Hidden in the hills of North Macedonia lies one of the world’s oldest astronomical observatories – Kokino. Built over 3,800 years ago, this ancient megalithic site has long been shrouded in mystery, with its purpose and significance remaining largely unknown. But recent research and excavation efforts have begun to uncover the secrets of Kokino, shedding light on the fascinating history and technology of this ancient marvel.
Discovered in 2001 by archaeologist Jovica Stankovski, Kokino has since been recognized as one of the most important archaeological sites in Europe. The site consists of stone circles, platforms, and markers, all carefully arranged to align with the movements of the sun, moon, and stars. This intricate system of structures suggests that Kokino was used as an observatory for tracking celestial events and harvesting astronomical knowledge.
One of the most striking features of Kokino is its “thrones,” stone seats carved into the rock that are thought to have been used by ancient astronomers to observe the sky. These thrones are positioned in such a way that they align with the rising sun on the summer and winter solstices, as well as the equinoxes. This precise alignment suggests a sophisticated understanding of astronomy and a keen interest in tracking the movements of the celestial bodies.
Further evidence of the astronomical significance of Kokino comes from the discovery of an ancient inscription, known as the “Kokino inscription.” Dating back to the late Bronze Age, this inscription contains a calendar system, with markings representing the days of the year and their corresponding astronomical events. This finding has provided valuable insight into the way ancient civilizations understood and recorded the passage of time.
Excavations at Kokino have also revealed a series of fire pits and pit alignments, which are believed to have been used for conducting rituals and ceremonies related to astronomical observations. These discoveries suggest that Kokino was not only a scientific observatory but also a sacred site imbued with spiritual significance.
As researchers continue to uncover the secrets of Kokino, new questions and theories emerge about the purpose and function of this ancient megalithic observatory. Some speculate that Kokino may have served as a center for religious worship, while others believe it was used for agricultural planning or navigation. Whatever its original purpose, Kokino stands as a testament to the ingenuity and knowledge of our ancient ancestors.
Today, Kokino is a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracting visitors from around the world who come to marvel at its ancient stone structures and stunning panoramic views. The ongoing research and excavation efforts at Kokino promise to unravel more mysteries and deepen our understanding of this remarkable archaeological treasure. As we uncover the secrets of Kokino, we gain valuable insights into the ancient civilizations that built it and the ways in which they interacted with the cosmos.