Famous artifacts of ancient civilisations

Artifacts from ancient civilisations provide invaluable insights into the cultural, political, and spiritual lives of early societies. These relics stand as testaments to human ingenuity, artistry, and the quest for meaning in the past. Below are some well-known artifacts that continue to captivate the world:

The Rosetta Stone (Egypt)

Discovered in 1799, the Rosetta Stone was key to deciphering Egyptian hieroglyphs. Inscribed in three scripts—Greek, Demotic, and hieroglyphs—it dates back to 196 BCE during the Ptolemaic period. The artifact represents a decree issued in Memphis, Egypt, and is now housed in the British Museum.

The Terracotta Army (China)

The Terracotta Army, unearthed in Xi’an in 1974, is a massive collection of life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots built to accompany China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, into the afterlife. Dating back to 210–209 BCE, this intricate army demonstrates the sophistication of ancient Chinese craftsmanship and military organisation.

The Mask of Tutankhamun (Egypt)

This iconic gold funerary mask was found in the tomb of Pharaoh Tutankhamun in 1922. Crafted around 1323 BCE, it is inlaid with semi-precious stones and glass, reflecting the opulence of ancient Egyptian art and their belief in the afterlife.

The Code of Hammurabi (Mesopotamia)

Dating to approximately 1754 BCE, the Code of Hammurabi is one of the earliest known legal codes. Inscribed on a basalt stele, it outlines laws and their consequences, demonstrating the governance system in Babylon under King Hammurabi.

The Parthenon Marbles (Greece)

Also known as the Elgin Marbles, these intricate sculptures once adorned the Parthenon in Athens, created in the 5th century BCE. They depict scenes of Greek mythology and the Panathenaic procession, showcasing the artistic and cultural achievements of ancient Greece.

The Olmec Colossal Heads (Mesoamerica)

Carved between 1400 and 400 BCE, these massive basalt sculptures represent the rulers of the Olmec civilisation, one of the earliest in Mesoamerica. Their detailed features and sheer sise highlight the skill and social organisation of the Olmec people.

These artifacts, preserved through millennia, are more than relics of history — they are windows into the lives, beliefs, and innovations of ancient civilisations, connecting us to our shared human heritage.