Flying Saucer Replica Found in Ancient Temple
The discovery of a stone seal in an ancient temple on the Isle of Cyprus in 1950 sparks a compelling discussion about the history of unidentified flying objects. The seal, featuring a design reminiscent of a “flying saucer,” invites speculation on whether such phenomena were recognized and recorded by ancient civilizations or if a UFO vehicle was left behind.
On December 1, 1950, The Los Angeles Times reported on a fascinating discovery made by British archaeologists on the Isle of Cyprus. The team unearthed a ruined temple and within it discovered a small stone seal. The original article was titled “Flying Saucer Replica Found in Ancient Temple” and it captured the public’s imagination with its report of a remarkable archaeological discovery.
In archaeological contexts, stone seals are often discovered in ancient sites and can provide valuable information about the culture, beliefs, and practices of the people who created them. The specific design or inscription on the seal can vary widely and may include symbols, images, or writing that convey meaning to those who would have used or encountered it.
The Isle of Cyprus, also known simply as Cyprus, is an island country located in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea. It is the third-largest and third-most populous island in the Mediterranean, with a rich history dating back thousands of years. Cyprus has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with evidence of human activity dating back to the Neolithic period. Throughout its history, the island has been ruled by various civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, and Ottomans. In 1878, Cyprus was placed under British administration and remained a British colony until it gained independence in 1960.
Today, Cyprus is a member of the European Union and is divided into the Republic of Cyprus in the south and the self-declared Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus in the north. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, and archaeological sites.
Expedition leader Jean du Piatt revealed that one of the seals bore the replica of what was unmistakably a winged disk, resembling a flying saucer. This intriguing find suggests that the concept of flying saucers may not be exclusive to modern times, as the seal dates back approximately 3000 years. This revelation sheds new light on ancient civilizations and their potential interpretations of celestial phenomena.
The original article appeared on December 1, 1950 printed in The Los Angeles Times appears to have a typographical error in the name provided. The correct name seems to be Joan du Plat Taylor, not Jean du Piatt. Joan Mabel Frederica du Plat Taylor (1906-1983) was a pioneering British archaeologist, notable for her contributions to the field of underwater nautical archaeology. She was born in Glasgow, Scotland, and developed a career that included working on many significant excavations. She also played a crucial role in promoting the field of marine archaeology and was instrumental in persuading other archaeologists of its importance, encouraging them to dive and ensuring that their findings were published.
Some of the most well-known archaeological sites in Cyprus include:
- Kourion: Located on the southern coast of Cyprus near the city of Limassol, Kourion is an ancient city with remains dating back to the Neolithic period. Highlights of the site include a well-preserved Greco-Roman theater, a Roman agora, early Christian basilicas, and elaborate mosaics.
- Paphos Archaeological Park: Situated near the modern city of Paphos, this UNESCO World Heritage Site contains a wealth of ancient ruins dating from the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods. Notable attractions include the House of Dionysus with its stunning mosaic floors, the Tombs of the Kings, and the Odeon amphitheater.
- Choirokoitia: This Neolithic settlement is one of the most important prehistoric sites on the island and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the Larnaca District, Choirokoitia features well-preserved circular dwellings, defensive walls, and other structures dating back over 9,000 years.
- Salamis: Situated on the eastern coast of Cyprus near Famagusta, Salamis was an ancient Greek city-state founded in the 11th century BCE. The site contains extensive ruins, including a gymnasium, baths, a theater, and a necropolis, providing valuable insights into ancient Greek and Roman civilization.
- Tombs of the Kings: Located near Paphos, this impressive archaeological site features a series of underground tombs dating from the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Despite its name, the tombs were not actually the final resting places of royalty but rather wealthy individuals and officials.
These are just a few examples of the many archaeological sites scattered throughout Cyprus. Each site offers a unique glimpse into the island’s past and contributes to our understanding of its diverse history and cultural heritage.
The discovery by Joan du Plat Taylor and her team of a stone seal depicting a winged disk within the ruins of Cyprus casts a mysterious aura over the historical record of aerial phenomena. The artifact’s striking similarity to contemporary “flying saucer” representations tantalizes the imagination, positing that our ancestors may have witnessed or even interacted with these phenomena in a tangible way. As the details of this discovery have faded from the public eye, one is left to wonder about the full extent of what was uncovered in that ancient temple.
