A recent archaeological excavation in Italy has unearthed fascinating evidence of ancient maritime technology dating back over 7,000 years, as reported in Phys.org.
Led by Juan F. Gibaja and his team from the Spanish National Research Council in Barcelona, the study illuminates the sophisticated nautical practices of Neolithic communities in the Mediterranean region.
Ancient Canoes Found in the Mediterranean
The Mediterranean Sea has long been a vital conduit for trade and travel, nurturing some of Europe's most significant civilizations.
During the Neolithic period, communities traversed its waters, evidenced by archaeological discoveries of watercraft and settlements along coastal regions and islands.
The researchers discovered five intricately crafted canoes at the Neolithic lakeshore village of La Marmotta near modern-day Rome.
These canoes, constructed from hollowed-out trees in a technique known as dugout canoe building, offer valuable insights into ancient seafaring technology.
Dating between 5700 and 5100 BC, these canoes exhibit remarkable features that speak to the ingenuity of their creators.
Analysis reveals the use of four different types of wood, suggesting a sophisticated understanding of materials and their properties.
Furthermore, advanced construction techniques such as transverse reinforcements highlight the skill and craftsmanship of Neolithic artisans.
Of particular interest is the discovery of three T-shaped wooden objects associated with one of the canoes. These objects, featuring a series of holes, likely served a functional role in fastening ropes for sails or other maritime equipment.
"This technology was an essential part in the success of their expansion, bearing in mind that in a few millennia they occupied the whole Mediterranean from Cyprus to the Atlantic seaboard of the Iberian Peninsula," the researchers note.
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Ancient Maritime Tech
The significance of these discoveries extends beyond mere artifacts; they provide valuable insights into the technological prowess and maritime capabilities of early Neolithic societies.
The presence of seaworthy vessels suggests a level of sophistication in boat building and navigation previously underestimated by scholars.
"Direct dating of Neolithic canoes from La Marmotta reveals them to be the oldest in the Mediterranean, offering invaluable insights into Neolithic navigation. This study reveals the amazing technological sophistication of early agricultural and pastoral communities, highlighting their woodworking skills and the construction of complex vessels."
The Marmotta canoes serve as remarkable testimony to the achievements of their societies, showcasing the intricate social and technical organization characteristic of those times.
These dugouts, along with their associated elements, embody centuries of accumulated knowledge and experience
The study underscores La Marmotta's importance as a pivotal site for understanding the evolution of maritime technology and its impact on ancient Mediterranean societies.
Future research endeavors may uncover additional evidence, further enriching the understanding of Neolithic navigation and maritime culture.
The study, titled "The first Neolithic boats in the Mediterranean: The settlement of La Marmotta", was published in PLOS ONE.
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