Every day, there are new discoveries around the world. And although these discoveries are world-changing, they often go unnoticed by many. That’s why we compiled some of the most shocking archaeological discoveries of the last decade that might have been overlooked by the rest of the world. These discoveries deserve a moment in the spotlight.
6. The Mayan Mega-Metropolis
In Guatemala, researchers found a massive Mayan city, surprisingly hidden underneath dense jungle, using laser mapping. The discovery revealed a complex infrastructure, which includes roads, canals, and fortifications, which caused many to believe that it was home to millions during its peak. This is one of the most shocking archaeological discoveries of the last decade, as this city challenges the prior assumptions about the scale and complexity of Mayan civilizations.
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5. The Nazca Line Geoglyphs
It seems like more and more geoglyphs have been discovered over the years, but one of the most surprising archaeological discoveries of the last decade was the intricate details in the Nazca Desert, which showed a massive ancient drawing, visible only from above, which depicts animals, plants, and mysterious shapes. The discovery expands the known collection of Nazca lines, offering more insight into their purpose. Researchers believe that these lines were used in a ceremonial or astronomically significant way.
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4. The Viking Ship Burial
A 1,3000-year-old Viking ship burial was uncovered in Norway in 2023, which provided a rare look into the burial customs and process of the Viking elite. The ship, which was buried beneath a mound, contained remnants of wooden structures and grave goods. While the ship was damaged, the remains were still well-preserved, offering archaeologists a look into the past. Many believe it belonged to a noble or chieftain, given its size and ceremonial significance.
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3. The Lost City of Mahendraparvata
The Mayan city isn’t the only discovery within the last decade. Another one of the most shocking archaeological discoveries includes the Lost City of Mahendraparvata, which was hidden deep in the jungle of Cambodia. Using advanced LIDAR technology, researchers discovered the sprawling remains of the ancient capital. The city was part of the Khmer Empire, and predates the famous Angkor Wat. The discovery provides evidence of sophisticated urban planning, water management, and religious structures.
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2. The Wreck of the Endurance
One of the best archaeological discoveries of the last decade was in 2022 when explorers located the wreck of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s ship, Endurance. The ship had been lost since 1915 and was finally found beneath the icy waters of Antarctica, where the ship was still in excellent condition. Its discovery brought not only closer to one of the greatest survival stories in exploration history, but also a look into the past with this well-preserved time capsule for polar exploration.
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1. The Pompeii Excavations
Pompeii excavations in Italy are still unearthing countless discoveries. And it’s also one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the last decade, as new discoveries have revealed more rooms and artifacts. These discoveries provide a fresh insight into daily Roman life. One of the most significant finds was a remarkably preserved chariot, adorned with intricate decorations, which offered a glimpse into ceremonial practices.
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