Researchers have uncovered over 1,300 archaeological sites in Azerbaijan, revealing the Caucasus as a historical hub of cultural exchange
The Caucasus Mountains, long seen as a formidable natural barrier, have proven to be a historical hub of cultural exchange. Stretching over 1,000 kilometers between the Black and Caspian Seas, this region’s archaeological significance has often been underexplored. However, researchers from Kiel University’s ROOTS Cluster of Excellence, in collaboration with the Academy of Sciences of Azerbaijan, have changed that narrative.
In two field campaigns conducted in 2021 and 2023, the team documented more than 1,300 archaeological sites across Azerbaijan, including over 1,200 burial mounds—known as kurgans—on the Uzun-Rama plateau. The results of these efforts, published in the journal Antiquity, reveal a rich tapestry of burial practices, spanning from the 4th millennium BCE to the Middle Ages.
Using advanced methods like satellite imagery, ground-penetrating radar, and 3D landscape modeling, the researchers mapped the structures with unprecedented precision. These findings not only offer insights into ancient burial cultures but also highlight the interaction between humans and their environment over millennia.
“You can only protect what you know,” says Andrea Ricci, the project lead. This research is a crucial step toward preserving the cultural heritage of the South Caucasus for future generations.
A rare red meat allergy known as alpha-gal syndrome is drawing new attention as researchers link it not only to the lone star tick but also to other U.S. tick species, raising concerns about growing risks and underdiagnosis.
In a groundbreaking study published in Cell on January 18, Chinese researchers have unveiled a novel cancer treatment that ingeniously disguises tumors as pig tissue, triggering the body’s immune system to mount a hyperacute rejection response against the cancer cells.
NASA has launched two missions to explore the universe’s origins and the Sun’s outer atmosphere. The SPHEREx observatory and PUNCH satellite constellation will map the cosmos and study solar wind, helping scientists understand cosmic evolution and improve space weather forecasts.
Italy’s League party urges the government to favour Starlink over French-led Eutelsat for satellite communication systems, citing Starlink's technological edge. The push comes amid delays in the EU’s IRIS² program, as Italy seeks secure communication solutions for officials.
Scientists understand a lot about the universe, from its age to the formation of galaxies. But two of the biggest mysteries—dark matter and dark energy—remain unsolved. These unknown forces shape the cosmos, yet their true nature is still a puzzle. (By: Paul M. Sutter)
The global movement against sex trafficking has lost a key voice, as Virginia Giuffre, a prominent figure in exposing Jeffrey Epstein’s crimes, has died in Australia at the age of 41.
After weeks of no new infections, Uganda has officially brought its latest battle against the deadly ebola virus to a close, authorities announced on Saturday.
China and Kazakhstan have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their permanent comprehensive strategic partnership, pledging to boost cooperation across key sectors during the second China-Kazakhstan Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue in Beijing.
Thousands of mourners and dozens of world leaders are attending the funeral of Pope Francis at St. Peter’s Basilica, following his death at age 88.
North Korea has launched a new 5,000-tonne destroyer as part of Kim Jong Un’s plans to expand the country’s naval power far beyond its coastal waters.
China has rolled out the world’s first 10-gigabit (10G) fixed broadband network in Xiong'an New Area, promising ultra-fast speeds and low latency through cutting-edge optical infrastructure.
The Holy Fire ceremony stands as one of Christianity's most enduring and mysterious rituals, drawing thousands of pilgrims to Jerusalem each year.
Pope Francis's relationship with Azerbaijan has evolved significantly over the years, characterized by diplomatic exchanges, promotion of religious tolerance, and peace advocacy in the Caucasus region.
Russia launched a major missile and drone assault on Kyiv overnight on April 24, killing at least twelve people and injuring 90, including children and a pregnant woman, according to Mayor Vitali Klitschko.
China’s pivot away from U.S. liquefied petroleum gas under new tariffs is shaking global energy flows, slashing demand, and fuelling a scramble for alternatives across Asia, with Middle Eastern suppliers and rival buyers seizing the moment.
On April 25, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev met with OSCE Secretary General Feridun Sinirlioğlu to discuss the South Caucasus, peace talks with Armenia, and strengthening bilateral cooperation. Aliyev emphasized dismantling the OSCE Minsk Group and securing Azerbaijan’s sovereignty.
Russia and Iran have signaled their commitment to deepen energy cooperation by working on new overland gas corridors, according to a statement from the Russian Cabinet.
Citing sustained cross-border terrorism and a recent deadly attack in Jammu and Kashmir, India has decided to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan, a decision that marks a significant shift in regional water diplomacy.
The 17th Summit of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) is set to be held in Khankendi, Azerbaijan, said Rovshan Mirzayev, Deputy Head of the Economic Cooperation Department of Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Israel warned on Thursday it will unleash an even wider offensive in Gaza unless Hamas frees its remaining hostages, a threat issued as Israeli airstrikes killed at least 55 people across the enclave, according to local medics.
The global movement against sex trafficking has lost a key voice, as Virginia Giuffre, a prominent figure in exposing Jeffrey Epstein’s crimes, has died in Australia at the age of 41.
After weeks of no new infections, Uganda has officially brought its latest battle against the deadly ebola virus to a close, authorities announced on Saturday.
China and Kazakhstan have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their permanent comprehensive strategic partnership, pledging to boost cooperation across key sectors during the second China-Kazakhstan Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue in Beijing.
Thousands of mourners and dozens of world leaders are attending the funeral of Pope Francis at St. Peter’s Basilica, following his death at age 88.
North Korea has launched a new 5,000-tonne destroyer as part of Kim Jong Un’s plans to expand the country’s naval power far beyond its coastal waters.
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