March 7, 2025 • 11 mins
In this episode of Bell's Books and Blog Podcast, Jane M. Bell takes the listeners on a journey back in time, discussing significant archaeological discoveries that rewrite our understanding of ancient civilizations. She explores the long-lost Mayan palace found in the Yucatán jungle of Mexico and talks about the archaeological evidence that a human settlement existed in British Columbia's Triquet Island over 14,000 years ago. Finally, she discusses the find of the world’s oldest known bracelet discovered in a Siberian cave alongside the remains of the Denisovans, an extinct human species. The discoveries challenged conventional timelines, providing fresh insights about human migration, architectural prowess, and sophisticated craftsmanship.
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Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:04):
Welcome to The Bell's Books and Blog podcast, the place
where history, mystery, and suspense converge. I'm your host, author
Jane M. Bell. Today, I have an exciting episode lined
up for you, filled with remarkable archaeological discoveries that challenge
our understanding of ancient civilizations. First, we'll explore a fascinating
find deep in the Yucatan Jungle of Mexico, a long
(00:27):
lost Mayan palace that has recently been unearthed. Then we'll
journey to Triquet Island off the coast of British Columbia,
where ancient ruins older than the Egyptian Pyramids have been uncovered,
offering new insights into early human settlements in North America. Finally,
we'll delve into the discovery of the world's oldest known bracelet,
found in a Siberian cave alongside the remains of an
(00:49):
extinct human species. These revelations don't just change our perception
of the past, they transform how we see ourselves today.
So let's get started on this incredible journey back through time.
Archaeologists have made a groundbreaking discovery in the heart of
Mexico's Yucatan Jungle, an ancient Mayan palace that dates back
(01:11):
over one thousand years. Stretching one hundred eighty feet long,
this remarkable structure sheds light on the architectural prowess of
the Mayan civilization, renowned for its intricate craftsmanship and rich
cultural history. A stunning find in Kuluba, the palace was
unearthed in Koluba, an ancient city located just west of Cancun.
(01:33):
According to a report by the Guardian, this impressive building
stands nineteen feet high forty nine feet wide and as
part of a larger complex that includes an altar, a
large round oven, and two residential rooms. Perhaps most intriguingly,
archaeologists also discovered human remains at a burial site, adding
a layer of depth to this archaeological treasure. The discovery
(01:56):
was announced on December twenty fourth by Mexico's National Institute
of Anthropology and History. Lead archaeologist Alfredo Berrera Rubio believes
that the palace was utilized across two significant periods of
Mayan history, the Late Classical period six hundred nine hundred
AD and the Terminal Classical period eight fifty ten fifty
(02:17):
a d. However, much remains to be unveiled. We know
very little about the architectural characteristics of this region the
northeast of Yucatan. Rubio explained, our main objectives include the
protection and restoration of cultural heritage, as well as studying
the architecture of Kaluba. This is just the beginning architectural
(02:39):
marvels and mysteries. One of the most fascinating aspects of
this palace is its design. Researchers believe it was constructed
to resemble a giant snake, a significant figure in Mayan mythology.
The temple's finishes, which would have once suggested the appearance
of snake scales, are enhanced by stone reliefs at its entrances,
resembling the jaws of an earth mande monster. The site
(03:02):
was initially discovered in nineteen thirty nine by American archaeologist
Willis Andrews. The four but dense forest growth concealed it
from view for decades. With financial support from the Yucatan
State government, Rubio and his team are finally able to excavate, conserve,
and map this historical two hundred thirty four hectare site.
So far, the researchers have uncovered stairs, corridors adorned with columns,
(03:26):
and other architectural features that have remained hidden for centuries.
