in England,” the town said in a statement, as per Reuters. 
 
The archaeologists were also able to find offerings of both human and animal skulls as well as valuables like a bronze spearhead from the spots where the sun beamed directly. 
 
“This sanctuary must have been a highly significant place where people kept track of special days in the year, performed rituals and buried their dead. Rows of poles stood along pathways used for processions,” the town stated. 
 
Meanwhile, the national broadcaster NOS said, “This hill reminded one of Stonehenge, the well-known mysterious prehistoric monument in Britain, where this phenomenon also occurs.”

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Netherlands and Norway extend support to Ukraine

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<h2 lang="en-US">Two smaller mounds, glass beads among other discoveries</h2>

The archaeologists also discovered two other smaller mounds which were being used for burial rituals and were estimated to have been used for around 800 years. The archaeologists added that in those times, the calendar was being used mainly to check harvest and festival days. 
 
In the excavation, the experts also found a glass bead, which is said to have originated from Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq) in the area. “This bead travelled a distance of some 5,000 kilometres, four millennia ago,” said chief researcher Cristian van der Linde said. 
 
University of Groningen professor Stijn Arnoldussen said, “The bead must have been a spectacular item as for people then it was an unknown material.” 
 
“Things were already being exchanged in those times. The bead may have been above ground for hundreds of years before it reached Tiel, but of course, it didn’t have to be,” Arnoldussen stated. 
&nbsp;

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Archaeologists recently discovered a 4,000-year-old religious burial ground in the Netherlands, which has been dubbed as the "Stonehenge of the Netherlands”. The mound discovered is 65 feet in diameter and contains the remains of around 60 men, women and children, as reported by Phys.

Archaeologists recently discovered a 4,000-year-old religious burial ground in the Netherlands, which has been dubbed as the "Stonehenge of the Netherlands”. The mound discovered is 65 feet in diameter and contains the remains of around 60 men, women and children, as reported by Phys.org. The burial ground has several passages through which the sun would shine directly on the winter and summer solstices, which are the longest and shortest days of the year. The town of Tiel, which is 45 miles east of Rotterdam, was discovered by archaeologists after six years of digging. ALSO READ | Netherlands proposing curbs on English-language courses in universities: Report Taking to its Facebook page, the town of Tiel said, “What a spectacular archaeological discovery! Archaeologists have found a 4,000-year-old religious sanctuary on an industrial site. This is the first time a site like this has been discovered in the Netherlands.” Another Stonehenge “The largest mound served as a sun calendar, similar to the famous stones of Stonehenge in England,” the town said in a statement, as per Reuters. The archaeologists were also able to find offerings of both human and animal skulls as well as valuables like a bronze spearhead from the spots where the sun beamed directly. “This sanctuary must have been a highly significant place where people kept track of special days in the year, performed rituals and buried their dead. Rows of poles stood along pathways used for processions,” the town stated. Meanwhile, the national broadcaster NOS said, “This hill reminded one of Stonehenge, the well-known mysterious prehistoric monument in Britain, where this phenomenon also occurs.” WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war: Netherlands and Norway extend support to Ukraine Two smaller mounds, glass beads among other discoveries The archaeologists also discovered two other smaller mounds which were being used for burial rituals and were estimated to have been used for around 800 years. The archaeologists added that in those times, the calendar was being used mainly to check harvest and festival days. In the excavation, the experts also found a glass bead, which is said to have originated from Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq) in the area. “This bead travelled a distance of some 5,000 kilometres, four millennia ago,” said chief researcher Cristian van der Linde said. University of Groningen professor Stijn Arnoldussen said, “The bead must have been a spectacular item as for people then it was an unknown material.” “Things were already being exchanged in those times. The bead may have been above ground for hundreds of years before it reached Tiel, but of course, it didn’t have to be,” Arnoldussen stated. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Archaeologists unearth 4,000-year-old ‘Stonehenge’ burial ground in the Netherlands

According to the archaeologists an ancient oblong artefact, which dates back to 42,000 years, has a carving over it which suspiciously looks penis-like. Some of them also believe that the artefact can be one of the earliest phallic figurines discovered in the world.&nbsp;

However, all researchers are not convinced by the observation, as all penis-like objects are not created with genitals in mind.

