<![CDATA[Archaeologists have found evidence that ritualistic practices related to astronomy took place in Western Pomerania during the Mesolithic period about 9000 years ago. They discovered the new artefacts in Bolków, which is near Lake Swidwie in Western Pomerania. At the same site earlier this year scientists discovered meteorite fragments dating back more than 9000 years. Since then, archaeologists have been in the area digging around to see what they can find. The recent discovery was made by archaeologists from the Institute of Archaeology and Ethnology in Szcecin, Poland. Pomerania is a historical region that lies on the south shore of the Baltic Sea. The region is divided between Germany and Poland, and stretches from the Recknitz river in the west, to the mouth of the Leba river near Lebork. The area is characterized by large farmlands, forests, towns, and lakes. It is believed that the first settlers arrived here about 13,000 years ago. Over the years, there have been artefacts collected from the Stone Age, Bronze Age, and Iron Age. Different cultures and people have been represented in the area, such as the Baltic and Germanic peoples, along with the Slavic tribes and the Vikings. Scientists discovered a 9,000 year old hut in Bolków, which contained fragments of a meteorite that may have been used for shamanic purposes. It was not identified as a meteorite fragment until earlier this year. The meteorite was not the only remarkable object found in the hut. Other objects that could have been used for ritualistic shamanic purposes, such as an amulet, a magic staff that had antlers on it and geometric shapes engraved into it, and an engraved bone spear, were also discovered. Since unearthing all these mystical objects, scientists have continued to try to find out more about the area. The researchers' most recent discovery includes the remains of two pine and aspen pole structures containing animal bones, pine and birch pieces and bunches of grass. The structures are estimated to have stood at a height of 1.5 meters. From their findings, the scientists speculate that this ancient civilization had a belief system entrenched in animals and plants. The bundles also show what the environment looked like during the Mesolithic Period. That's not all, as the scientists discovered seven well-preserved yew stalks driven into the ground in a distinct pattern. This pattern shows how fascinated the natives were with the stars, as it is modelled after the Big Dipper, officially known as Ursa Major. The scientists from Poland and other areas will continue digging in the area to see what else they can find that could give them more insight into how the ancient people's lives related to astronomy.]]>
Archaeologists Discover Mesolithic Sanctuary in Poland
