Dating back to the pre-Christian era, the Gomareti Steles are among the most significant artifacts of Georgian culture. These stone stelae and crosses, discovered in the vicinity of Gomareti, hold immense value not only for the study of Georgian art history but also for understanding the early history of the Georgian Church. The steles serve as a vital source of historical knowledge, adorned with contemporary ornaments and bearing lapidary inscriptions that classify them as epigraphic monuments. The region of Kvemo Kartli, with Gomareti at its heart, is recognized as a principal center for the study of these ancient artifacts.
Initiation Wells of Quinta da Regaleira Portugal
The Initiation Wells of Quinta da Regaleira are a fascinating architectural and mystical feature located in Sintra, Portugal. These wells, resembling subterranean towers, are lined with stairs and were used for ceremonial purposes that included Tarot initiation rites. The property of Quinta da Regaleira is a decorative 20th-century residence that boasts a luxurious park featuring lakes, grottoes, wells, benches, fountains, and a vast array of exquisite constructions. The wells are connected by underground tunnels and include the ‘Initiation Well’ or ‘Inverted Tower,’ which plunges 27 meters into the earth. The beauty and enigmatic nature of these wells attract visitors from around the world, drawn to their symbolic features that hint at connections to the Knights Templar, the Masons, and alchemy.
Complejo Arqueológico de Todos Santos
The Complejo Arqueológico de Todos Santos is a captivating historical site nestled in the highlands of Ecuador. This archaeological complex offers a window into the past, showcasing the ingenuity and culture of the indigenous people who once thrived in the region. The site includes a variety of structures, such as ancient temples, plazas, and burial sites, which provide invaluable insights into the social and ceremonial practices of its former inhabitants.
S’Ena e Thomes
S’Ena e Thomes is a significant archaeological site located in Sardinia, Italy. It is one of the largest and best-preserved nuragic tombs known as “giants’ graves.” These collective burial sites date back to the Bronze Age, created by the Nuragic civilization. The site stands as a testament to the island’s prehistoric inhabitants and their complex social structures, religious beliefs, and architectural skills.
Zazacatla
Zazacatla is an ancient archaeological site located in the Mexican state of Morelos. It’s a pre-Columbian site that dates back to the early Formative period, around 1400-1000 BC. The site is significant for its early evidence of urban planning and complex society in the region. It provides insights into the early development of civilization in Mesoamerica, particularly the transition from nomadic to sedentary lifestyles.
Pusilha
Pusilha is an ancient Maya archaeological site located in the Toledo District of Belize. It was once a thriving city-state within the Maya civilization, known for its unique stelae and intricate hieroglyphic inscriptions. The site includes a range of structures, such as pyramids, plazas, and a ball court, which offer insights into the political, social, and economic life of the Maya. Pusilha holds a wealth of information for understanding the complex history of the Maya people and their interactions with surrounding city-states.