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Floors made of bone and ancient crime scenes — take a look at these recent discoveries

By Stories by Real-Time news team, with AI summarization
An ancient site used during World War II is among recent archaeological discoveries.
An ancient site used during World War II is among recent archaeological discoveries. P. Zambrzycki via Czerner R, Bąkowska-Czerner G, Zambrzycki P, Grzegorek W, Popławski S. (2024) Antiquity

The summaries below were drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All linked stories were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.

Throughout history, cultures have left behind a trail of illuminating breadcrumbs for archaeologists to follow. New sites and artifacts are found all the time, revealing forgotten secrets of the past.

Learn more about some recent discoveries:

Crane operator unearths 500-year-old sewage pit in Netherlands. See rare items inside

A crane operator unearthed a medieval cesspit in Alkmaar. Archaeologists found a very rare wooden grain measuring tool and shoe inside.
A crane operator unearthed a medieval cesspit in Alkmaar. Archaeologists found a very rare wooden grain measuring tool and shoe inside. Photo from Alkmaar municipality's heritage office

A crane operator in the Netherlands made an unexpected discovery of a 500-year-old sewage pit, which contained rare items that provide a unique glimpse into the past. This find offers valuable insights into the daily lives and sanitation practices of people from centuries ago. | Published Dec. 18 | Read More |

Rare centuries-old bone floor uncovered at building in the Netherlands. See the find

Archaeologists uncovered a very rare floor made of chopped cattle bones during the renovation of a medieval building in Alkmaar, photos show.
Archaeologists uncovered a very rare floor made of chopped cattle bones during the renovation of a medieval building in Alkmaar, photos show. Photo from Alkmaar municipality's heritage department

In the Netherlands, archaeologists have uncovered a rare bone floor dating back centuries, adding a fascinating chapter to the region’s historical narrative. This discovery highlights the innovative use of materials in construction during that period. | Published Dec. 18 | Read More |

Tragic accident or deadly attack? Mysterious ancient remains stump experts in Ukraine

A site first excavated in 2004 is now revealing evidence of ancient conflicts.
A site first excavated in 2004 is now revealing evidence of ancient conflicts. Fuchs, et al (2024) PLOS One

In Ukraine, mysterious ancient remains have been found, leaving experts puzzled over whether they are the result of a tragic accident or a deadly attack. This discovery raises intriguing questions about the circumstances surrounding these remains. | Published Dec. 13 | Read More |

Ancient Greco-Roman site — later used in WWII — unearthed in Egypt. See inside

At a site outside Alexandria, Egypt, structures built centuries apart found buried under the sand.
At a site outside Alexandria, Egypt, structures built centuries apart found buried under the sand. Abdullah Ali via Unsplash

An archaeological site in Egypt, originally from the Greco-Roman period and later utilized during World War II, has been unearthed. This site provides a fascinating look into its historical significance and varied uses over time. | Published Dec. 13 | Read More |

‘Lost’ music discovered in 500-year-old book in Scotland. Now, you can hear the song

The University of Edinburgh

A 500-year-old book in Scotland has revealed “lost” music, allowing people today to listen to melodies that have not been heard for centuries. This discovery brings to life the sounds of the past, connecting us to the musical heritage of that era. | Published Dec. 19 | Read More |

McClatchy News continues to follow the discovery of the most intriguing archaeological discoveries from around the globe. Check back to see the latest finds.

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This story was originally published December 20, 2024 at 12:55 PM with the headline "Floors made of bone and ancient crime scenes — take a look at these recent discoveries."

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