Ukrainian pyramids
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In 2006, an ancient site of habitation was discovered by archaeologists dating to approximately 3000 BC, representing the early Yamna culture near the city of Luhansk, Ukraine. Initial reports indicated that archaeologists claimed to have discovered a pyramidal structure, rather than a complex simply built on a hill. The findings were officially announced on 7 September 2006, though much of the information was released 11 August. The most recent statements by Viktor Klochko, head of the excavation, make it clear that the "pyramid" description is unjustified, but that the site represents an important cultural find.
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[edit] Discovery
It is believed that the much of the site was constructed about five millennia ago, at the time of the early Bronze Age. The "pyramid" is in fact a complex of temples and sacrificial altars topping a hill with sides sculpted into steps.
Klochko said the discovery was of international significance as the first monument of its kind found in Eastern Europe:
- “It changes our whole conception of the social structure and the level of development of the cattle breeders and farmers who were the direct ancestors of most European peoples.”
Archaeologists have confirmed that evidence of graves has been found at the Luhansk site, which they believe to have been the result of human sacrifice, rather than due to its use as a burial ground. "People lived in the surrounding valleys and climbed up it to carry out their ceremonies," Klochko is quoted in The Guardian of 7 September 2006, “They had a pagan cult that bowed down to the sun, as did the ancestors of the Slavs.”
According to The Guardian, remains of sacrifice victims, ashes and ceramics have been found at the site, but no jewellery or treasure. The complex has a base area of three-quarters of a square mile, is estimated to be 60 metres (192ft) high, and was probably used for 2,000 years.
[edit] Misidentification as Pyramid
The discovery has received mixed reactions from the academic community, and the claim that authentic pyramids have been found was quickly disputed. Members of the National Academy of Science of Ukraine have been sent to the site for independent verification.
The archaeologist in charge of the site is Viktor Klochko, who clarified the misunderstanding in the press that a pyramid had been discovered: "I'm not sure where the pyramid idea came from - the media got it wrong," says Klochko. "We didn't find anything like an Egyptian pyramid. Though the site is on a hill. But it's interesting enough in its own right."[1]
[edit] References
- Archaeology Magazine: Fact Check: Ukrainian "Pyramid".
- PRAVDA: Ancient pyramids found in Ukraine
- BBC News: 'Pyramids' discovered in Ukraine
- Guardian Unlimited: Bronze Age pyramid found in Ukraine
