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Experts have found evidence of a Roman industrial hub on the banks of the River Wear in North East England.

The Offerton site, near Sunderland, has so far yielded more than 800 whetstones (stone bars used to sharpen bladed tools and weapons), and eleven stone anchors.

Analysis of the sediment layer containing the whetstones, undertaken by Durham University’s Department of Archaeology, has confirmed the site dates to the Roman period.

The site was discovered and excavated by volunteer enthusiasts from the Vedra Hylton Community Association and supported by Durham University’s Department of Archaeology.

The excavations will be featured on the new series of Digging for Britain on BBC Two and available on iPlayer from today [Wednesday 7 January 2026].

The find represents the largest known whetstone discovery of the period in North West Europe, and places North East England firmly within Roman Britain’s sophisticated manufacturing and trade network.

Whetstones, used to sharpen blades, were vital tools in every aspect of Roman life – from the domestic and commercial to the agricultural, industrial, medical, and military.

The abundance and condition of the whetstones discovered, along with a corresponding sandstone outcrop on the opposite side of the river, indicate Offerton was likely a major production hub in Roman Britain.

The site has been dated using Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL) testing on the sediment layers surrounding the whetstones.

OSL measures when minerals such as quartz were last exposed to sunlight. Over time, these minerals build up a tiny store of energy while buried. When stimulated with light or heat in the laboratory, the minerals release this energy as a faint glow, which tells experts how long they have been underground.

The results showed that sediment samples taken directly below the whetstone discovery were dated to 42-184AD, whilst the sediment sample taken from the whetstone layer was dated to 104-238AD – during the Roman period in Britain.

The results suggest Offerton is the first Roman site found in Britain where stone was deliberately quarried for whetstone production.

Alongside the 800 whetstones excavated, the team believe that there are hundreds, possibly thousands, more that remain buried within the riverbank.

The project was led by Gary Bankhead, President of the Vedra Hylton Community Association and Honorary Fellow of Durham University’s Department of Archaeology.

It has been supported by staff and students from Durham University’s Department of Archaeology including Bronze Age and Roman experts Dr Benjamin Roberts and Dr Eleri Cousins. The OSL dating was led by Dr Eric Andrieux.

The project team undertook excavation works along the riverbanks and foreshore at Offerton, with support from The Crown Estate.

The Crown Estate manages around half the foreshore around England, Wales and Northern Ireland, including some estuary and tidal riverbeds, and the seabed out to 12 nautical miles.

Over the course of six months in 2025, the team found the vast haul of whetstones in various stages of production, from roughly worked pieces still bearing tool marks to finely finished examples with smooth surfaces and chamfered edges.

The team also found 65 ‘doubles’ – whetstones still conjoined prior to splitting –, along with a rare ‘treble’.

The recorded whetstones are all damaged and were likely discarded during production as they no longer met the required length. The Roman army were particular about the uniformity of their equipment so any whetstones that were not exactly 12 inches would have been discarded.

Five stone anchors were also unearthed by the fieldwork team during 2025.

Six stone anchors had been recovered in the adjacent stretch of river in 2022. This brings the total to eleven — the largest number of stone anchors ever found at any northern European river site to date.

The team believe the anchors could have been used by river going vessels that were transporting slabs of sandstone across the river for whetstone preparation.

As well as whetstones and stone anchors, the team also discovered:

• A post-medieval wooden jetty structure, and earlier stone-built jetty
• Tools including chisels and stone splitters
• A leather shoe from Tudor times
• Iron and stone cannonballs, and lead shot dating to the English Civil Wars

While a clash at Offerton was already known, discoveries of ammunition extend the mapped area of conflict and suggest the riverside site held greater strategic importance than previously understood.

The wooden jetty and associated small finds may relate to the women known as “hailers,” who once hauled keel boats upriver. Skippers would literally “hail” for their help as vessels headed upstream to collect coal, often struggling against the tide and wind. With ropes looped over their heads and sticks for leverage, the hailers towed the boats toward the staithes—sometimes several at once. Their labour, rarely recorded in written history, was vital to Sunderland’s early river economy, and the Offerton jetty may mark one of the places where this demanding work took place.

Collectively, these discoveries could extend the known timeline of human activity along this part of the River Wear by over 1,800 years.

Further geophysical survey work would be needed to determine the full scale and extent of the site.

Gary Bankhead, President of the Vedra Hylton Community Association and Honorary Fellow, Department of Archaeology, Durham University said: “This isn’t just a Roman site—it’s Sunderland’s story, revealed through the dedication of local volunteers and researchers working side by side. The River Wear has once again offered us a remarkable discovery, and we are only beginning to understand its full legacy.

“At Offerton, the recovery of Roman coins, along with firm OSL dating, now confirms the site’s Roman origins. Here, we see compelling evidence of one of Sunderland’s earliest known industries. The manufacture of whetstones at this location closely matches examples from securely dated Roman contexts, demonstrating that whetstones were being produced—and very likely distributed—from this riverside workshop.

“It is another extraordinary chapter from a river that continues to rewrite history.”

Dr Eleri Cousins, Assistant Professor in Roman Archaeology, Durham University said: “With the confirmation that these whetstones are Roman, this site has the potential to make a significant addition to our understanding of manufacturing and industry in Roman Britain, particularly in the militarised north of the province.

“This is an exciting discovery that tells a fascinating story about how ordinary objects like whetstones could be produced on an industrial scale.”

Cllr Michael Mordey, Leader of Sunderland City Council, said: “Ships, coal, pottery, glass and cars have all been made on the banks of the River Wear over the years by generations of Sunderland families and, thanks to the results of research and analysis carried out by experts at Durham University, this work has revealed yet another generation of makers who have shaped the industrious city we are today.

 “This shines a whole new light on the role Sunderland may have played in the Roman Empire, presenting an exciting opportunity to learn new things from our rich historical past.  This has been a remarkable effort by all involved and I’m sure I speak for the entire city when I say we can’t wait to find out more about what this research reveals.”

Emily Swift, Senior Asset Manager for Coastal at The Crown Estate, said: “We were so excited to hear of a Roman archaeological discovery in the River Wear and it’s been fantastic to work collaboratively with partners to bring this to life.  Mapping out the historical significance of the River Wear also helps our team to work closely with Sunderland City Council to sensitively maintain and preserve the river and riverbanks for future generations to enjoy.”

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VHCA Members in trench 3 revealing multiple whetstones. CREDIT DURHAM UNIVERSITY AND KUMAR UJJWAL SINGH

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11 bar-shaped whetstones found/recorded on the north foreshore. Credit Durham University and Gary Bankhead

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A single bar-shaped whetstone showing tool mark. Credit Durham University and Gary Bankhead

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About Durham University

Durham University is a globally outstanding centre of teaching and research based in historic Durham City in the UK. 

We are a collegiate university committed to inspiring our people to do outstanding things at Durham and in the world. 

We conduct research that improves lives globally and we are ranked as a world top 100 university with an international reputation in research and education (QS World University Rankings 2026). 

We are a member of the Russell Group of leading research-intensive UK universities, The Times and Sunday Times UK University of the Year 2026, and ranked in the top five in all three major UK university rankings (The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide, the Guardian University Guide, and the Complete University Guide). 

For more information about Durham University visit: www.durham.ac.uk/about/ 

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Article Source: Durham University news release.

