Europe’s Oldest Lakeside Village

August 15, 2023

Archaeologists have recently unveiled what could be Europe’s oldest lakeside village, submerged beneath the waters of Lake Ohrid, also known as the “Pearl of the Balkans.” This ancient settlement, estimated to be around 8,000 years old, is located on the Albanian side of the lake and was built on stilts due to regular flooding.
Guarded by an intricate fortress of defensive spikes, the village dates back to 6,000 to 5,800 BC and housed approximately 200 to 500 inhabitants. The purpose behind the elaborate fortifications remains a mystery.
The discovery is considered a significant find for research, offering insights into the daily lives of its ancient inhabitants and providing valuable data on climatic and environmental conditions. Excavations, painstaking due to the lush vegetation, are projected to continue for another two decades.

Why is the newly discovered lakeside village in Lake Ohrid significant?

This discovery is significant because it may be Europe’s oldest lakeside village, dating back around 8,000 years. It offers a glimpse into early sedentary communities and provides insights into their lifestyle, architecture, and defensive strategies.

What were the defensive structures found in the village? Why were they needed?

The defensive measures of the village included a network of defensive structures consisting of approximately 10,000 spikes that were implanted into the bed of the lake. The exact reasons for these extensive fortifications remain a mystery, but they suggest that the community faced potential threats from external sources.

What role did Lake Ohrid’s unique environment play in preserving the ancient settlement?

The flooded nature of Lake Ohrid’s environment played a crucial role in preserving the ancient settlement. The village was constructed on stilts due to regular flooding, which ultimately allowed it to remain intact underwater and become a treasure trove for modern archaeological research.

How did the researchers determine the age of the lakeside village?

The estimated age of the lakeside village is based on archaeological evidence and radiocarbon dating of materials found at the site. The artifacts, along with scientific analysis, provide a chronological understanding of the village’s existence.

What significance does the use of oak wood have in the archaeological findings?

Oak wood fragments discovered at the site are significant because they can provide precise information about the climatic and environmental conditions during the village’s existence. The tree rings in oak act like a calendar, offering insights into historical climate patterns.

Why is the slow and meticulous excavation process necessary for studying the site?

The excavation process must be slow and meticulous to avoid damaging the delicate artifacts and structures preserved in the underwater environment. The lush vegetation surrounding the site requires careful navigation, ensuring a thorough understanding of the village’s layout and features without causing harm.

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