Archaeologists in North Macedonia have made a groundbreaking discovery near the village of Crnobuki, unearthing the remains of a long-lost city believed to be the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Lyncestis. This site, known as Gradishte, may provide crucial insights into the life and times of Alexander the Great and his lineage.

Key Takeaways

  • The Gradishte site was initially thought to be a Roman military outpost but is now believed to be much older, dating back to the Bronze Age.
  • Recent excavations revealed artifacts, including a coin from Alexander the Great’s era, pushing the timeline of the city back by over a century.
  • The site may be the birthplace of Queen Eurydice I, Alexander’s grandmother, highlighting its historical significance.

Rediscovering Gradishte

Located near Crnobuki, the Gradishte archaeological site was first mentioned in literature in 1966. Initially dismissed as a military outpost from the Roman era, recent excavations have revealed a vibrant urban center that predates Rome by centuries. Using advanced technologies like LiDAR and ground-penetrating radar, researchers have uncovered evidence of a complex society that thrived in this region.

Significant Findings

The excavation team, comprising researchers from the National Institute and Museum–Bitola and California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, has made several notable discoveries:

  • Artifacts: Stone axes, pottery fragments, game pieces, and a rare clay theater ticket.
  • Coin: A coin minted between 325 and 323 BCE, during Alexander the Great’s lifetime, indicating the city’s significance during his reign.
  • Structures: Evidence of a seven-acre acropolis, a possible Macedonian-style theater, and a textile workshop, suggesting a well-developed urban infrastructure.

Historical Context

The city is believed to be Lyncus, the capital of the Kingdom of Lyncestis, which was an independent polity until its conquest by Philip II of Macedon, Alexander’s father, in the fourth century BCE. The discovery of this site sheds light on the political and cultural dynamics of ancient Macedonia, particularly its trade routes and connections to other civilizations.

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The Role of Technology in Archaeology

The use of LiDAR technology has been pivotal in revealing the site’s layout and structures hidden beneath dense vegetation. This method allows archaeologists to visualize the topography and identify features that are not visible to the naked eye. The findings suggest that Gradishte was not merely a military outpost but a significant urban center that played a crucial role in the region’s history.

Future Excavations

The research team plans to continue excavations at Gradishte, aiming to uncover more artifacts and structures that could further illuminate the history of this ancient city. As Engin Nasuh, a curator-advisor archaeologist, stated, "We are only beginning to scratch the surface of what we can learn about this period."

This discovery not only enhances our understanding of ancient Macedonia but also contributes to the broader narrative of early European civilizations, connecting the past with the present in a rich tapestry of history.

Sources

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