What's Happening?
A prehistoric fortress has been uncovered in the Papuk Mountains of eastern Croatia, thanks to the illegal sale of silver coins on the black market. These coins, dating back to the La Tène period of the late Iron Age, led archaeologists to the Gradina
site, revealing one of the best-preserved prehistoric settlements in the region. The fortress features complex defensive walls made from dry-stone construction, some as thick as 1.5 meters and as high as 8 meters. Despite the loss of historical context due to looting, the discovery provides significant insights into the sophisticated and organized societies of prehistoric Europe.
Why It's Important?
The discovery of the Gradina fortress offers valuable insights into prehistoric European societies, showcasing advanced construction techniques and societal organization. This find challenges previous assumptions about the capabilities of prehistoric communities in the region. However, the looting that led to the discovery also highlights the ongoing issue of illegal artifact trade, which can destroy valuable historical context. The situation underscores the need for stronger protections and regulations to preserve archaeological sites and artifacts, ensuring that historical knowledge is not lost to illicit activities.
