According to Georgiy Georgiev, one of the discoverers of the site, the stone with its strange carvings is a prehistoric map of the night sky. This may represent one of the earliest known attempts by humans to depict the night sky on stone. Georgiev and his colleagues believe that this finding will help reshape our understanding of ancient astronomy and the spiritual lives of early civilizations in the Balkans.
A Serendipitous Discovery
The stone depicting the night sky was uncovered by researchers Georgiy Georgiev and Ivelina Georgieva during a field expedition near an ancient Thracian necropolis.
This carved rock fragment, measuring approximately 2 by 3 meters, lies hidden deep in the forest near the village of Skobelevo (which is why scholars refer to it as the Skobelevo Map). The stone is laced with a glowing natural marble vein, which is associated with the Milky Way.
On the surface of the stone, there are 56 meticulously carved conical holes of varying diameters: 24 in the northern half and 32 in the southern half. These symbolize stars of different magnitudes, as reported by Arkeonews. The map clearly depicts several constellations, including Ursa Major and Leo. Researchers have also identified the constellations of Cassiopeia, Cygnus, Lyra, and the star cluster Pleiades on the stone.
Estimated Dating: When Was the Map Created?
Although the Skobelevo Map of the night sky has not yet been officially dated, researchers suggest it may belong to the late Neolithic to early Iron Age (around 2000–500 B.C.). This estimate is based on the proximity of the site to Thracian necropolises and burial mounds, as well as its location near similar prehistoric sanctuaries in the Balkans.
No pottery or organic materials were found directly at the excavation site, making radiocarbon or stratigraphic dating currently impossible. However, the archaeological context of the map indicates a period when ancient people actively observed celestial phenomena and recorded them for ritual and agricultural purposes.
The Sky Captured in Stone
Experts believe these carvings were not random; they reflected the daily and annual movements of celestial bodies, particularly in the Northern Hemisphere. The presence of constellations in precise configurations and scales suggests a profound understanding of astronomy by the prehistoric inhabitants of this region.
One theory posits that the stone served as a primitive star clock, helping ancient observers track time and the changing seasons.
The stone’s surface, rich in mica, creates a shimmering effect under sunlight, mimicking the night sky. This artistic effect further emphasizes the purpose of the discovery.
Cultural and Ritual Context
Archaeological evidence found nearby (necropolises, tombs, and remnants of sanctuaries) suggests that the carved stone may have been part of a larger cult complex. It could have served both as a sanctuary for rituals and as a navigational tool for travelers and seafarers.
The Skobelevo Map of the night sky, etched into stone, offers a rare glimpse into the cosmology of prehistoric Balkan communities. It is of great interest to scholars studying early astronomy, mythology, and the cultural development of humanity. Following a series of studies, this ancient artifact may be recognized as a significant milestone in the history of archaeoastronomical heritage and one of the key attractions for cultural tourism in Europe.