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American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)—A re-examination of the femur and ulna of Sahelanthropus tchadensis, commonly regarded as the earliest known hominin, confirms that this species walked on two legs. The new study identifies 3 bone features associated with bipedal hominin hip and knee function that corroborate earlier findings. Classifying the features of suspected early bipeds – such as S. tchadensis, which lived roughly 7 million years ago – can help scientists understand the morphological phases of hominin evolution. Previously, analysis of a S. tchadensis cranium suggested this species carried its head like other bipeds do. Subsequent studies based on its partial ulnae and femur shafts also hinted at bipedalism. However, debate remained, because the species’ leg bones share some similarity with chimpanzee morphology. Here, Scott Williams and colleagues have re-examined those ulna and femur bones, examining their proportionality, size, and 3D morphology as compared with hominins and apes. Sizes were most similar to Pan genus apes, such as chimpanzees. However, proportions were more hominin-like. The bones further contained two features that are essential for bipedal knee and hip motion: strong femoral antetorsion and proxies for a gluteal complex. The femur had a tubercle, suggesting the existence of a ligament for bipedal gait stabilization. “Together, these features […] may represent some of the earliest adaptations to bipedalism in the hominin lineage,” Williams et al. write, noting that the species probably could still navigate arboreal landscapes with ease.

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S. tchadensis fossils (TM 266) compared to a chimpanzee and a human. Wiliams et al., Sci. Adv. 12, eadv0130

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The femoral tubercle, the insertion site of the superior band of the iliofemoral ligament. Wiliams et al., Sci. Adv. 12, eadv0130

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Article Source: AAAS news release.

*Earliest evidence of hominin bipedalism in Sahelanthropus tchadensis, Science Advances, 2-Jan-2026. www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adv0130

Cover Image, Top Left: skull / casting / Sahelanthropus tchadensi, Rama, CC BY-SA 3.0 FR, Wikimedia Commons

American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)—Pigs across the Pacific can trace their ancestry to Southeast Asian domestic pigs that accompanied early Austronesian-speaking groups as they island-hopped across the region, according to a new genomic study*. For thousands of years, humans have moved animals far beyond their natural ranges – sometimes accidentally and sometimes deliberately, but often with profound ecological consequences, especially on islands. Pigs are a striking example; although their home ranges lie mostly west of the Wallace Line, multiple species are now widespread across the islands of Southeast Asia and throughout Oceania. Archaeological and genetic evidence suggest that pigs were brought eastward more than 4,000 years ago, predating major Austronesian migrations, with later human expansions bringing them farther across the Pacific. However, studies show that endemic pigs in these regions carry a distinctive “Pacific Clade” genetic signature, which is shared by wild and free-living pigs elsewhere across mainland Southeast Asia. This pattern raises questions about the precise nature of the origin and dispersal of pig populations across the Pacific, and humans’ role in it.

To trace the origins of pigs across Wallacea, Melanesia, Micronesia, and Polynesia, David Stanton and colleagues sequenced 117 modern, historical, and ancient pig genomes spanning the last 2,900 years, and analyzed tooth shape data from 401 modern and 313 archaeological specimens. Stanton et al. found that pigs from the Philippines to Hawaii largely descended from domestic pigs brought by Austronesian-speaking groups from Southeast China and Taiwan about 4,000 years ago. Moreover, pigs in Oceania show no genetic mixing with the wild pig species native to islands along the migration route, indicating that the earliest introduced animals remained genetically isolated from local populations. Only later did isolated feral populations interbreed with endemic wild species. According to the authors, this pattern mirrors early, successive human migrations across the region, which likewise involved limited admixture with local groups, suggesting that these pigs possessed domestic traits well suited for transport and husbandry. Repeated island-to-island movement then shaped their evolution through genetic bottlenecks, selective pressures, and later gene flow, helping explain their success in spreading across Island Southeast Asia and the western Pacific.

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Above and below: prehistoric cave paintings of Sulawesi warty pigs from Leang Tedongnge Cave, Sulawesi, Indonesia. Dated to at least 45,000 years old, making these some of the oldest known cave art in the world and demonstrate the long-standing relationship between pigs and people in the region. Adam Brumm (Griffith University) and Adhi Agus Oktaviana (BRIN, Indonesia)

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Article Source: AAAS news release.

American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)—A new study* presents what may be the earliest known intentional cremation in Africa to date. The evidence shows that, roughly 9,500 years ago, hunter-gatherers came together to build a pyre and arrange the body of a small female for cremation. Uncovered in present-day Malawi, the event signifies that these people undertook elaborate, communal mortuary practices. Traces of deliberate cremation are rare in hunter-gatherer groups prior to the mid-Holocene. Until now, the oldest cremations – confirmed by the presence of a pyre alongside additional indicators – have dated back to roughly 3,300 years ago during the Pastoral Neolithic. Now, Jessica Cerezo-Román and colleagues have uncovered a prehistoric pyre containing a small adult female’s remains that bear osteological marks of perimortem defleshing and post-burn manipulation. The discovery portrays a meticulously planned event performed by African hunter-gatherers roughly 9,500 years ago at the Hora 1 site. Spatial reconstructions of the site further revealed that the society revisited the location afterwards and built more large fires. This suggests the group not only invested in communal burial rituals, but also maintained a longer tradition based on their shared memory of the event. “These practices emphasize complex mortuary and ritual activities with origins predating the advent of food production, and challenge traditional assumptions about community-scale cooperation and memory-making in tropical hunter-gatherer societies,” Cerezo-Román et al. write.

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Map and image of Hora. Jessica Thompson

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Hora 1 site under excavation. Jessica Thompson

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Microscopic ash layers. Flora Schilt

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Pyre points cropped. Justin Pargeter

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Article Source: AAAS news release.

*Earliest Evidence for Intentional Cremation of Human Remains in Africa, Science Advances, 1-Jan-2026.  www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adz9554

Cover Image, Top Left: Hora Mountain from afar.  Jacob Davis

Canada’s transportation network—its highways, rail corridors, urban streets, and rural access roads—may look modern on the surface, but beneath it lies thousands of years of human history. As archaeological research advances and Indigenous heritage protection gains legal recognition, archaeological discoveries are increasingly influencing how transportation planning is approached across the country. From rerouting highways to redesigning urban infrastructure, archaeology now plays a vital role in shaping Canada’s mobility future.

Understanding the Link Between Archaeology and Transportation

Long before cars, trucks, or railways existed, Indigenous communities developed sophisticated transportation systems. These included seasonal trails, river routes, portage paths, and trade corridors that connected regions for commerce, migration, and cultural exchange. Archaeological findings help modern planners understand where these historic routes existed and why they were chosen—often due to terrain stability, water access, or environmental efficiency.

Many modern roads unintentionally follow these ancient pathways. Archaeologists use tools such as ground-penetrating radar, historical mapping, and artifact analysis to identify these routes, providing valuable insight before new transportation projects begin.

Legal Requirements and Cultural Preservation

In Canada, transportation projects must comply with federal, provincial, and Indigenous heritage protection laws. Environmental and cultural impact assessments now routinely include archaeological evaluations. When artifacts, burial grounds, or historic travel routes are discovered, planners are legally obligated to reassess designs.

This has led to:

• Highway realignments to avoid sacred sites
• Delays in construction timelines to allow excavation and documentation
• Redesigns of bridges and tunnels to minimize land disturbance

These measures ensure that development does not erase irreplaceable cultural history while still supporting modern transportation needs.

Case Studies Across Canada

British Columbia and Indigenous Trade Routes

In British Columbia, archaeological evidence of ancient coastal and inland trade routes has influenced highway expansion projects. Some corridors were adjusted after discoveries revealed long-used Indigenous travel networks aligned with rivers and mountain passes.

Ontario’s Urban Transit Developments

Toronto’s transit expansions have uncovered artifacts dating back thousands of years. Rather than halting progress, planners collaborated with archaeologists to preserve findings while continuing development, integrating heritage interpretation into station design.

Alberta’s Transportation Planning Challenges

Alberta, particularly around Calgary, presents unique challenges due to rapid urban growth combined with historically significant land use. Archaeological discoveries related to Indigenous hunting routes and settlement patterns have required transportation planners to adopt more flexible, consultative approaches when designing new roadways and access routes.

Technology Improving Archaeological Integration

Modern technology allows archaeologists and planners to work together more efficiently than ever before. Geographic Information Systems (GIS), LiDAR scanning, and predictive modeling help identify high-risk archaeological zones before construction begins.

This proactive approach:

• Reduces costly project delays
• Improves community trust
• Enables smarter land-use decisions

Transportation planning is no longer just about speed and efficiency—it’s about respecting the layered history beneath Canada’s landscapes.

Impact on Travel and Vehicle Use

As transportation routes shift or become more environmentally sensitive, travelers increasingly adapt how they explore archaeological and heritage sites. Many historic locations are in rural or semi-remote areas, requiring reliable transportation that can handle diverse terrain and long distances.

For residents and visitors in Alberta, especially those exploring heritage corridors near Calgary, a used SUV often provides the flexibility and durability needed to navigate both modern highways and heritage access roads while aligning with sustainable vehicle ownership practices.

Sustainability and Long-Term Planning

Archaeological awareness also contributes to sustainable transportation planning. By learning how ancient communities adapted to climate, terrain, and natural resources, modern planners gain insight into long-term resilience strategies.

Ancient routes often avoided flood zones, unstable soil, and environmentally sensitive areas—lessons that are increasingly relevant as Canada faces climate change challenges. Incorporating archaeological knowledge helps create transportation systems that are both durable and environmentally responsible.

Collaboration with Indigenous Communities

One of the most significant shifts in Canadian transportation planning is the growing collaboration with Indigenous communities. Archaeological findings are no longer interpreted in isolation; they are contextualized with oral histories and cultural knowledge.

This collaborative approach ensures:

• Respect for Indigenous rights
• More accurate historical interpretation
• Infrastructure projects that benefit local communities

Transportation planning becomes a shared process rather than a purely technical one.

Looking Ahead: A Balanced Future

Archaeological discoveries are reshaping how Canada thinks about progress. Rather than viewing history as an obstacle, planners increasingly see it as a guide. By integrating archaeological insights into transportation design, Canada is building systems that honor the past while supporting future mobility.

As urban expansion continues and infrastructure demands grow, archaeology will remain a crucial component of responsible transportation planning—ensuring that the roads Canadians travel every day respect the stories buried beneath them.

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Cover Image, Top Left: jmj2362, Pixabay

University of Copenhagen—Historians and archaeologists are constantly looking for new ways to bring the past to life. And in museums, audiovisual and digital solutions have long been a part of the presentation of cultural heritage.

However, until now, developing immersive digital content about the past has been very expensive and has required specialized labor. At the same time, it has been difficult to update the content if needed.

For this reason, only large commercial game developers have been successful in making (pre-)history-based video games. Popular examples are Assassin’s Creed and Civilization, which are great, but don’t always place a high value on historical accuracy.

But in a new research paper (link), archaeologists from the University of Copenhagen show that by using AI, the free tool Unreal Engine and tutorials on YouTube, they have been able to create an educational dynamic 3D computer game – in a short time and for very little money.

“We believe that these free tools that are now available to everyone have the potential to revolutionize digital cultural heritage communication. And with the research article about our game, we give other professionals the recipe for how to get started with digital storytelling without spending huge resources on it,” says archaeologist Mikkel Nørtoft from the University of Copenhagen.

Small talk with a Stone Age woman

The 3D game developed by the researchers is based on the Deep Histories of Migration research project about the Neolithic period in Northern Europe. The game is centered around the archaeologists’ own video recordings of two well-preserved long dolmens from Lindeskov Hestehave on Funen.

“The aim of the game is to learn more about the Neolithic Age and the burial monuments that were built back then in a dramatized universe. You do this by exploring the site, and talking to two AI-driven characters, an archaeologist and a Stone Age woman, whom we have prompted with background stories,” explains Mikkel Nørtoft and continues:

 “In other words, we haven’t had to write detailed manuscripts because the characters speak using generative AI and can therefore express themselves – optionally in several different languages – based on our prompts and our own compiled archaeological knowledge banks.”

This also means that researchers can continuously change the back stories as they gain new knowledge. In this way, they can ensure that the communication always stands on solid academic ground, while at the same time appearing immediate and natural to the players.

“Our game is primarily an example of what is technically possible for beginners, so we recommend that museums and other interested parties build their own scenarios with their expert knowledge. With a little help, most people will be able to learn how to build a simple scenario with characters within a few days and start experimenting with this type of dissemination.”

For Mikkel Nørtoft and his colleagues, their attempt to create a computer game shows that archaeologists and historians no longer have to depend on expensive commercial developers. They can now take control of the communication of their subject and create their own research-based digital version of prehistory.

See a demonstration of the archaeologists’ game on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6h4KqFgoPv4.

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Dolmen Debbie. Screenshot from the game.  University of Copenhagen

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Article Source: University of Copenhagen news release.

*Gamifying the past: embodied LLMs in DIY archaeological video games, Advances in Archaeological Practice, 10-Dec-2025. 10.1017/aap.2025.10106 

University of Barcelona—When studying how fossil hominids moved, researchers usually analyse the morphology of bones — which is crucial for understanding the evolution of bipedalism — focusing mainly on muscle insertion sites. However, the potential information of studying other types of soft tissue, such as joint ligaments, is often overlooked. Now, an article* published in the journal Scientific Reports emphasizes the importance of studying the anatomy of the insertion points of the wrist ligaments to reconstruct the locomotor behaviour and manipulative dexterity of fossil hominids throughout human evolution.

The study is led by professors Josep M. Potau and Aroa Casado, from the Human Anatomy and Embryology Unit of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences and the Institute of Archaeology (IAUB) at the University of Barcelona.

With an innovative perspective, the study applies the technique of three-dimensional geometric morphometric analysis (3D GM) to examine the insertion sites of the ligaments at the end of the radius that contacts the wrist (distal epiphysis).

The results confirm the existence of diverse locomotor behaviours in hominids and show significant differences in the size, orientation, and shape of wrist ligament insertions in fossil hominids — Australopithecus afarensis, Australopithecus anamensis, Australopithecus sediba, Paranthropus robustus, Homo neanderthalensis and archaic Homo sapiens — and modern hominids: Homo sapiens, Pan troglodytes (chimpanzees), Gorilla gorilla (gorillas) and Pongo pygmaeus (orangutans).

The study expands the set of methodological tools for understanding the evolution of hominids in palaeoanthropology and proposes an innovative methodology that complements more traditional research based on bone morphology.

A new approach to reconstructing locomotion in hominids

Ligaments are a type of soft tissue that is rarely used in studies of hominid locomotion. They act as stabilizers for the joints and also enable the brain to determine the functional status of each joint. The different forms of locomotion in hominids involve anatomical differences in the ligaments of the wrist and, therefore, modifications in the areas where the ligaments insert into the distal epiphysis of the radius.

“Humans, who are bipedal and use their hands primarily to manipulate objects, have anatomical characteristics in these insertion areas that are markedly different from those observed in other non-human hominoid primates (chimpanzees, gorillas and orangutans)”, says Professor Josep Maria Potau, from the Department of Surgery and Surgical Specializations at the UB, “which use their hands differently, mainly due to their arboreal and terrestrial locomotion.”

The team developed research lines specializing in the anatomical study of the ligaments of the upper limbs in primates, aiming to create anatomical models that can be compared with modern humans and estimating the types of locomotion of fossil primates by studying the areas of ligament insertion.

“The study of ligament insertion sites in 3D models allows, in most cases, the corroboration or questioning of locomotor inferences based strictly on the study of muscle insertions,” notes Josep Maria Potau. “Furthermore, it provides unique information that cannot be obtained from the study of muscle insertions.”

The distal epiphysis of the radius, which is well represented in many species of fossil primates, “has no identifiable muscle insertion area that allows for locomotor inferences to be made, but it does have two well-defined areas where a large part of the wrist ligaments are inserted, which has allowed this type of inference to be made in the study,” says Professor Aroa Casado.

“If the results obtained with the ligaments coincide with those obtained in the muscular study — she continues — this reinforces the identification of a specific type of locomotion in a specific fossil species. However, if the results are contradictory, it may suggest other alternative forms of locomotion.”

Unravelling the mysteries of bipedalism

As the study reveals, Australopithecus afarensis, Australopithecus anamensis, and Australopithecus sediba show anatomy very similar to that observed in chimpanzees and orangutans. This would support the hypothesis that these ancestors combined habitual bipedal locomotion with highly effective arboreal locomotion, a conclusion indicated in previous studies on muscle insertion sites.

Paranthropus robustus — a fossil primate that evolved in parallel with human phylogeny — is a more contradictory case. While some authors consider it a bipedal species with effective arboreal locomotion — similar to that of Australopithecus —, others postulate that it may have had other forms of terrestrial locomotion. “In our study, the Paranthropus robustus specimen has an anatomy more similar to that of gorillas, so the conclusions would reinforce the idea that, in addition to bipedal and arboreal locomotion, it could also have developed other forms of terrestrial locomotion,” the authors point out, since gorillas are the hominoid primates that most frequently use terrestrial-type locomotion.

Regarding the Homo neanderthalensis and archaic Homo sapiens — closer to the human species —, the anatomy is very similar to that of modern humans, but researchers detected “some characteristic features that would indicate a relatively different use of the hands compared to that of modern human populations.” These ancestors have a typical anatomy in the area where a particular ligament inserts, the short radiolunate ligament, which suggests greater robustness in the wrist area, probably related to a higher demand for manual load bearing associated with hunting or tool making.

The application of the 3D GM technique could be extended to other evolutionary studies of both fossil and extant species to infer locomotor patterns and manual precision. “Our results demonstrate the value of this technique in reconstructing locomotor behavior and make it a valuable tool for future studies in the fields of comparative anatomy, biological anthropology, palaeoanthropology and human evolution,” the team concludes.

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Beyond the research on bone morphology, a UB-led study focuses on soft tissues and expands the methodological tools for understanding how fossil hominids moved throughout the evolution of the human species. Scientific Reports

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Article Source: University of Barcelona news release.

Archaeologists often work in some of the most challenging environments on earth—isolated dig sites, coastal zones, riverbanks, lake shores, and even partially submerged ancient settlements. Accessing these areas safely and efficiently has always been difficult, especially when transporting tools, equipment, and teams across unstable or water-logged terrain.

This is where modern field logistics have evolved. One of the most innovative tools increasingly used in archaeological expeditions today is the inflatable yacht dock, a compact yet durable floating platform that makes remote site work significantly easier.

The Challenge of Accessing Remote Archaeological Sites

Many archaeological discoveries lie far from dry, stable ground. Examples include:

• Submerged ruins near ancient port cities
• River-based settlements found in South Asia and Europe
• Wetland dig sites with soft, sinking soil
• Cliffside or island sites that require boat access
• Coastal sites affected by tides, erosion, or rising sea levels

Traditional wooden or metal docks are hard to transport and install in these environments. Archaeologists need something flexible, lightweight, and practical.

Why Inflatable Docks Are Ideal for Archaeological Fieldwork

1. Easy Transport to Remote Locations

Inflatable docks weigh far less than conventional structures. Archaeology teams can carry them:

• By boat
• On foot
• By 4×4 vehicles
• In small aircraft or helicopters

This flexibility is crucial in excavation zones where road access is limited.

2. Stable Floating Platforms for Water-Based Excavations

Sites near lakes, rivers, or coastal shallows often require:

• Underwater surveying
• Artifact retrieval
• Sediment sampling
• Drone-based photogrammetry from water

Inflatable docks create a stable floating basecamp, allowing archaeologists to organize tools, change equipment, and document findings without returning to shore repeatedly.

3. Faster Setup and Takedown

Time is often limited during an excavation season. Inflatable platforms can be:

• Inflated in minutes
• Anchored quickly
• Expanded by connecting multiple units

This allows archaeologists to focus on fieldwork instead of construction.

4. Protecting Sensitive Environments

Many archaeological landscapes are fragile. Heavy docks, drilling, or construction can damage:

• Ancient shoreline formations
• Flora and fauna in wetland ecosystems
• Structural remains underwater

Inflatable docks rest lightly on the water, minimizing environmental impact—a major advantage for conservation-focused research.

5. Cost-Effective Solution for Long-Term Projects

Buying or transporting traditional docks can be expensive. Inflatable versions are:

• Cheaper
• Reusable
• Easier to repair on-site
• Suitable for multi-season projects

This helps archaeology teams stretch their budgets without sacrificing safety or efficiency.

Real-World Uses in Archaeology

Inflatable docks are currently being used in several field scenarios:

• Mediterranean coastal excavations exploring ancient harbors
• Lake archaeology projects studying submerged villages
• Amazonian riverbank surveys where soil collapses easily
• Island-based digs where transporting heavy materials is impossible
• Underwater artifact cataloging stations for divers

Researchers using photogrammetry and geophysical tools also appreciate the stable water platform these docks provide.

Enhanced Safety for Field Teams

Water-based archaeology involves risks—slippery surfaces, unstable boats, and unpredictable currents. Inflatable docks provide:

• Stable footing
• Handholds
• Space for storing safety gear
• A dependable platform for first-aid and field documentation

This reduces accidents and increases productivity during long excavation days.

The Future: More Portable Tools for Archaeologists

As archaeological exploration expands into harder-to-reach areas, inflatable and modular field equipment will continue to rise in popularity. Inflatable docks represent just one part of a larger shift toward highly portable, environmentally respectful excavation tools.

They empower archaeologists to access previously unreachable sites, making new discoveries possible while protecting delicate heritage landscapes.

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Cover Image, Top Left: Pixabay

Midwestern University—A team of international scientists, led by Dr. Karen Baab, a paleoanthropologist at the College of Graduate Studies, Glendale Campus of Midwestern University in Arizona, produced a virtual reconstruction of the face of early Homo erectus*. The 1.5 to 1.6 million-year-old fossil, called DAN5, was found at the site of Gona, in the Afar region of Ethiopia. This surprisingly archaic face yields new insights into the first species to spread across Africa and Eurasia. The team’s findings are being published in Nature Communications.

According to Dr. Baab, “We already knew that the DAN5 fossil had a small brain, but this new reconstruction shows that the face is also more primitive than classic African Homo erectus of the same antiquity. One explanation is that the Gona population retained the anatomy of the population that originally migrated out of Africa approximately 300,000 years earlier.”

Gona, Ethiopia

The Gona Paleoanthropological Research Project in the Afar of Ethiopia is co-directed by Dr. Sileshi Semaw (Centro Nacional de Investigación sobre la Evolución Humana, Spain) and Dr. Michael Rogers (Southern Connecticut State University). Gona has yielded hominin fossils that are older than 6.3 million years ago, and stone tools spanning the last 2.6 million years of human evolution. The newly presented hominin reconstruction includes a fossil brain case (previously described in 2020) and smaller fragments of the face belonging to a single individual called DAN5 dated to between 1.6 and 1.5 million years ago. The face fragments (and teeth) have now been reassembled using virtual techniques to generate the most complete skull of a fossil human from the Horn of Africa in this time period. The DAN5 fossil is assigned to Homo erectus, a long-lived species found throughout Africa, Asia, and Europe after approximately 1.8 million years ago.

How did the scientists reconstruct the DAN5 fossil?

The researchers used high-resolution micro-CT scans of the four major fragments of the face, which were recovered during the 2000 fieldwork at Gona. 3D models of the fragments were generated from the CT scans. The face fragments were then re-pieced together on a computer screen, and the teeth were fit into the upper jaw where possible. The final step was “attaching” the face to the braincase to produce a mostly complete cranium. This reconstruction took about a year and went through several iterations before arriving at the final version.

Dr. Baab, who was responsible for the reconstruction, described this as “a very complicated 3D puzzle, and one where you do not know the exact outcome in advance. Fortunately, we do know how faces fit together in general, so we were not starting from scratch.”

What did scientists conclude?

This new study shows that the Gona population 1.5 million years ago had a mix of typical Homo erectus characters concentrated in its braincase, but more ancestral features of the face and teeth normally only seen in earlier species. For example, the bridge of the nose is quite flat, and the molars are large. Scientists determined this by comparing the size and shape of the DAN5 face and teeth with other fossils of the same geological age, as well as older and younger ones. A similar combination of traits was documented previously in Eurasia, but this is the first fossil to show this combination of traits inside Africa, challenging the idea that Homo erectus evolved outside of the continent. “I’ll never forget the shock I felt when Dr. Baab first showed me the reconstructed face and jaw,” says Dr. Yousuke Kaifu of the University of Tokyo, a co-author of the study.

“The oldest fossils belonging to Homo erectus are from Africa, and the new fossil reconstruction shows that transitional fossils also existed there, so it makes sense that this species emerged on the African continent,” says Dr. Baab. “But the DAN5 fossil postdates the initial exit from Africa, so other interpretations are possible.”

Dr. Rogers agrees. “This newly reconstructed cranium further emphasizes the anatomical diversity seen in early members of our genus, which is only likely to increase with future discoveries.”

“It is remarkable that the DAN5 Homo erectus was making both simple Oldowan stone tools and early Acheulian handaxes, among the earliest evidence for the two stone tool traditions to be found directly associated with a hominin fossil,” adds Dr. Semaw.

Future Research

The researchers are hoping to compare this fossil to the earliest human fossils from Europe, including fossils assigned to Homo erectus but also a distinct species, Homo antecessor, both dated to approximately one million years ago. “Comparing DAN5 to these fossils will not only deepen our understanding of facial variability within Homo erectus but also shed light on how the species adapted and evolved,” explains Dr. Sarah Freidline of the University of Central Florida, study co-author.

There is also potential to test alternative evolutionary scenarios, such as genetic admixture between two species, as seen in later human evolution among Neanderthals, modern humans and “Denisovans.”  For example, maybe DAN5 represents the result of admixture between classic African Homo erectus and the earlier Homo habilis species. According to Dr. Rogers, “We’re going to need several more fossils dated between one to two million years ago to sort this out.”

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Map showing potential migration routes of the human ancestor, Homo erectus, in Africa, Europe and Asia during the early Pleistocene. Key fossils of Homo erectus and the earlier Homo habilis species are shown, including the new face reconstruction of the DAN5 fossil from Gona, Ethiopia dated to 1.5 million years ago. Dr. Karen L. Baab. Scans provided by National Museum of Ethiopia, National Museums of Kenya and Georgian National Museum.

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Photo montage of five major elements of DAN5 fossil cranium.Photo montage of five major elements of DAN5 fossil cranium. Dr. Michael Rogers

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Fossil fragments of a face as well as teeth were reassembled to produce the most complete cranium of a human ancestor from this time in the Horn of Africa. Dr. Karen L. Baab. Scans provided by National Museum of Ethiopia. Photographs courtesy of M. Rogers and G. Suwa.

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Article Source: Midwestern University news release.

*“New reconstruction of DAN5 cranium (Gona, Ethiopia) supports complex emergence of Homo erectus,” Nature Communications, 16-Dec-2025. 10.1038/s41467-025-66381-9 

When students examine the ancient tools used by early humans, they’re not just looking at artifacts; they’re uncovering layers of our shared history. This exploration into human origins and cultural heritage can spark critical conversations about identity and community. By engaging with the past, you can help students connect these lessons to modern societal issues, yet many educators overlook this essential link. What if you could transform your classroom into a space where these connections thrive?

The Importance of Archaeology

Archaeology is often viewed as a window into our past, revealing the intricate tapestry of human history that shapes our present. By studying artifacts, structures, and cultural remains, you gain valuable insights into the behaviors, beliefs, and interactions of past societies. This discipline goes beyond mere excavation; it’s about interpreting data to understand how civilizations evolved, adapted, and influenced one another over time.

In the classroom, teaching archaeology fosters critical thinking and analytical skills. When you engage students with hands-on activities like mock digs or artifact analysis, you not only spark their curiosity but also illustrate the complexities of historical narratives. Students learn to appreciate the context of discoveries, understanding that each artifact tells a story about human resilience and innovation.

Moreover, archaeology emphasizes the significance of cultural heritage, highlighting the diverse experiences that contribute to our collective identity. By acknowledging the past, you help students recognize patterns in societal development and understand contemporary issues, such as cultural preservation and ethical considerations in research.

Ultimately, archaeology equips learners with the tools to analyze their world, encouraging them to become informed, empathetic global citizens.

Understanding Human Origins

Exploring human origins reveals the fascinating journey of our species from primitive ancestors to the complex societies we inhabit today. By examining archaeological evidence, you can trace the evolutionary path that led to modern Homo sapiens.

Fossils, tools, and artifacts provide concrete data about how early humans adapted to their environments, developed language, and formed social structures.

When you investigate this topic, you’ll discover how climate changes and geographical shifts influenced human migration and settlement patterns. For instance, the discovery of fire greatly impacted early human survival, enabling cooking and protection.

You’ll also learn about the significance of symbolic thought, as seen in cave art and burial practices, which reflect the cognitive and cultural advancements of our ancestors.

Cultural Heritage in Education

Integrating cultural heritage into education enriches students’ understanding of their own identities and the diverse world around them. By exploring the histories, traditions, and contributions of various cultures, you help students appreciate the richness of human experience. This approach fosters critical thinking, encouraging students to analyze how cultural narratives shape societal values and personal beliefs.

When you incorporate cultural heritage into your lessons, you’re not just teaching history; you’re creating a dialogue about how the past influences contemporary issues. Students learn to recognize the complexities of cultural interactions and the impact of globalization on local traditions. This understanding is essential in cultivating empathy and respect for diverse perspectives.

Moreover, integrating cultural heritage can empower students to connect with their own backgrounds. By valuing their unique histories, you encourage them to take pride in their identities while appreciating others. This dual recognition can serve as a foundation for collaborative learning, where students engage in discussions that challenge stereotypes and promote inclusivity.

Ultimately, embedding cultural heritage in education equips students with the tools needed to navigate an increasingly interconnected world, making them more informed, compassionate, and culturally aware citizens.

Engaging Students Through Artifacts

Artifacts serve as tangible connections to the past, sparking curiosity and engagement among students. When you introduce objects—like pottery shards, tools, or jewelry—students can almost feel history in their hands. These items tell stories of daily life, social norms, and technological advancements, making abstract concepts more relatable and concrete.

Integrating artifacts into your lessons can transform the classroom into a vibrant learning whether in traditional settings or an online school K-12, by making historical concepts more interactive and accessible to students. By examining these objects, students not only gain insights into different cultures but also start to appreciate the complexity of human experiences. They’ll ask questions about the materials used, the methods of production, and the societal context surrounding each artifact.

You can enhance this engagement by incorporating hands-on activities where students analyze replicas or even create their own artifacts. This kind of experiential learning encourages them to think critically about the significance of these items in understanding human history.

Additionally, discussing the provenance and ethical considerations surrounding artifacts can deepen their appreciation for cultural heritage. In this way, artifacts become more than mere objects; they evolve into powerful tools for fostering a connection to our shared past.

Fostering Critical Thinking Skills

Encouraging students to analyze artifacts critically can greatly enhance their critical thinking skills. When you guide them to question and evaluate the significance of each item, they learn to think beyond surface-level interpretations. This process not only deepens their understanding of history but also sharpens their analytical abilities.