This newfound access opens a window into the past, allowing
experts to study the daily lives of the Mayans who
inhabited Kuluba, understanding the inhabitants through human remains. In addition
to the architectural marvels, the discovery of human remains presents
(03:46):
an exciting opportunity for forensic analysis. Researchers hope to learn
more about the individuals who lived in Koluba by determining
their sex, age, health conditions, and dietary habits. These insights
could provide valuable context about the society that thrived in
this ancient city. Conservation efforts to protect the site. As
(04:08):
the site continues to be excavated, conservation workers are using
the natural environment to help protect the structure. According to
conservation worker Natalia Hernandez Tangarief, reforesting certain areas with trees
can shield the palace from direct sunlight and wind. This
approach not only preserves the site, but also respects the
natural beauty of the Yucatan jungle. The future of Koluba
(04:32):
with ongoing excavations and conservation efforts, the potential for further
discoveries at Koluba is immense. As researchers continue to uncover
this ancient palace, they hope to reveal more about the
fascinating history of the Mayans, one of the most storied
civilizations in human history. Now, let's move on to another
astonishing discovery, one that might make you rethink what you
(04:55):
know about ancient history. This time, we're heading to Treque
Island off the Ca coast of British Columbia, Canada, where
an ancient settlement has been found that's over fourteen thousand
years old. This incredible discovery predates the Egyptian Pyramids by
more than ninety three hundred years, completely shifting our timeline
of human history in North America. The team of PhD
(05:17):
students from the University of Victoria unearthed this settlement based
on oral histories passed down by the indigenous Heiltzuk people.
These stories spoke of a piece of land that remained
unfrozen during the Last Ice Age, making it a refuge
for early humans. As the researchers dug deeper, they found
more than just intriguing artifacts. They uncovered a window into
(05:38):
a life that existed millennia ago. Among the relics discovered
were ancient fish hooks, spears, and tools used for fire making,
but perhaps the most significant find was an ancient cooking hearth.
Flakes of charcoal from the hearth were carbon dated, confirming
the settlement's astonishing age. Alicia Govreau, one of the leading
(05:58):
students on the project, was flot bored by the dating results.
I remember when we got the dates back and we
just sat back and said, Holy moly, this is old.
She remarked. This discovery holds tremendous historical significance. Just to
give you a sense of context, the Egyptian Pyramids were
constructed around four thousand, seven hundred years ago, which is
(06:18):
often considered a monumental achievement by ancient civilizations. Now imagine
a settlement over three times older than that. In fact, Cleopatra,
the last pharaoh of ancient Egypt, lived closer to our
time than she did to the construction of these pyramids.
What's especially fascinating is how this discovery validates the oral
narratives of the Heiltsuk people. William Husty, a Heiltsuk First
(06:42):
Nation member, highlighted this by saying, to think about how
these stories survived only to be supported by this archaeological
evidence is just amazing. The find doesn't just honor these stories,
it also underscores their critical role in helping us understand
historical human migrations. The implications for human migration are equally profound.
(07:03):
The research team believes that this ancient settlement suggests a
mass human migration down the coast of British Columbia. Alicia
Gauvreau shared that what this is doing is changing our
idea of the way in which North America was first peopled. Essentially,
this discovery helps refine our understanding of how early humans
adapted to different environments and traverse the continent. The team
(07:27):
plans to continue exploring nearby islands, hoping to uncover more
clues about this ancient migration. Each new artifact not only
enriches our understanding, but also challenges the conventional time lines
and theories we've long held about human history. Now, let's
travel to a cave in Siberia for our final topic,
(07:47):
one that truly stretches the limits of our imagination. Researchers
have unearthed the oldest known bracelet, an astonishing artifact dating
back over forty thousand years. This remarkable piece was found
beside the remains of a wooly mammoth and the pinky
bone of a little girl. But here's where it gets
even more fascinating. This little girl was part of an
(08:08):
extinct human species known as the Denisovans. Let's talk about
the bracelet itself. First made from chlorite, this artifact is
stunningly detailed. Anatoly Derivanco, the director of a Russian archaeological institute,
described it as stunning, noting that it reflects sunlight brilliantly
and casts a deep green shade when illuminated by firelight.
