In ancient history, there is a whole world waiting to be discovered. In architectural digs, we stumble across some of the most precious items in time, unwittingly opening the doors onto a lost aspect of ancient civilization. These historical facts are some of the most precious to ever have been uncovered and by looking at them even more closely, we can begin to understand that little bit more about the rich cultures that lie in wait.
- The Importance Of War
(source: blog.voyagestoantiquity.com)
After discovering numerous items in important Minoan digs, archaeologist Barry Molloy came to a very important discovery. The material remains in question depicted scenes of war and violence unlike any ever seen, leading Molloy to believe that war was more than just a way of settling disputes. Due to the prevalence of the pieces, it seemed as if war existed as an important social construct for the Minoans. Primary expressions of male identity were tied up in battles and weapons played a huge symbolic role in the culture. This insight has educated many archaeological digs, helping professionals understand more about the lost civilization.
- The Collapse Of Easter Island
(source: travel.nationalgeographic.com)
Ancient home to one of the most powerful civilizations in history, Easter Island off the coast of Chile is still brimming with mystery. Initially, archaeologists believed that stacks of unearthed flint pieces pointed to the fact that the island’s population disappeared as a result of war. However, new evidence on the objects has uncovered a very different truth. In depth analysis has revealed that the items weren’t used in warfare at all, and could have instead helped with cultural activities. The collapse of Easter Island, then, is just as much of a mystery as it always was, baffling professionals the world over.
- The Beer Makers
(source: pinterest.com)
The Wari were an ancient civilization that predated the Incas. Living in the Andes, the civilization were at the top of their game for a few hundred years before mysteriously coming to an end. While reasons as to why they disappeared have not been found, a number of details about the way they lived has come to light. Writings found from the Wari have revealed that the culture’s elite women were responsible for brewing the local beer stores. Made from peppertree berries and corn, the drink was called chicha, prepared in huge quantities.
- Self-Inflicted Decline
(source: funbuzztime.com)
While a number of civilizations have mysteriously disappeared from the face of the planet, others met their end in very familiar ways. Take the Nazca civilization. An ancient and advanced culture in Peru, the Nazca mysteriously fell from grace and for years, professionals couldn’t pin down the point of their collapse. Thanks to new findings, however, researchers believe they might have found the answer. The ancient Nazca cut down huge stretches of forest in order to make way for crops. The mass deforestation, however, caused huge damage to the environment, increasing flooding and damaging the irrigation systems. It is likely due to this that the civilization collapsed, leaving little behind in its wake.