Daily Current Affairs : 24-November-2023

In the lush landscapes of West Java, Indonesia, a colossal megalithic structure named Gunung Padang has emerged as a captivating archaeological mystery. Recent research has ignited global interest as it suggests that this ancient site could surpass the age of Egypt’s renowned pyramids and even predates Türkiye’s Göbekli Tepe. Let’s delve into the key details of this groundbreaking discovery.

Key Details
  1. Location and SignificanceNestled atop an extinct volcano, Gunung Padang, colloquially known as the “mountain of enlightenment,” holds a sacred status among locals. Designated a national cultural heritage site in 1998, this enigmatic structure has been a subject of fascination for its sheer magnitude and historical importance.
  2. Archaeological FindingsA team of archaeologists has unearthed compelling evidence, positioning Gunung Padang as the oldest known pyramid globally. The structure’s origin traces back at least 16,000 years when it likely started as a natural lava hill. Over time, it underwent a transformation, sculpted by human hands, evolving into a monumental pyramid. The final touches occurred between 2,000 BC and 1,100 BC, according to the latest study.
More about the Site
  1. Architectural MarvelGunung Padang spans a hill with a series of five terraces, forming a captivating ascent accessed by 370 andesite steps. The retaining walls, composed of stone, delineate these terraces. The site’s architectural grandeur is enhanced by massive hexagonal stone columns, a testament to its volcanic origins.
  2. Sundanese ReverenceRevered by the Sundanese people, Gunung Padang holds profound cultural significance. Its five artificial terraces, meticulously crafted, include one rectangular and four trapezoidal platforms. These were created through a process of lowering high spots and filling in low areas, culminating in a flat surface that adds to the mystique of this ancient marvel.
Important Points:
  • Gunung Padang Discovery
    • Colossal megalithic structure in West Java, Indonesia.
    • Recent research suggests it predates Egypt’s pyramids and Göbekli Tepe.
    • Archaeologists identify Gunung Padang as the world’s oldest known pyramid.
  • Key Details
    • Located atop an extinct volcano, known as the “mountain of enlightenment.”
    • Declared a national cultural heritage site in 1998.
    • Evidence suggests Gunung Padang originated as a natural lava hill at least 16,000 years ago.
    • Pyramid construction completed between 2,000 BC and 1,100 BC.
  • Archaeological Findings
    • Unearthed evidence supports Gunung Padang’s status as the oldest pyramid globally.
    • Evolution from a natural lava hill to a sculpted pyramid by human hands.
    • Monumental structure challenges conventional timelines of ancient civilizations.
  • More about the Site
    • Architectural Marvel:
      • Spans a hill with five terraces, accessed by 370 andesite steps.
      • Retaining walls and hexagonal stone columns enhance its grandeur.
    • Sundanese Reverence:
      • Held sacred by the Sundanese people.
      • Five artificial terraces, including one rectangular and four trapezoidal platforms.
      • Crafted through a process of lowering high spots and filling in low areas.
  • Cultural Significance
    • Revered by locals and Sundanese people.
    • Reflects profound cultural and historical importance.
    • Ongoing exploration promises to reshape historical narratives.
Why In News

New evidence suggests Indonesia’s Gunung Padang could be the world’s oldest known pyramid, challenging previous archaeological assumptions and prompting a reevaluation of ancient civilizations.

MCQs about Gunung Padang

  1. What is the significance of Gunung Padang, recently in the news?
    A. It’s a modern architectural marvel in Indonesia.
    B. It’s an ancient pyramid, potentially the world’s oldest.
    C. It’s a national park in West Java.
    D. It’s a recent archaeological discovery in Egypt.
    Correct Answer: B. It’s an ancient pyramid, potentially the world’s oldest.
    Explanation: Gunung Padang is identified as an ancient pyramid and is considered the world’s oldest based on recent archaeological findings.
  2. Where is Gunung Padang located?
    A. Egypt
    B. West Java, Indonesia
    C. Türkiye
    D. Göbekli Tepe
    Correct Answer: B. West Java, Indonesia
    Explanation: Gunung Padang is located in West Java, