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Oldest Ancient Temple Unearthed in Cyprus
Context:
A team of archaeologists from the University of Siena has discovered a 4,000-year-old temple, thought to be the oldest sacred site on the island of Cyprus.
Discovery of the Temple:
- Archaeologists from the University of Siena uncovered a 4,000-year-old temple in Erimi, Cyprus, part of the Erimi Archaeological Project.
- The excavation revealed a unique sacred space dating back to the Middle Bronze Age (2000-1600 BCE).
Features of the Temple:
- Central to the temple was a 2.30-meter-tall monolith with a polished surface and a circular motif of small cups, likely used in rituals.
- The room surrounding the monolith contained artefacts such as an amphora and a hearth, suggesting it was a sacred space within the artisan community.
Discovery of the Skeleton:
- Inside the temple, archaeologists found the skeleton of a young woman, approximately 20 years old, showing signs of a violent death.
- Her skull was fractured, possibly by a spear, and a heavy stone was placed on her chest, indicating a ritualistic attempt to immobilise her spirit.
Significance and Context:
- The temple’s discovery marks the oldest documented sacred site in Cyprus, shedding light on ancient religious practices and community life.
- The finding suggests connections to other femicide cases in ancient Cyprus, possibly linked to issues related to maternity and community beliefs.
Archaeological Context:
- Located in a larger settlement with residential units, workshops, and a burial site, the temple was part of a thriving artisan community known for producing textiles.
- The site overlooks the Kouris River and the Gulf of Kourion, offering a strategic location for ancient inhabitants.
Preservation and Future Research:
The temple and its artefacts were preserved by a fire that caused the structure to collapse, sealing them off for millennia. Ongoing research seeks to understand the community’s practices, beliefs, and reasons for abandoning the temple.