Archaeologists discovered a 5500-year-old ritual complex in Jordan

Ancient Ritual Complex Discovered in the Jordanian Desert: Archaeologists Unveil Secrets of 5,000-Year-Old Structures

A massive ritual complex, approximately five millennia old, was discovered by an international expedition of archaeologists from the University of Copenhagen in the southern part of the Jordanian desert, reports TUT.AZ with reference to Good News Network. According to scientists, this grand structure was built by a society experiencing a profound crisis and served as a means of uniting ancient people in the face of environmental and social catastrophes.

During the excavations, specialists discovered over 95 dolmens (burial structures), vertically installed stones, and megalithic constructions. The analysis conducted convincingly proved that the complex was not intended for everyday living – the structures had neither roofs nor hearths, which made it impossible to use them as dwellings in the harsh desert conditions.

Scientists have established that the complex was built after the decline of the Chalcolithic culture (4500-3500 BC), which was famous for copper products and rich symbolism. The collected archaeological and ecological data indicate the onset of an arid climatic period, which led to the destruction of trade routes and the disappearance of traditional craft practices.

The discovered complex most likely served as a gathering place for scattered population groups, who assembled here to conduct rituals related to concepts of the afterlife, as well as for other collective ceremonies.