Here are some key elements to focus on:

• Observation: Teach students to meticulously observe details, like material composition and wear patterns.
• Contextualization: Help them understand the cultural and historical context in which the artifact existed.
• Comparative Analysis: Encourage them to compare artifacts from different cultures or periods, fostering connections and contrasts.
• Hypothesis Formation: Motivate students to formulate hypotheses about the artifact’s purpose and significance, leading to deeper inquiry.

Connecting With Contemporary Issues

Connecting archaeology with contemporary issues invites students to see the relevance of historical studies in today’s world. By examining ancient civilizations, you can help students understand how past societies dealt with challenges similar to those we face now, such as climate change, conflict, and resource management.

For instance, exploring how the Maya adapted to environmental shifts can spark discussions about modern sustainability practices.

As you guide your students through these connections, encourage them to analyze how archaeological findings inform current social debates. This might include issues of cultural heritage, identity, and repatriation of artifacts.

By understanding the complexities surrounding these topics, students can appreciate the ongoing dialogue between past and present.

You can also highlight how archaeology uncovers forgotten voices, particularly marginalized communities. By engaging with these narratives, students develop empathy and a broader perspective on social justice issues today.

Ultimately, linking archaeology to contemporary issues not only enriches students’ understanding but also empowers them to think critically about their role in society.

This approach fosters a sense of responsibility and inspires action, making history not just a lesson of the past, but a guide for the future.

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In weaving archaeology into the classroom fabric, you’re not just imparting knowledge; you’re nurturing a profound appreciation for the intricate tapestry of human existence. By guiding students through the rich narratives of our ancestors, you elevate their understanding of cultural heritage and ignite critical thinking. This journey through time empowers them to engage thoughtfully with today’s world, transforming mere learners into enlightened custodians of the past, ready to navigate the complexities of the future with empathy and insight.

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Cover Image, Top Left: credit: JamesDeMers, Pixabay

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences—A study* uncovers remains of previously unknown individuals with tattoos in ancient Nubia, providing fresh insights into the prevalence, methods, and shifting motifs of tattooing over centuries. Tattooing is known to have occurred in ancient Nubia, particularly in the Nile River Valley. The advent of multispectral imaging methods has enabled the analysis of preserved skin samples for signs of tattooing. Anne Austin and colleagues examined 1,048 human remains from three sites in the Nile River Valley covering the period 350 BCE through 1400 CE. The analysis revealed 27 individuals with tattoos, nearly doubling the number of known tattooed individuals in the Nile River Valley. The tattoos were found on both male and female remains, with ages ranging from infants to elderly adults. Through microscopic analysis of the tattoos, the authors found a shift in tattooing practices in the medieval period, when Christianity was introduced to the region. The motifs of dotted diamonds across the body, as well as crisscrossed patterns on the hands in the pre-Christian period, gave way to tattoos on the face. The shapes of markings suggest tattoos formed with a knife rather than with a needle. According to the authors, the findings illustrate how multispectral techniques can provide context to ancient tattooing practices by clarifying techniques and motifs.

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Reconstruction of geometric tattoos on the right hand of an adult woman from Semna South. Mary Nguyen. ©2025 UMSL

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Reconstruction of tattooing on the forehead of a 3-year-old female (657-855 CE) from Kulubnarti. Mary Nguyen. ©2025 UMSL

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Article Source: PNAS news release.

Lund University—In the 4th century BC, an armada of boats attacked the island of Als off the coast of Denmark. Traveling in up to four boats, the unknown attackers were defeated, with the defenders sinking the weapons of their foes into the bog in one of the boats, most likely to give thanks for their victory.

“Where these sea raiders might have come from, and why they attacked the island of Als has long been a mystery,” says Mikael Fauvelle, archaeologist at Lund University.

The boat was discovered in the 1880s in the bog of Hjortspring Mose, excavated in the 1920s, and is now known as the Hjortspring boat. It is the only example of a prehistoric plank boat that has ever been found in Scandinavia. The finding is unique – since it was sunk in a bog as an offering, it was exceptionally well preserved. To this day, the Hjortspring boat has been on display at the National Museum of Denmark.

When the researchers unexpectedly located parts of the boat that had not been chemically preserved, they were able to study these using modern scientific methods.

“The boat was waterproofed with pine pitch, which was surprising. This suggests the boat was built somewhere with abundant pine forests,” says Mikael Fauvelle.

Several scholars had previously suggested that the boat and its crew came from the region around modern-day Hamburg in Germany. Instead, the researchers now believe they came from the Baltic Sea region.

“If the boat came from the pine forest-rich coastal regions of the Baltic Sea, it means that the warriors who attacked the island of Als chose to launch a maritime raid over hundreds of kilometers of open sea,” says Mikael Fauvelle.

So, exactly where did someone unknowingly leave their fingerprint in the tar, as a silent message to future generations? The best way to conclusively address the mystery of the boat’s origins would be through tree year ring counting which could match the planks on the boat to the area where the trees they came from were cut down. 

“We are also hoping to be able to extract ancient DNA from the caulking tar on the boat, which could give us more detailed information on the ancient people who used this boat,” concludes Mikael Fauvelle.

DETECTIVE WORK LED TO DISCOVERY

The latest findings* are the result of careful detective work by the researchers. 

The team wanted to find material from the boat that had not yet been subjected to conservation. This involved going through the archive at the National Museum and reading old correspondence, detailing when and where materials had been shipped between different storage areas and museums in Denmark. 

“When we located some of the boxes of materials, we were very excited to find that they contained samples from the original excavation that had not been studied in over 100 years,” says Mikael Fauvelle.

HOW THE RESEARCHERS EXAMINED THEIR FINDS

The team used a wide range of modern scientific methods to study the Hjortspring material. They were able to carbon date some of the lime bast cordage used on the boat, giving them the first absolute date from the original excavation material and confirming its pre-Roman Iron Age dating. 

They also used x-ray tomography to make high resolution scans of the caulking and cordage material found on the boat. This included making a digital 3D model of the fingerprint found in some of the caulking tar.

They used gas chromatography and mass spectrometry to study the caulking material and to see how it was produced. In addition, they worked with modern rope makers to create replicas of the ships cordage to study the rope-making process used in the boat’s construction. 

The research was carried out in collaboration with the research program Maritime Encounters at the University of Gothenburg.

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The Hjortspring boat as currently displayed at the National Museum of Denmark. Boel Bengtsson

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Photo of caulking fragment showing fingerprint on the left and high-resolution x-ray tomography scan of fingerprint region on the right. Erik Johansson, 3D model by Sahel Ganji.

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Cordage fragments from the Hjortspring boat. Mikael Fauvette

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Depiction of our experimental reconstruction of lime bast cordage and hitch knot. This reconstruction was made by Mikkel Hollmann and Olof Pipping using a spinning hook. Note that some sections are two ply while others are four ply. Mikael Fauvette

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AlUla, Saudi Arabia – The fascinating, ancient and vibrant story of Dadan, the former capital of the Kingdoms of Dadan and Lihyan, is revealed for global audiences to discover and explore in-depth in a new permanent exhibition titled ‘Illuminating Discoveries – Uncovering the layers of Dadan’s History’.

Displayed at the spectacular Dadan archaeological site in the ancient oasis city of AlUla, northwest Arabia, the permanent interpretive exhibition presents the diverse crafts, practices and evidence of ancient intercultural exchange, highlighting Dadan’s role as a major political and trading center on the Incense Road during the 1^st millennium BCE and earlier.

Presenting an exciting new chapter in the modern world’s knowledge of ancient Arabia and its storied history, ‘Illuminating Discoveries – Uncovering the layers of Dadan’s History’ features more than 100 artifacts painstakingly recovered from the ruins by international teams working in AlUla’s Dadan archaeological site and the mountaintop sanctuary of Umm Daraj in the last five years.

