Nestled in the mountains of western Macedonia, near the town of Kumanovo, lies an ancient archaeological site that has long been shrouded in mystery. Known as Kokino, this megalithic observatory dates back to the Bronze Age, around 1800 BCE, making it one of the oldest observatories in the world.

Discovered in 2001 by archaeologist Jovica Stankovski, Kokino has since been the subject of extensive research and excavation, revealing a complex system of stone markers and platforms that were used for tracking the movements of the sun, moon, and stars. The site is believed to have been a sacred place for the ancient inhabitants of the region, who used it for religious ceremonies, agricultural planning, and possibly even astronomy.

One of the most striking features of Kokino is its stone thrones, which are carved directly into the rock and are thought to have been used for observing celestial events. The thrones are oriented in specific directions to align with the rising and setting of the sun on the summer and winter solstices, as well as the equinoxes. This suggests that the ancient people who built Kokino had a sophisticated understanding of astronomy and were able to accurately track the movements of heavenly bodies.

Another fascinating aspect of Kokino is its system of stone markers, which are arranged in circular patterns and are thought to have been used for tracking the movement of the moon. These markers correspond to the phases of the moon and were likely used to calculate lunar cycles, which would have been crucial for agricultural planning and religious rituals.

In recent years, researchers have used modern technology such as satellite imagery and 3D modeling to further study and analyze the complex layout of Kokino. These studies have revealed that the site is much larger and more intricate than previously thought, with multiple levels and structures that were likely used for different purposes.

Despite all this research, many questions about Kokino remain unanswered. How were the ancient builders able to construct such a sophisticated observatory without the aid of modern technology? What was the significance of the site to the people who used it? And how did they incorporate their astronomical knowledge into their daily lives?

As archaeologists continue to unlock the secrets of Kokino, it is clear that this ancient observatory holds valuable insights into the beliefs, practices, and technological capabilities of a civilization that existed more than 3,000 years ago. By studying this remarkable site, we are able to gain a deeper understanding of the ways in which ancient peoples interacted with the natural world and the heavens above.