A previously overlooked stone bearing enigmatic inscriptions, which remained relatively unexamined for over 4,000 years, has now emerged as a valuable “treasure map” for archaeologists.

These experts are utilizing it to uncover ancient sites scattered throughout northwestern France.

This stone, known as the Saint-Belec slab, was unearthed at a burial site and, in 2021, acclaimed as Europe’s most ancient known map by researchers.

Since then, a dedicated team has been diligently engaged in deciphering its intricate markings, Yahoo News reported.

Their efforts serve a dual purpose: first, to aid in accurately dating the slab, and second, to rediscover long-forgotten monuments and archaeological treasures.

“Using the map to try to find archaeological sites is a great approach. We never work like that,” said Yvan Pailler, a professor at the University of Western Brittany. “It’s a treasure map.”

Typically, ancient sites are more frequently brought to light through the use of advanced radar equipment, aerial photography, or serendipitous discoveries while excavating foundations for new urban structures. However, the team’s quest for historical treasures is still in its early stages.

Pailler has played key roles in the team that rekindled the discovery of the slab in 2014. Initially, this remarkable artifact was unearthed in 1900 by a local historian who failed to grasp its true importance.

At the time, relocating the hefty slab from the mound, where it had been employed as part of a massive burial chest wall, necessitated the assistance of more than a dozen laborers, as documented by the National Archeology Museum. Since 1924, this invaluable artifact has been preserved within the museum’s collections.

Written by staff