With the camel’s domestication opening vast new overland routes, the incense trade flourished, elevating Dadan into a thriving powerhouse of commerce and cross-cultural connection. Over time, the Incense Road grew into one of the most lucrative and influential trading networks of the ancient world, shaping economies and societies across thousands of kilometers.

Artifacts now on display depict the breadth of traders’ journeys placing AlUla at the center of a surprisingly connected and sophisticated global network. Highlighted objects include figurines with connections to Greece, a Roman or Byzantine bone hairpin and inscriptions in stone in a south Arabian language.

A dynasty of cultured and sophisticated civilizations interconnected with the ancient world, where farming began in Dadan around the 3^rd millennia BCE. Archaeologists have found evidence of handcraft from the 2^nd millennia BCE, a thousand years before the establishment of the Roman Empire.

Evidence of a deep tradition of craft as part of daily life shows the sophistication and human ingenuity of the people. New finds include examples of complex metal work, as well as evidence for the production of textiles made by weaving and spinning techniques. Once central to life in the city, these traditions and crafts are being revitalized today as part of the Royal Commission for AlUla’s (RCU) cultural and heritage regeneration of AlUla.

Including unique objects, the majority of which have never been displayed to the public before, the exhibition is spread across five comprehensive sections: Crafts and Daily Life in Ancient Dadan; Exchange and Trade; Ancient Beliefs and Rituals; Scripts in Stone; and Umm Daraj.

Included among the collection of ancient items is a copper-alloy spearhead dating from around 400–50 BCE. Surveys across the cliffs of Dadan revealed hundreds of inscriptions and striking rock art, including a battle scene showing four riders armed with long spears, while rock art from the adjoining desert valley of Wadi Al Naam depicts a horseman with a spear hunting an ostrich.

Dating to the late 4^th to 1^st century BCE, a terracotta head was discovered in an urban neighborhood in Dadan. Imported from the ancient Greek world, it may once have formed part of a Tanagra figurine – a style of small, finely modeled figures produced in central Greece and traded widely across the Mediterranean and even as far as Babylon. The head highlights how Mediterranean styles were absorbed into the cultural landscape and traded across northwest Arabia during the Lihyanite period.

Dating from 400–50 BCE, a striking statue, with the inlay still visible in one eye, uncovered in an ancient shrine at the foot of Dadan’s cliffs showcases the fine craftsmanship of highly symbolic items produced during the Lihyanite period, while another statuette marked by its long hair was also found in the same location. The standing figure, dressed in a belted garment, has only one surviving arm hanging straight at the side. Its eyes would have once been inlaid with bone.

A fragment of sandstone inscription from the 1^st millennium BCE wonderfully preserves part of a monumental Ancient South Arabian (Minaic) inscription. Carved in bold relief and likely originating from an ancient public or religious building, only two signs – w and d – survive, but together they likely refer to Wadd, the chief deity worshipped by the Minaean community at Dadan. The Minaeans, merchants from the south Arabian kingdom of Ma‘in, established a presence in Dadan as part of their long-distance trading networks, leaving behind inscriptions that record their cultural practices.

As an example of ancient language in its written form, the stone fragment shares a connection with the nearby ‘open air library’ at Jabal Ikmah. Inscribed on UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register, Jabal Ikmah is home to almost 300 inscriptions predominantly dated to when the Dadanites and Lihyanites ruled from Dadan.

Dr. Abdurahman Alsuhaibani, Vice President of Culture at RCU and Co-Director of the Dadan Project, said: “Dadan is a truly remarkable place that one could say was the world’s first truly connected center. An ancient capital, it was one of the most sophisticated and important cities of its time – a fascinating fact that continues to reveal itself through the incredible range and diversity of artifacts uncovered by teams of Saudi and international experts on the ground. This wonderful new, permanent exhibition offers visitors unique insights into the lives, beliefs and practices of the people of Dadan, how they ruled the region and how they interacted with other cultures.”

The exhibition was made possible by a collaboration between the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU), The French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) and the French Agency for AlUla Development (AFALULA), who have led Saudi-French archaeological missions leading on the excavations in Dadan in recent years.

The 2025–26 season in AlUla launches one of the region’s most diverse heritage research efforts to date, with more than 100 archaeologists and specialists from leading Saudi and international institutions working across over six major projects. From new excavations at Hegra and Dadan to large-scale inscription and environmental studies, this is AlUla’s most ambitious programme yet—advancing knowledge, building Saudi capacity, and reinforcing the Kingdom’s position as a global leader in cultural heritage research.

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Above and below: Artifacts from Illuminating Discoveries — Uncovering the Layers of Dadan’s History. AlUla

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Dadan. AlUla

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The tombs of ancient Dadan. AlUla

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Visitors to AlUla who book a ticket to the Dadan and Jabal Ikmah tour will enjoy exclusive access to the ‘Illuminating Discoveries – Uncovering the layers of Dadan’s History’ as part of their experience.

For more information, visit experiencealula.com

For further information, please contact: RCU.Destinations@bursonglobal.com

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About AlUla:

Located 1,100 km from Riyadh, in North-West Saudi Arabia, AlUla is a place of extraordinary natural and human heritage. The vast area, covering 22,561km², includes a lush oasis valley, towering sandstone mountains and ancient cultural heritage sites dating back thousands of years to when the Lihyan and Nabataean kingdoms reigned.

The most well-known and recognised site in AlUla is Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. A 52-hectare ancient city, Hegra was the principal southern city of the Nabataean Kingdom and is comprised of 111 well-preserved tombs, many with elaborate facades cut out of the sandstone outcrops surrounding the walled urban settlement.

Current research also suggests Hegra was the most southern outpost of the Roman Empire after the Romans conquered the Nabataeans in 106 CE.

In addition to Hegra, AlUla is also home to ancient Dadan, the capital of the Kingdoms of Dadan and Lihyan, and considered to be one of the most developed 1st millennium BCE cities of the Arabian Peninsula, and Jabal Ikmah, an open-air library of hundreds of inscriptions in many different languages, which has been recently listed on the UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register. Also AlUla Old Town Village, a labyrinth of around 900 mudbrick dwellings and buildings, developed from at least the 12th century, which has been selected as one of the World’s Best Tourism Villages in 2022 by the UNWTO.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology—Concrete was the foundation of the ancient Roman empire. It enabled Rome’s storied architectural revolution as well as the construction of buildings, bridges, and aqueducts, many of which are still used some 2,000 years after their creation.

In 2023, MIT Associate Professor Admir Masic and his collaborators published a paper describing the manufacturing process that gave Roman concrete its longevity: Lime fragments were mixed with volcanic ash and other dry ingredients before the addition of water. Once water is added to this dry mix, heat is produced. As the concrete sets, this “hot-mixing” process traps and preserves the highly reactive lime as small, white, gravel-like features. When cracks form in the concrete, the lime clasts redissolve and fill the cracks, giving the concrete self-healing properties.

There was only one problem: The process Masic’s team described was different from the one described by the famed ancient Roman architect Vitruvius. Vitruvius literally wrote the book on ancient architecture. His highly influential work, “De architectura,” written in the 1st century B.C.E., is the first known book on architectural theory. In it, Vitruvius says that Romans added water to lime to create a paste-like material before mixing it with other ingredients.

“Having a lot of respect for Vitruvius, it was difficult to suggest that his description may be inaccurate,” Masic says. “The writings of Vitruvius played a critical role in stimulating my interest in ancient Roman architecture, and the results from my research contradicted these important historical texts.”

Now, Masic and his collaborators have confirmed that hot-mixing was indeed used by the Romans, a conclusion he reached by studying a newly discovered ancient construction site in Pompeii that was exquisitely preserved by the volcanic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in the year 79 C.E. They also characterized the volcanic ash material the Romans mixed with the lime, finding a surprisingly diverse array of reactive minerals that further added to the concrete’s ability to repair itself many years after these monumental structures were built.

