2007/10/29

Layers of mystery -
Archaeologists look to the earth for Minoan fate




SHREWSBURY— They created extraordinary artifacts for hundreds of years, revealing an aesthetic sensibility that influences Western civilization to this day. Then they simply disappeared.

Scholars are seeking answers to one of the great mysteries of the ancient world: What happened to the Minoans of Crete, who controlled a thriving Mediterranean trade network from around 2,200-1,450 BC?




By Judy Powell Correspondent

2007/10/11

Post-dig pace to quicken




The National Constitution Center and Independence National Historical Park are close to a new agreement to complete the archaeological work precipitated by excavation on the center's building site more than six years ago.

Widely viewed as the most significant dig in Philadelphia's history, excavation of the center's Independence Mall site in 2000 and 2001 yielded a million artifacts and exposed a largely pristine pre-19th-century neighborhood, including an unusual concentration of households composed of free black families.


Artifacts, like this earthenware, uncovered at the Constitution Center site, is processed at a public archaeology lab.

More on this at:
The National Constitution Center and Independence National Historical Park