From the Roman “perforated jar” to the unexplained 1.8-meter stone spheres in Costa Rica, the origins and uses of some artifacts remain unknown, despite decades of study.
Archaeology is the art of discovering the past, but some artifacts cannot be fully explained even with modern techniques. Here are five mysterious artifacts that archaeologists are still puzzling over:
The Towie Ball: Scotland’s Neolithic Mystery
The Towie Ball, a Neolithic artifact from Scotland with intricate patterns on it, was discovered in 1860. Dating back about 5 thousand years, this artifact is a matter of great curiosity for archaeologists. This stone ball, whose purpose and use is still unknown, is just one of more than 430 similar artifacts found on the east coast of Scotland.
Antikythera Mechanism: A Complex Device from Ancient Greece
The Antikythera mechanism was built around 200 BC and found in a shipwreck near the Greek island of Antikythera in 1901. This ancient Greek analog computer, used to predict astronomical positions and solar eclipses, is also thought to have been used to track the four-year cycle of the Olympic Games. However, the exact purpose of the mechanism and how it worked is still under debate.
The Perforated Jar An Unsolvable Puzzle from Ancient Rome
Estimated to be 1800 years old, the Perforated Jar was broken into 180 pieces when it was found in Rome. Although it was reassembled after a long restoration process, its original purpose is still unclear. Some theories suggest that the jar was used to hide dormice, but this theory is not certain because it differs from other dormouse jars.
Roman Dodekaedrs Mysterious 12 Faced Objects
Roman dodecahedr, dating from the ancient Roman period and dating back about 2,000 years, are metal objects with 12 faces each. Found in various sizes and with various decorations, it is not clear what these objects were used for. Although they may have been used for astrological, religious, measuring or military purposes, the true purpose of these ancient objects remains a mystery.
These artifacts carry the mysteries of the past into the present, and archaeologists continue their efforts to find solutions. However, the secrets of some artifacts may never be fully revealed.
