The China Media Group (CMG) has unveiled the top 10 domestic and international archaeological discoveries of 2024, showcasing groundbreaking findings that shed new light on human history and cultural heritage. From ancient relics unearthed in China to remarkable discoveries across the globe, these findings have captivated scholars, enthusiasts, and the general public alike.
Top 10 Archaeological Discoveries of 2024
1. Discovery of an Ancient Tomb in Xi’an
Archaeologists in Xi’an, the historic capital of several Chinese dynasties, uncovered a tomb dating back to the Han Dynasty. The tomb contains exquisite artifacts, including jade ornaments and silk textiles, providing new insights into ancient burial practices.
2. Unearthing of a 5,000-Year-Old City in Zhejiang Province
A prehistoric city believed to be over 5,000 years old was discovered in Zhejiang Province. The well-preserved infrastructure, including remnants of walls and dwellings, offers valuable information about early urban development in China.
3. New Findings at the Sanxingdui Ruins in Sichuan
Excavations at the Sanxingdui Ruins revealed a new sacrificial pit filled with bronze masks, gold artifacts, and ivory relics. These findings further illuminate the mysterious Shu civilization and its unique cultural practices.
4. Preservation of the Great Wall’s Hidden Section in Hebei
A previously undocumented section of the Great Wall was discovered in Hebei Province. Conservation efforts are underway to preserve this segment, which offers a rare glimpse into the construction techniques of ancient China.
5. Bronze Age Artifacts Found in Inner Mongolia
Researchers uncovered a trove of Bronze Age artifacts in Inner Mongolia, including weapons, tools, and ceremonial items. The discoveries contribute significantly to understanding the cultural exchanges along the ancient grassland Silk Road.
6. Egyptian Mummy with Unprecedented Burial Artifacts
In Egypt, a mummy adorned with intricate burial masks and amulets was unearthed in the Valley of the Kings. The artifacts provide new perspectives on ancient Egyptian beliefs about the afterlife.
7. Unveiling of a Viking Ship Burial in Norway
A well-preserved Viking ship burial was discovered in Norway, containing the remains of a high-ranking individual and elaborate grave goods. The find offers invaluable insights into Viking rituals and societal structures.
8. Discovery of an Ancient Mayan City in Guatemala
Using advanced LIDAR technology, archaeologists revealed a vast Mayan city hidden beneath the Guatemalan jungle. The site includes pyramids, plazas, and a complex network of roads, reshaping our understanding of Mayan civilization.
9. New Insights from the Stonehenge Complex in the UK
Excavations near Stonehenge uncovered another ring of ancient pits, suggesting the area’s significance extended beyond the monument itself. These findings offer fresh theories about the site’s purpose and its builders.
10. Underwater Ruins Discovered off the Coast of Japan
Divers exploring off the coast of Japan found submerged structures believed to be remnants of an ancient civilization. The intricate stone formations could provide clues to Japan’s early history and the impact of rising sea levels.
These remarkable discoveries not only enrich our knowledge of ancient cultures but also highlight the importance of continued exploration and preservation of our global heritage. As technology advances, the field of archaeology is poised to unveil even more secrets of the past in the years to come.
Reference(s):
2024's top archaeological discoveries from China and the world
cgtn.com