“There is the historic importance of this material, and then there is the scientific and technological importance of understanding it,” Masic explains. “This material can heal itself over thousands of years, it is reactive, and it is highly dynamic. It has survived earthquakes and volcanoes. It has endured under the sea and survived degradation from the elements. We don’t want to completely copy Roman concrete today. We just want to translate a few sentences from this book of knowledge into our modern construction practices.”

The findings are described in a forthcoming paper in Nature Communications. Joining Masic on the paper are first authors Ellie Vaserman ’25 and Principal Research Scientist James Weaver, along with Associate Professor Kristin Bergmann, PhD candidate Claire Hayhow, and six other Italian collaborators.

Uncovering ancient secrets

Masic has spent close to a decade studying the chemical composition of the concrete that allowed Rome’s famous structures to endure for so much longer than their modern counterparts. His 2023 paper analyzed the material’s chemical composition to deduce how it was made.

That paper used samples from a city wall in Priverno in southwest Italy, which was conquered by the Romans in the 4th century B.C.E. But there was a question as to whether this wall was representative of other concrete structures built throughout the Roman empire.

The recent discovery by archaeologists of an active ancient construction site in Pompeii (complete with raw material piles and tools) therefore offered an unprecedented opportunity.

For the study, the researchers analyzed samples from these pre-mixed dry material piles, a wall that was in the process of being built, completed buttress and structural walls, and mortar repairs in an existing wall.

“We were blessed to be able to open this time capsule of a construction site and find piles of material ready to be used for the wall,” Masic says. “With this paper, we wanted to clearly define a technology and associate it with the Roman period in the year 79 C.E.”

The site offered the clearest evidence yet that the Romans used hot-mixing in concrete production. Not only did the concrete samples contain the lime clasts described in Masic’s previous paper, but the team also discovered intact quicklime fragments pre-mixed with other ingredients in a dry raw material pile, a critical first step in the preparation of hot-mixed concrete.

Bergman, an associate professor of earth and planetary sciences, helped develop tools for differentiating the materials at the site.

“Through these stable isotope studies, we could follow these critical carbonation reactions over time, allowing us to distinguish hot-mixed lime from the slaked lime originally described by Vitruvius,” Masic says. “These results revealed that the Romans prepared their binding material by taking calcined limestone (quicklime), grinding them to a certain size, mixing it dry with volcanic ash, and then eventually adding water to create a cementing matrix.”

The researchers also analyzed the volcanic ingredients in the cement, including a type of volcanic ash called pumice. They found that the pumice particles chemically reacted with the surrounding pore solution over time, creating new mineral deposits that further strengthened the concrete.

Rewriting history

Masic says the archaeologists listed as co-authors on the paper were indispensable to the study. When Masic first entered the Pompeii site, as he inspected the perfectly preserved work area, tears came to his eyes.

“I expected to see Roman workers walking between the piles with their tools,” Masic says. “It was so vivid, you felt like you were transported in time. So yes, I got emotional looking at a pile of dirt. The archaeologists made some jokes.”

Masic notes that calcium is a key component in both ancient and modern concretes, so understanding how it reacts over time holds lessons for understanding dynamic processes in modern cement as well. Towards these efforts, Masic has also started a company, DMAT, that uses lessons from ancient Roman concrete to create long-lasting modern concretes.

“This is relevant because Roman cement is durable, it heals itself, and it’s a dynamic system,” Masic says. “The way these pores in volcanic ingredients can be filled through recrystallization is a dream process we want to translate into our modern materials. We want materials that regenerate themselves.”

As for Vitruvius, Masic guesses that he may have been misinterpreted. He points out that Vitruvius also mentions latent heat during the cement mixing process, which could suggest hot-mixing after all.

The work was supported, in part, by the MIT Research Support Committee (RSC) and the MIT Concrete Sustainability Hub.

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An ancient Pompeii wall at a newly excavated site, where Associate Professor Admir Masic applied compositional analysis (overlayed to right) to understand how ancient Romans made concrete that has endured for thousands of years. Archaeological Park of Pompeii

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Article Source: Massachusetts Institute of Technology news release.

*“An unfinished Pompeian construction site reveals ancient Roman building technology,” Nature Communications, 10.1038/s41467-025-66634-7  

University of Wollongong—An international team of scientists, including the University of Wollongong (UOW), has found compelling evidence that a changing climate played a role in the extinction of the early human species Homo floresiensis, also known as ‘hobbits’. Their research, published in Communications Earth & Environment, reveals the hobbits abandoned Liang Bua – a cave they had occupied for around 140,000 years – during a drought that lasted for thousands of years.

The team combined chemical records from cave stalagmites with isotopic data from fossil teeth from a pygmy elephant species (Stegodon florensis insularis) that hobbits hunted. The results reveal an extensive drying trend beginning around 76,000 years ago, culminating in severe drought between 61,000 and 55,000 years ago, around the time the hobbits disappeared. Prolonged drought and competition for resources may have driven their departure from Liang Bua and, ultimately, their extinction.

The discovery highlights how environmental conditions can reshape the course of species survival, and how changing rainfall influenced the fate of our close relatives.

“The ecosystem around Liang Bua became dramatically drier around the time Homo floresiensis vanished,” said UOW Honorary Professor Dr Mike Gagan, the lead author of the study. “Summer rainfall fell and river-beds became seasonally dry, placing stress on both hobbits and their prey.”

The discovery builds on decades of groundbreaking UOW research into Homo floresiensis, first discovered in 2003 in Liang Bua on the Indonesian island of Flores. Dubbed the hobbit due to its tiny stature, Homo floresiensis challenged prevailing theories of human evolution. It disappears from the fossil record around 50,000 years ago, but its fate has remained an enigma.

The scientists used stalagmites, a natural archive of rainfall, to reconstruct past climate and rainfall. Analysis of oxygen-isotopes in fossil tooth enamel showed the pygmy elephants relied on river water, which became increasingly scarce. The pygmy elephant population fell steeply around 61,000 years ago, meaning that an important food source for the hobbits was disappearing.

“Surface freshwater, Stegodon and Homo floresiensis all decline at the same time, showing the compounding effects of ecological stress,” UOW Honorary Fellow Dr Gert van den Berg said. “Competition for dwindling water and food probably forced the hobbits to abandon Liang Bua.”

While Homo floresiensis fossils pre-date the earliest evidence of modern humans on Flores, Homo sapiens were traversing the Indonesian archipelago around the time the hobbits disappeared.

“It’s possible that as the hobbits moved in search of water and prey, they encountered modern humans,” Dr Gagan said. “In that sense, climate change may have set the stage for their final disappearance.”

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The research team on site in Flores, Indonesia. Garry K Smith

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Fossil jaw-bone (with adult teeth) from Stegodon florensis insularis at Liang Bua. Mika R Puspaningrum

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Wae Racang valley, where Homo floresiensis and Stegodon once roamed.

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Article Source: University of Wollongong news release.

About the research

‘Onset of summer aridification and the decline of Homo floresiensis at Liang Bua 61,000 years ago’ by Michael K. Gagan, Linda K. Ayliffe, Mika R. Puspaningrum, Gerrit van den Bergh, Nick Scroxton, Wahyoe S .Hantoro, Heather Scott-Gagan, Scott A. Condie, R. Lawrence Edwards, HaiCheng, Jian-xin Zhao, JohnC. Hellstrom, Alena K. Kimbrough, Matthew J. Gagan, Bambang W. Suwargadi, Joan A. Cowley, Bronwyn C. Dixon, Garry K. Smith, Neil Anderson, Henri Wong and Hamdi Rifai, was published in Communications Earth & Environment: https://www.nature.com/articles/s43247-025-02961-3