Join us on an exciting journey through history as we uncover the 15 greatest treasures ever found. From ancient civilizations to lost artifacts, these discoveries have captivated the world with their historical significance and sheer value.
1. Tutankhamun’s Tomb
Discovered by Howard Carter in 1922, this tomb revealed a wealth of artifacts from ancient Egypt, including the iconic golden death mask of King Tutankhamun.
2. The Terracotta Army
Unearthed in 1974 in China, this massive collection of terracotta sculptures represents the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China.
3. The Dead Sea Scrolls
Found in the Qumran Caves between 1947 and 1956, these ancient Jewish texts provide crucial insights into the history and culture of the Second Temple period.
4. The Rosetta Stone
Discovered in 1799, this artifact was key to deciphering Egyptian hieroglyphs, opening up new understandings of ancient Egyptian civilization.
5. The Staffordshire Hoard
Unearthed in 2009, this is the largest hoard of Anglo-Saxon gold and silver metalwork ever found, providing valuable information about early medieval England.
6. Machu Picchu
This Incan city, discovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham, remains one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world, showcasing the ingenuity of Inca architecture.
7. The Amber Room
Originally constructed in the 18th century and lost during World War II, parts of this opulent room have been discovered, rekindling interest in its full recovery.
8. The Royal Library of Ashurbanipal
Discovered in the 19th century, this ancient library contained thousands of clay tablets, shedding light on the Assyrian Empire and its knowledge.
9. The Antikythera Mechanism
Found in a shipwreck in 1901, this ancient Greek device is considered the world’s first analog computer, illustrating advanced ancient technology.
10. The Pyramids of Giza
Although not a single discovery, the continuous excavation and research at the Giza pyramids have unveiled countless treasures and secrets about ancient Egypt.
11. Pompeii and Herculaneum
These Roman cities, buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, were rediscovered in the 18th century, providing an unparalleled glimpse into Roman life.
12. The Sutton Hoo Ship Burial
Discovered in 1939, this Anglo-Saxon burial site contained a wealth of artifacts, including a ship, weapons, and treasures, highlighting early medieval craftsmanship.
13. The Sphinx
While its existence was never truly lost, ongoing excavations continue to reveal new aspects of this iconic monument and its role in ancient Egyptian culture.
14. The Tomb of the First Emperor of China
The site where the Terracotta Army was found also includes the yet-to-be-excavated tomb of Qin Shi Huang, believed to hold untold treasures and historical records.
15. The Great Library of Alexandria
While largely lost to history, fragments and references to this ancient hub of knowledge continue to be discovered, piecing together its storied past.
Explore these remarkable discoveries with Ginho da Selva and delve into the rich tapestry of human history they represent. Each treasure tells a unique story, bridging the past with the present and inspiring future explorations.