(08:31):
The intricate design and advanced craftsmanship of this bracelet suggest
it wasn't just an everyday accessory, but rather a special piece,
likely reserved for significant occasions. The Denisovan species who lived
in this region were previously thought to have migrated from
Africa alongside other hominids between three hundred thousand and four
hundred thousand years ago. The discovery of this bracelet challenges
(08:54):
our previous understanding of these early hominids, showing they had
sophisticated technical skills. Researchers believe the artisans who crafted the
bracelet used techniques like drilling and polishing methods traditionally associated
with much later periods. This suggests that the Denisovans were
far more advanced than we ever imagined. To ensure the
(09:15):
authenticity of the site and the age of the bracelet,
experts conducted an oxygen isotopic analysis of the surrounding soil.
Their findings confirmed the soil had remained undisturbed since the
Denisovan period. This scientific validation adds another layer of credibility
to this fascinating discovery. The implications go beyond just the bracelet.
(09:37):
It prompts us to reconsider the capabilities of early hominids
and the timeline of human innovation. Were the Denisovans capable
of creating more complex tools than we've given them credit for?
Did they have a rich cultural life that involved crafting
intricate jewelry and other forms of art. Each new discovery
like this one doesn't just change what we know. It
(09:57):
challenges us to expand our understanding of human hit history.
And with that we've wrapped up another intriguing chapter of
ancient history. We've covered some truly astounding discoveries today from
a Mayan palace hidden in the Yucatan jungle, to ancient
ruins in Canada that pre date the Egyptian Pyramids, and finally,
the oldest known bracelet crafted by the Denisovans in Siberia.
(10:21):
Each of these finds not only transforms our understanding of
ancient civilizations, but also sheds light on the ingenuity and
complexity of our ancestors. These revelations remind us just how
connected we are to the past and how much there
is still to learn. Whether it's the architectural brilliance of
the Mayans, the resilience of early human settlers in Canada,
(10:42):
or the advanced craftsmanship of the Denisovans, each discovery helps
us piece together the puzzle of human history. I'd love
to hear your thoughts. What do you think is the
most significant contribution of ancient civilizations to modern society? Send
me a message with your insights. Thank you for joining
me on this journey through time on The Bell's Books
(11:03):
and blog podcast, I'm your host Jane M. Bell. Be
sure to check the show notes for any links or
articles mentioned in today's episode. Until next time, keep questioning,
keep exploring, and keep the past alive.
Welcome to The Bell's Books and Blog podcast, the place
where history, mystery, and suspense converge. I'm your host, author
Jane M. Bell. Today, I have an exciting episode lined
up for you, filled with remarkable archaeological discoveries that challenge
our understanding of ancient civilizations. First, we'll explore a fascinating
find deep in the Yucatan Jungle of Mexico, a long
(00:27):
lost Mayan palace that has recently been unearthed. Then we'll
journey to Triquet Island off the coast of British Columbia,
where ancient ruins older than the Egyptian Pyramids have been uncovered,
offering new insights into early human settlements in North America. Finally,
we'll delve into the discovery of the world's oldest known bracelet,
found in a Siberian cave alongside the remains of an
(00:49):
extinct human species. These revelations don't just change our perception
of the past, they transform how we see ourselves today.
So let's get started on this incredible journey back through time.
Archaeologists have made a groundbreaking discovery in the heart of
Mexico's Yucatan Jungle, an ancient Mayan palace that dates back
(01:11):
over one thousand years. Stretching one hundred eighty feet long,
this remarkable structure sheds light on the architectural prowess of
the Mayan civilization, renowned for its intricate craftsmanship and rich
cultural history. A stunning find in Kuluba, the palace was
unearthed in Koluba, an ancient city located just west of Cancun.
