A Remarkable Discovery
At the bottom of the Mediterranean Sea, archaeologists have made a remarkable discovery – the ruins of a 7,000-year-old Stone Age road. This incredible find was uncovered after studying satellite photographs of the sea surrounding the now-submerged Neolithic site of Soline, off the coast of Croatia.
The Remnants of an Ancient Civilization
Connecting Islands and Civilizations
It is believed that this ancient road once connected the Croatian islands of Korcula and the region of Soline, when it was the location of the ancient Hvar civilization. This road serves as a testament to the ingenuity and engineering prowess of our ancestors, linking the Adriatic island of Korcula to the mainland for the first time.
The Pioneers of Discovery
The initial investigation that led to this groundbreaking discovery was spearheaded by archaeologist Mate Parica and his colleagues from the University of Zadar. Parica, who made the initial discovery, attributed the remarkable preservation of the site to the surrounding islands, which “cut” the waves and protected the coast, preventing a natural disaster from occurring at the location.
Unraveling the Mysteries of the Past
Dating the Soline Settlement
Through radiocarbon research on the preserved wood found at the site, archaeologists have determined that the Soline settlement dates back to approximately 4,900 BC. This evidence suggests that the road was constructed by the Hvar-Lisičići culture during the Stone Age.
A Marvel of Ancient Engineering
The road itself is a testament to the engineering capabilities of our ancient ancestors. Measuring approximately 4 meters wide, it was skillfully constructed using stone slabs, showcasing the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the Hvar-Lisičići culture.
Trade Routes and Cultural Exchange
According to historians and archaeologists, the Stone Age Hvar culture is believed to have established trade routes between the island and the eastern Mediterranean coastlines of what is now western Asia. This discovery not only sheds light on the advanced engineering skills of our ancestors but also hints at the cultural and economic ties that existed between these ancient civilizations.
As we continue to unravel the secrets of the past, discoveries like this 7,000-year-old Stone Age road remind us of the remarkable achievements and resilience of human civilization, even in the most ancient of times.
