ARCHAEOLOGICAL DISAGREEMENTS

RUNAMO

Runamo is a cracked dike located in Sweden with an alleged

runic inscription on its side that gave rise to several debates in

recent times centring around whether or not the cracks are actual

writing, or whether they are simply the result of natural wear and tear.

NAZCA LINES

These famous geoglyphs have almost become synonymous with

Peru. The controversy here does not really concern the “how” of

their construction but rather the “why”. The debate continues today.

WHITE SHAMAN ROCK

Found in Texas, this 7 metre tall painting has led to much speculation

and debate as to its purpose and meaning. Theories include

everything from pre-battle rituals to ancient religious ceremonies.

TÃRTÃRIA TABLETS

Three tablets discovered in Romania in 1961 have been the source

of considerable controversy among archaeologists especially with

regards to their age and meaning. More specifically, whether or not

they represent the earliest form of writing on record.

THE DEATH OF ALEXANDER THE GREAT

While most experts agree his death took place on June 10 323 BC

at Nebuchadnezzar II’s palace in Babylon, the exact way that he

died has been a source of heated debate.

THE MINARET OF JAM

A remarkably well preserved minaret in Afghanistan, its exact date of

construction and purpose have been a source of debate among

scholars. Although there is an inscription on its side that

allegedly includes this information it cannot be read with certainty.

THE PARACAS CANDELABRA

Although the Nazca Lines are arguably more famous, the Paracas

Candelabra, another nearby geoglyph has left archaeologists just

as baffled. While some argue that it had religious significance,

others have pointed out the fact that since it was carved into the

side of a hill it can be seen from up to 20km out to sea and

possibly had value as a sort of landmark to sailors.

THE UFFINGTON WHITE HORSE

Found in England, this prehistoric hill figure was shaped out of deep

cut trenches that were filled with white chalk. It has long been

debated, however, whether the figure was even supposed to

represent a horse. The date of its construction has led to

further debates as well.