(01:33):
According to a report by the Guardian, this impressive building
stands nineteen feet high forty nine feet wide and as
part of a larger complex that includes an altar, a
large round oven, and two residential rooms. Perhaps most intriguingly,
archaeologists also discovered human remains at a burial site, adding
a layer of depth to this archaeological treasure. The discovery
(01:56):
was announced on December twenty fourth by Mexico's National Institute
of Anthropology and History. Lead archaeologist Alfredo Berrera Rubio believes
that the palace was utilized across two significant periods of
Mayan history, the Late Classical period six hundred nine hundred
AD and the Terminal Classical period eight fifty ten fifty
(02:17):
a d. However, much remains to be unveiled. We know
very little about the architectural characteristics of this region the
northeast of Yucatan. Rubio explained, our main objectives include the
protection and restoration of cultural heritage, as well as studying
the architecture of Kaluba. This is just the beginning architectural
(02:39):
marvels and mysteries. One of the most fascinating aspects of
this palace is its design. Researchers believe it was constructed
to resemble a giant snake, a significant figure in Mayan mythology.
The temple's finishes, which would have once suggested the appearance
of snake scales, are enhanced by stone reliefs at its entrances,
resembling the jaws of an earth mande monster. The site
(03:02):
was initially discovered in nineteen thirty nine by American archaeologist
Willis Andrews. The four but dense forest growth concealed it
from view for decades. With financial support from the Yucatan
State government, Rubio and his team are finally able to excavate, conserve,
and map this historical two hundred thirty four hectare site.
So far, the researchers have uncovered stairs, corridors adorned with columns,
(03:26):
and other architectural features that have remained hidden for centuries.
This newfound access opens a window into the past, allowing
experts to study the daily lives of the Mayans who
inhabited Kuluba, understanding the inhabitants through human remains. In addition
to the architectural marvels, the discovery of human remains presents
(03:46):
an exciting opportunity for forensic analysis. Researchers hope to learn
more about the individuals who lived in Koluba by determining
their sex, age, health conditions, and dietary habits. These insights
could provide valuable context about the society that thrived in
this ancient city. Conservation efforts to protect the site. As
(04:08):
the site continues to be excavated, conservation workers are using
the natural environment to help protect the structure. According to
conservation worker Natalia Hernandez Tangarief, reforesting certain areas with trees
can shield the palace from direct sunlight and wind. This
approach not only preserves the site, but also respects the
natural beauty of the Yucatan jungle. The future of Koluba
(04:32):
with ongoing excavations and conservation efforts, the potential for further
discoveries at Koluba is immense. As researchers continue to uncover
this ancient palace, they hope to reveal more about the
fascinating history of the Mayans, one of the most storied
civilizations in human history. Now, let's move on to another
astonishing discovery, one that might make you rethink what you
(04:55):
know about ancient history. This time, we're heading to Treque
Island off the Ca coast of British Columbia, Canada, where
an ancient settlement has been found that's over fourteen thousand
years old. This incredible discovery predates the Egyptian Pyramids by
more than ninety three hundred years, completely shifting our timeline
of human history in North America. The team of PhD
(05:17):
students from the University of Victoria unearthed this settlement based
on oral histories passed down by the indigenous Heiltzuk people.
These stories spoke of a piece of land that remained
unfrozen during the Last Ice Age, making it a refuge
for early humans. As the researchers dug deeper, they found
more than just intriguing artifacts. They uncovered a window into
(05:38):
a life that existed millennia ago. Among the relics discovered
were ancient fish hooks, spears, and tools used for fire making,
but perhaps the most significant find was an ancient cooking hearth.
Flakes of charcoal from the hearth were carbon dated, confirming
the settlement's astonishing age. Alicia Govreau, one of the leading
(05:58):
students on the project, was flot bored by the dating results.
I remember when we got the dates back and we
just sat back and said, Holy moly, this is old.
She remarked. This discovery holds tremendous historical significance. Just to
give you a sense of context, the Egyptian Pyramids were
constructed around four thousand, seven hundred years ago, which is
(06:18):
often considered a monumental achievement by ancient civilizations. Now imagine
a settlement over three times older than that. In fact, Cleopatra,
the last pharaoh of ancient Egypt, lived closer to our
time than she did to the construction of these pyramids.
