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Mysterious staircases and debating historians: See the latest ancient discoveries

By Stories by Real-Time news team, with AI summarization
Mysterious staircases and historical debates are part of this week’s archaeology round-up.
Mysterious staircases and historical debates are part of this week’s archaeology round-up. Photo from the University of Udine

The summaries below were drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All linked stories were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.

Throughout history, cultures have left behind a trail of illuminating breadcrumbs for archaeologists to follow. New sites and artifacts are found all the time, revealing forgotten secrets of the past.

Learn more about some recent discoveries:

Mysterious ancient amulet turns out to be oldest trace of Christianity north of Alps

Archaeologists in Frankfurt, Germany, found a 1,750-year-old amulet with a silver scroll and inscription referencing Christianity, photos show.
Archaeologists in Frankfurt, Germany, found a 1,750-year-old amulet with a silver scroll and inscription referencing Christianity, photos show. Photo from the Monument Office of the City of Frankfurt am Main / Uwe Dettmar

In a groundbreaking discovery in the Alps, archaeologists have unearthed an ancient amulet believed to be the oldest trace of Christianity in the region. This remarkable find sheds light on the spread of Christianity in Europe, offering new insights into early religious practices. The amulet, found in December, is a testament to the rich history buried beneath the Alps. | Published Dec. 12 | Read More |

Students unearth massive 1,500-year-old Roman structure in Italy. See the ruins

Archaeologists and students unearthed the 1,500-year-old ruins of huge semicircular room at a Roman bath complex in Aquileia, photos show.
Archaeologists and students unearthed the 1,500-year-old ruins of huge semicircular room at a Roman bath complex in Aquileia, photos show. Photo from the University of Udine

In Italy, students have uncovered a massive Roman structure dating back 1,500 years, revealing the grandeur of ancient Roman architecture. This significant discovery showcases the engineering prowess of the Romans. The ruins, unearthed in December, highlight the enduring legacy of Roman civilization. | Published Dec. 10 | Read More |

Dig at medieval castle in Germany unearths mystery staircase leading into moat. See it

Archaeologists digging up the filled-in moat of Sparrenburg Castle uncovered a forgotten staircase, possibly leading to an unknown cellar.
Archaeologists digging up the filled-in moat of Sparrenburg Castle uncovered a forgotten staircase, possibly leading to an unknown cellar. Screengrab from YouTube video shared by BielefeldJETZT

A mysterious staircase leading into a moat has been discovered during an archaeological dig at a medieval castle in Germany. The find raises questions about the castle’s history and its architectural secrets. The discovery invites further exploration into the medieval past. | Published Dec. 9 | Read More |

Ancient Roman home — and luxurious decorations — uncovered in France. See elite finds

Archaeologists worked to restore decorations from inside a second-century Roman home found in France.
Archaeologists worked to restore decorations from inside a second-century Roman home found in France. Joël Peyrou National Institute for Preventive Archaeological Research

In France, archaeologists have uncovered an ancient Roman home adorned with luxurious decorations, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Roman elite. This discovery highlights the artistic and cultural achievements of the Romans. The find, announced in December, enriches our understanding of Roman domestic life. | Published Dec. 6 | Read More |

Tiny marble bust — depicting royal woman — discovered under Egypt temple wall. See it

Under a temple wall along Egypt’s northern coast, the small, marble bust of a potential queen was discovered.
Under a temple wall along Egypt’s northern coast, the small, marble bust of a potential queen was discovered. George Youssef via Unsplash

A tiny marble bust depicting a royal woman has been discovered under a temple wall in Egypt, providing a rare insight into the artistic representations of royalty in ancient Egypt. However, archaeologists disagree on which royal woman it may represent. The bust underscores the enduring allure of Egypt’s archaeological treasures. | Published Dec. 10 | Read More |

McClatchy News continues to follow the discovery of the most intriguing archaeological discoveries from around the globe. Check back to see the latest finds.

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This story was originally published December 13, 2024 at 10:35 AM with the headline "Mysterious staircases and debating historians: See the latest ancient discoveries."

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