Scientists have uncovered a remarkable underwater city named Soline that is around 7,000 years old. This astonishing find was made in the Adriatic Sea off the coast of modern-day Croatia. Let’s discover how it provides us with a unique glimpse into early human civilization!
The Location of the Discovery
The ancient city of Soline was discovered off the coast of Croatia and lies about 13 feet underwater. This location was once dry land, showing how sea levels have changed over time! Now, scientists are studying geography to see what it could teach them about the people who once inhabited this land.
The City’s Age and Significance
Researchers estimate that Soline is about 7,000 years old, which makes it one of the oldest submerged cities ever found. It is connected by a Stone Age road to what would’ve been the mainland long ago. Today, the discovery is significant because it can reveal much about early human life and development in this area!
Tools and Techniques Used
To explore the city, scientists used advanced underwater technology. For example, they employed tools like sonar mapping and underwater drones in order to create 3D maps of the rivers and estuaries that used to be present in this area. These technologies helped them to safely navigate and study the submerged structures as well as create an accurate representation of what it all looked like above ground.
Evidence of Early Human Life
Within the city of Soline, researchers found evidence of early human life such as blades, axes, and other tools. Continuing forward, they hope to uncover even more tools, pottery, and other artifacts using the information that they have collected so far. Then these items could provide insight into the daily lives of the people who once lived there.
Discovering Unique Landmarks
As you may have seen a couple of images ago, scientists created a 3D map of the landmarks they found. One of these was a river, which people would have once settled along as a source of water and food. So, discovering the shape of this river could lead scientists to more amazing discoveries.
Marine Archaeology Challenges
Exploring underwater sites like this one can present many challenges. For example, poor visibility and water damage make it difficult to study and understand these areas. Despite these obstacles, the research team made significant progress using new technology and hard work.
Theories About the City’s Demise
Scientists have a prevailing theory about why the city ended up underwater. Most believe it was due to rising sea levels from glaciers melting during the last Ice Age, which began all the way back in 12,000 BC! However, the settlement of Soline itself is dated to approximately 4,900 BC.
Preservation of Artifacts
Many of the artifacts found were well-preserved due to being underwater. This is because the lack of oxygen in these environments helps protect organic materials. Now, this preservation provides valuable information about ancient technologies and lifestyles that may not have otherwise survived.
Comparisons to Other Underwater Cities
This discovery is often compared to other submerged cities, like Atlantis. However, unlike the mythical Atlantis, this city is real and provides concrete evidence of ancient human activity! Such finds are rare and extremely valuable for historical research, so this is an amazing opportunity.
Impact on Our Understanding of History
The discovery of this underwater city has a significant impact on our understanding of history. It challenges previous notions about early human settlements and their locations as well as provides information on society in between prehistoric times and the ancient Greeks. Additionally, it sheds light on how ancient communities adapted to changing environments with the rising water levels.
Future Research and Exploration
Scientists are eager to continue exploring this site. In fact, they plan to conduct further dives and excavations over the next 5 years to learn all that they can. So hopefully future research will uncover even more about the city’s history and its people!
Importance of Underwater Discoveries
Underwater discoveries like this one are crucial for archaeology. They open up new possibilities for understanding our past and using that information for the future. These finds also remind us that much of our history remains hidden beneath the sea!
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