What's especially fascinating is how this discovery validates the oral
narratives of the Heiltsuk people. William Husty, a Heiltsuk First
(06:42):
Nation member, highlighted this by saying, to think about how
these stories survived only to be supported by this archaeological
evidence is just amazing. The find doesn't just honor these stories,
it also underscores their critical role in helping us understand
historical human migrations. The implications for human migration are equally profound.
(07:03):
The research team believes that this ancient settlement suggests a
mass human migration down the coast of British Columbia. Alicia
Gauvreau shared that what this is doing is changing our
idea of the way in which North America was first peopled. Essentially,
this discovery helps refine our understanding of how early humans
adapted to different environments and traverse the continent. The team
(07:27):
plans to continue exploring nearby islands, hoping to uncover more
clues about this ancient migration. Each new artifact not only
enriches our understanding, but also challenges the conventional time lines
and theories we've long held about human history. Now, let's
travel to a cave in Siberia for our final topic,
(07:47):
one that truly stretches the limits of our imagination. Researchers
have unearthed the oldest known bracelet, an astonishing artifact dating
back over forty thousand years. This remarkable piece was found
beside the remains of a wooly mammoth and the pinky
bone of a little girl. But here's where it gets
even more fascinating. This little girl was part of an
(08:08):
extinct human species known as the Denisovans. Let's talk about
the bracelet itself. First made from chlorite, this artifact is
stunningly detailed. Anatoly Derivanco, the director of a Russian archaeological institute,
described it as stunning, noting that it reflects sunlight brilliantly
and casts a deep green shade when illuminated by firelight.
(08:31):
The intricate design and advanced craftsmanship of this bracelet suggest
it wasn't just an everyday accessory, but rather a special piece,
likely reserved for significant occasions. The Denisovan species who lived
in this region were previously thought to have migrated from
Africa alongside other hominids between three hundred thousand and four
hundred thousand years ago. The discovery of this bracelet challenges
(08:54):
our previous understanding of these early hominids, showing they had
sophisticated technical skills. Researchers believe the artisans who crafted the
bracelet used techniques like drilling and polishing methods traditionally associated
with much later periods. This suggests that the Denisovans were
far more advanced than we ever imagined. To ensure the
(09:15):
authenticity of the site and the age of the bracelet,
experts conducted an oxygen isotopic analysis of the surrounding soil.
Their findings confirmed the soil had remained undisturbed since the
Denisovan period. This scientific validation adds another layer of credibility
to this fascinating discovery. The implications go beyond just the bracelet.
(09:37):
It prompts us to reconsider the capabilities of early hominids
and the timeline of human innovation. Were the Denisovans capable
of creating more complex tools than we've given them credit for?
Did they have a rich cultural life that involved crafting
intricate jewelry and other forms of art. Each new discovery
like this one doesn't just change what we know. It
(09:57):
challenges us to expand our understanding of human hit history.
And with that we've wrapped up another intriguing chapter of
ancient history. We've covered some truly astounding discoveries today from
a Mayan palace hidden in the Yucatan jungle, to ancient
ruins in Canada that pre date the Egyptian Pyramids, and finally,
the oldest known bracelet crafted by the Denisovans in Siberia.
(10:21):
Each of these finds not only transforms our understanding of
ancient civilizations, but also sheds light on the ingenuity and
complexity of our ancestors. These revelations remind us just how
connected we are to the past and how much there
is still to learn. Whether it's the architectural brilliance of
the Mayans, the resilience of early human settlers in Canada,
(10:42):
or the advanced craftsmanship of the Denisovans, each discovery helps
us piece together the puzzle of human history. I'd love
to hear your thoughts. What do you think is the
most significant contribution of ancient civilizations to modern society? Send
me a message with your insights. Thank you for joining
me on this journey through time on The Bell's Books
(11:03):
and blog podcast, I'm your host Jane M. Bell. Be
sure to check the show notes for any links or
articles mentioned in today's episode. Until next time, keep questioning,
keep exploring, and keep the past alive.
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