In the rugged terrain of the Caucasus mountains, a stunning archaeological discovery has come to light—the remains of a massive Bronze Age fortress known as Dmanisis Gora.
According to Knewz, The recent unearthing of the expansive Bronze Age structure known as Dmanisis Gora in the Caucasus has left researchers both intrigued and puzzled by its size and purpose.
Researchers detailed the finding in a study published in the journal "Antiquity," where they utilized drone technology to capture the vast scope of the fortress. This advanced method revealed that Dmanisis Gora, dating back to between the second and first millennia BCE, spanned an unexpectedly large area without showing any signs of permanent residency.
This prehistoric site is strategically positioned at a historical crossroads between Europe and Asia and stands unmatched in elevation compared to other nearby fortresses. The drone imagery was crucial, exposing a complex featuring inner and outer fortification walls constructed from rough boulders, laid without the use of mortar. These fortifications encompass a significant area, highlighting the site's potential importance in its era.
Dr. Nathaniel Erb-Satullo, the lead researcher on the project, expressed his surprise at the findings. "The results of this survey showed that the site was more than 40 times larger than originally thought, including a large outer settlement defended by a 1-kilometer-long [0.6-mile] fortification wall," he noted.
The peculiar absence of any residential evidence in the outer areas of Dmanisis Gora has sparked a debate among historians and archaeologists regarding its use. The extensive fortifications suggest a significant investment of resources and labor, yet the lack of artifacts typically associated with habitation challenges conventional explanations of its purpose.
One prevailing theory suggests the fortress might not have been a permanent settlement but rather a seasonal site used by pastoralist groups. This theory aligns with the presence of expansive outer walls, possibly used to protect livestock or as a staging ground during certain times of the year.
The fortress of Dmanisis Gora not only intrigues with its mysterious past but also showcases the evolving techniques in archaeological study. "The use of drones has allowed us to understand the significance of the site and document it in a way that simply wouldn’t be possible on the ground," said Dr. Erb-Satullo. This breakthrough in research methodology opens new doors for examining other large-scale ancient sites around the world.
By mapping the area comprehensively, researchers hope that further study will shed light on various aspects such as how dense the population might have been, the patterns of livestock movement, and agricultural practices of the time.
With Dmanisis Gora now thoroughly documented, the scope for future research is vast. There is a potential to uncover details about the social and economic fabric of the region during the Late Bronze and Iron Ages, providing insights into the interaction between transient and sedentary lifestyles.
"If the occupation of the inner fortress and outer settlement were roughly contemporary, as we suggest, this settlement would be one of the largest known in the South Caucasus Late Bronze and Iron Age," the study authors explained. This could redefine our understanding of settlement patterns and the architectural capabilities of ancient societies in the region.
The discovery of Dmanisis Gora is a landmark event that not only deepens our understanding of ancient architecture but also enhances our methodology in archaeology. It serves as a compelling case study for the integration of new technology in archaeological research, revolutionizing how we uncover and interpret the past.
As the excavation progresses, the academic community and the world await eagerly more revelations that could potentially alter our historical narratives about the ancient civilizations that once inhabited the Caucasus mountains.
The exploration of Dmanisis Gora continues to be a beacon for archaeological and historical studies, promising new insights and a richer comprehension of our ancient heritage.
