Archaeologists have made a groundbreaking discovery in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Ohrid, unearthing what appears to be Europe's oldest lakeside settlement dating back an astonishing 8,000 years.
A Neolithic Time Capsule
The remarkable find consists of wooden stilts that once supported entire villages built over the Albanian side of the lake. These perfectly preserved structures offer an unprecedented window into Neolithic life during 6000-5800 BC.
Professor Albert Hafner, lead researcher from the University of Bern, describes the site as "exceptionally significant" due to its extraordinary preservation in the oxygen-depleted lake sediment.
Rewriting European History
The discovery challenges previous assumptions about early European settlements:
- Predates similar Alpine lake dwellings by 2,000 years
- Reveals sophisticated construction techniques
- Contains well-preserved organic materials rarely found elsewhere
Divers have recovered numerous artifacts including:
- Intricately carved wooden tools
- Early agricultural implements
- Evidence of domesticated animals
Why Lake Ohrid?
This ancient lake's unique conditions created a perfect archaeological preservation environment:
"The low oxygen levels at depth have essentially frozen these structures in time," explains Albanian archaeologist Adrian Anastasi.
The international research team used cutting-edge underwater archaeology techniques to document the site without disturbing its delicate ecosystem.
Future Discoveries
Scientists believe this is just the beginning, with potentially hundreds more ancient structures waiting to be discovered beneath Lake Ohrid's surface. The findings will be featured in an upcoming documentary about Europe's prehistoric past.
