The discovery of an ancient structure in Greece has become a threat to the construction of the airport

Archaeological find has scientists stumped

A mysterious Minoan structure discovered on a hilltop on the island of Crete is one of 35 recently announced archaeological finds in the area. Animal bones found at the excavation site suggest that it could have been used for ritual ceremonies.

Photo: ru.wikipedia.org

Archaeologists on the Greek island of Crete have discovered a monumental ancient structure that threatens to halt construction of a new airport. It belonged to the Minoan civilization and was mainly used between 2000 and 1700 BC, around the same time when the monumental palaces of Crete at Knossos and Phaistos were built.

But, unlike these palaces and other masterpieces of Minoan architecture, the purpose of the building remains unknown, and currently it is the subject of close attention of archaeologists.

“The structure resembles a huge car wheel from above,” — Nicholas Paphitis tells the Associated Press (AP).

According to a statement from the Greek Ministry of Culture, some features of the structure are comparable to Minoan tombs, including the arrangement of stone rings in a circle and the complex layout. However, the large number of ancient animal bones found nearby has made it difficult for researchers to understand the site.

«It may have been periodically used for ritual ceremonies involving the consumption of food, wine, and possibly offerings,&rdash; says a representative of the Greek Ministry of Culture.

As archaeologists continue to excavate and study a building located on top of the Papoura hill, near the town of Kastelli, they must decide the fate of the hilltop's future function: a planned radar station for Crete's new international airport may not be built. The fact is that starting from 2027, the airport will serve the capital of the island of Heraklion.

Once completed, the airport is projected to be used by eighteen million passengers a year, AP reports. Tourism threatens the integrity of Greece's ancient sites, forcing the government to take protective measures such as limiting the number of visitors to the Acropolis of Athens.

Excavations in the area have uncovered at least 35 other archaeological sites, according to the statement. As Greek authorities build Crete's new airport and the network of roads needed to connect it with the rest of the island, they must constantly strike a balance between innovation and cultural preservation.

In her statement, Culture Minister Lina Mendoni describes construction as a unique find of great interest. According to her, the Greek government and airport officials will explore alternative options for locating the radar station to ensure the safety of this historically significant archaeological site.

“It is possible to continue construction of the airport while ensuring the protection of the ancient monuments that they deserve.” , — adds Mendoni.