Archaeologists have discovered an extraordinary antiques in northern Spain – an ancient fossil of a sea soldier for more than 400 million years, turned into a talisman. This is the first case known when a triloby – an extinct marine animal – is used consciously as a personal charm in the Roman Empire. Research is published in the magazine Archeology and anthropology.
This discovery was performed in the archaeological site of A Cibdá de Armea in Galicia, next to the modern city of Allaris. The fossil belongs to Colpocoryphe – this is a type of trilobites that have extinct joints. Antiques began from the first century of the first century, meaning the golden age of the Roman Empire.
Trilobites are extinct marine creatures similar to the major polls living in the oceans more than 400 million years ago, long before the dinosaurs appeared. Their skeletons are easily petrified, so they are often found in the form of fossils. In ancient times, people can find such fossils and attach special meanings to them, not understand their scientific origin.
Objects turn out not only a Viking stone with an interesting shape, but also handled in an intentional manner: at the bottom, seven characteristic scratches can be visible, thought to be Mounts to wear on clothes or body. This indicates that Triloby is used as a talisman or suspension.
This is not only a curiosity-this is a strong example of how ancient people connect the importance to the trace of the deep earth.
Fossils come from afar
A getting analysis shows that fossils do not occur from local varieties, but from the Spanish center (formed Toledan or Ibor), more than 430 km from the excavation area. This means that Trilobit is specially brought – maybe within a trade framework or as a personal treasure of the owner.
Scientists believe that the value of antiques is not only aesthetic, but also a spirit. In the ancient world, abnormal natural objects are often considered a sign of gods or amulets. Inflammation Trilob with its alien form can also symbolize the strength, protection or connection with the ancient forces of nature.
The uniqueness of findings
Around the world, archaeologists only found 11 trilobites in the historical context – from ancient biology to the Viking period. But this Spanish Trilobit was the first time found in the context of Roman culture with manual handling was confirmed and used as a personal topic.
Until now, Roman fossils have been linked to large bones – for example, ivory mammoth, displayed in temples and villas. This case shows the interest in the forms of ancient life is more diverse and personal than before.