<h2>Rather shapeless, says archaeologist&nbsp;</h2>

Boston University archaeologist Curtis Runnels, speaking to Science Alert, said that the ornament looks "rather shapeless", however, it is hard to disagree with the observation at first glance.&nbsp;

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University of Bordeaux's archaeologist Solange Rigaud and her colleagues stated that blob-like or not, the truth of the artefact lies in the details.

The grooved ornament, which has been given the tag T21, was originally discovered at an archaeological site in Mongolia in 2016. Recently, experts gave a closer look at the object which is estimated to be roughly between 39,500 and 42,200 years old, which suggests that it was created in the Upper Paleolithic period.

Two grooves have been made on the ornament's four-centimetre (1.6-inch) long body using a pointy stone tool. The deepest groove has been wrapped around the ornament's midsection, while the other groove has been carved short and deep from the top to the bottom of the ornament.&nbsp;

According to the researchers, the former incision was designed to show the glans of a penis, while they carved the latter incision with the intention to create a urethral opening.

<h2>Used as a tool?</h2>

The same features were observed in a 20-centimetre-long stone pebble which was discovered in Germany that is 28,000 years old and is believed to be one of the earliest representations of male sexuality ever discovered. The experts suspected that it may have been used as a tool, possibly to knap flints.

Even though the artefact from Mongolia remains unclear, if the archaeologists are correct about the fact that the design is&nbsp;similar to a penis, it can turn out to be human genitalia's earliest symbolic use found anywhere.

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Egypt bans Dutch archaeologists over Beyonce's Egyptian outfit

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The ornament's 'backside is flattened out and appears shiny and smooth, which makes researchers believe that it was worn probably on someone's chest and was held using a cord wrapped around the middle groove.

"Overall, the use-wear pattern is consistent with the suspension of the pendant in contact with soft material for an extended period," the researchers stated.&nbsp;

You can&nbsp;now write for&nbsp;wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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According to the archaeologists an ancient oblong artefact, which dates back to 42,000 years, has a carving over it which suspiciously looks penis-like. Some of them also believe that the artefact can be one of the earliest phallic figurines discovered in the world.

According to the archaeologists an ancient oblong artefact, which dates back to 42,000 years, has a carving over it which suspiciously looks penis-like. Some of them also believe that the artefact can be one of the earliest phallic figurines discovered in the world. However, all researchers are not convinced by the observation, as all penis-like objects are not created with genitals in mind. Rather shapeless, says archaeologist Boston University archaeologist Curtis Runnels, speaking to Science Alert, said that the ornament looks "rather shapeless", however, it is hard to disagree with the observation at first glance. ALSO READ | What was the actual use of this six-inch 'stone penis' in medieval Spain? University of Bordeaux's archaeologist Solange Rigaud and her colleagues stated that blob-like or not, the truth of the artefact lies in the details. The grooved ornament, which has been given the tag T21, was originally discovered at an archaeological site in Mongolia in 2016. Recently, experts gave a closer look at the object which is estimated to be roughly between 39,500 and 42,200 years old, which suggests that it was created in the Upper Paleolithic period. Two grooves have been made on the ornament's four-centimetre (1.6-inch) long body using a pointy stone tool. The deepest groove has been wrapped around the ornament's midsection, while the other groove has been carved short and deep from the top to the bottom of the ornament. According to the researchers, the former incision was designed to show the glans of a penis, while they carved the latter incision with the intention to create a urethral opening. Used as a tool? The same features were observed in a 20-centimetre-long stone pebble which was discovered in Germany that is 28,000 years old and is believed to be one of the earliest representations of male sexuality ever discovered. The experts suspected that it may have been used as a tool, possibly to knap flints. Even though the artefact from Mongolia remains unclear, if the archaeologists are correct about the fact that the design is similar to a penis, it can turn out to be human genitalia's earliest symbolic use found anywhere. WATCH | Gravitas: Egypt bans Dutch archaeologists over Beyonce's Egyptian outfit The ornament's 'backside is flattened out and appears shiny and smooth, which makes researchers believe that it was worn probably on someone's chest and was held using a cord wrapped around the middle groove. "Overall, the use-wear pattern is consistent with the suspension of the pendant in contact with soft material for an extended period," the researchers stated. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

This ancient 'penis-like' blob is oldest Phallic depiction, archaeologists believe

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