Spell It: Discover lost ancient civilisations that still puzzle archaeologists

We know of the ancient Egyptians through their pyramids, the ancient Greeks through their sculptures and ruins, and the Mayans through their temples and famous calendar. But there are several other ancient civilisations that are not as well known.

Click start to play today’s Spell It, where you can find the word “culture”.

Here are three long-lost cultures that aren’t as famous as their counterparts:

1. The Silla

Considered to be one of the longest-standing royal dynasties ever, the Silla kingdom ruled the Korean peninsula between 57BC and 935AD. However, with very few burial sites left behind, archaeologists have had a hard time learning about this culture. What they have found, however, has been a revelation – the Silla was known at the time, as a kingdom of gold. Exquisite regalia, belonging to royalty, was discovered in tombs, along with unique treasures – all crafted in gold, since the precious metal was considered to be a symbol of supreme power.

2. The Nok

The Nok culture existed between 1,000BC and 300AD in what is today, northern Nigeria. According to the US-based Metropolitan Museum of Art website, evidence of this civilisation was unearthed by accident, during a tin mining operation in 1943. Miners found a terracotta head, and since then, many more such sculptures have emerged, indicating a rich, creative community.

3. The Bell Beakers

This civilisation is so obscure, archaeologists named it based on its artifacts alone. The Bell Beaker culture is known for its pottery vessels, shaped like upside-down bells. This community lived across Europe between 2,800BC and 1,800BC. The Bell Beakers are thought to have contributed to the construction at Stonehenge in Wiltshire, England. They also left behind copper artifacts and graves in places like Czechia.

Which ancient culture appeals to you the most? Play today’s Spell It and tell us at games@gulfnews.com.