Our history is shaped by our ancestors who made them. It goes beyond written history, going as far as pre-history where there is no written record of it.
Our ancestors have left their mark for us to see and marvel at. While most of what they left can be understood with written and drawn records, others are left ambiguous to the mind. Here are 5 archaeological mysteries that remained a mystery.
1. Gunung Padang, Indonesia
Gunung Padang may be mistaken as a mountain, but after a closer examination is revealed to be a pyramid built by land. A megalithic site, archaeological surveys have placed the age of the site between 9,000 – 20,000 years old. If this is true, it would be the oldest settlement site in history, but scientists have cautioned over such claims.
There have been many speculations on the purpose of the site. A geologist said that it may have been a temple built for the purpose of worship or astronomy of the Sundanese people. Others speculate that it could be remnants of the long-lost, large kingdom that hold large powers. It is also not known how ancient people built a land pyramid at that time – considering the technology at that time was very ancient.
2. Herxheim, Germany
In 1996, construction workers were excavating a site in Herxheim, Germany to construct a building. What they discover instead was the skeletal remains of a family: Two adults and three children. As they excavate the site more, they discovered up to 1500 bodies buried.
When the analyze the remains of the victims, it was discovered that they were murdered between 5300 – 4960 BC. Some of the victims had been brutally murdered with their skull and limbs fractured, but others show no injuries. The flesh has been stripped off, and the bone marrow drained. The bones were smashed before being buried.
Archaeologists have discovered that in some of the people that were buried, they had a hold on to artifacts, potteries, and talisman. These artifacts were not local and originated far and wide, some as far as 500 km away.
Because of the way the bodies were found, archaeologists have speculated that the site was an “elephant graveyard” where the sick and dying would go to after going through numerous rituals. However, the brutal murders of other bodies remain unexplained.
3. Yonaguni Monument
What made this discovery even odd is that structure was found underwater, off the island of Yonaguni, Japan. It six meters down, surrounded by clear waters.
It was discovered in 1987 by a diver, who noted it’s sharp, square-like architecture. Subsequent exploration by scientists discovered that it resembles The Great Pyramids of Egypt. Later discoveries uncover remnants of a temple, archways, rock carvings, and pathways. Scientists took samples from the rock and discovered that the rock was 20 million years old, and the stonework was around 10,000 years old.
However, a dispute rose amongst scientists over whether the site is man-made or a natural formation. Further study of the site is hindered by strong currents.
4. Indus Valley Civilization
Existing between 3,300 BC to 1,300 BC, the Indus River Valley was the most widespread and peaceful ancient civilization in India. The civilization, which had an estimated population of 30 – 60 thousand people had very good living standards at that time. It had running water, good urban planning, elaborate drainage system and water supply. Surprisingly, the culture that they had here is different from the Indian culture that it has now.
However, the Indus civilization died out after 1,300 BC. Geologists blame changing soil quality and the draining of water; however, others are not sure. There are no signs to suggest that it was attacked by enemies.
5. Venus Figurines Of The Palaeolithic Era
These figurines are up to 35,000 years old!
Dated to the Palaeolithic period (up to 40,00 BC) numerous figurines like the one above were found across Europe. Many of these were found in caves, settlements, and mountains.
What is striking that despite being found across Europe, they had similar characteristics in them: curvaceous bodies, large breasts and bottoms, wide hips, large abdomens, and small heads. The arms and feet are often not shown. Some figures portray pregnant women, but others do not. Geologists have coined these figurines with the term “Venus Figurines,” after the Greek Goddess Venus, who represents love.
Many historians, archaeologists have put forward theories on the figurines. The figurines are fertility symbols, self-portraits, dolls, a portrayal of ancient women, ideal representation of female beauty, religious figures, mother goddess, or even pornography. A consensus among historians is that these figurines are a significant cultural, symbolic, and religious function of people at that time.
Which one of these do you find the most mysterious? Let us know in the comments!
Header Image : Ancient Origins | Harappa | Reddit | Ancient Origins |
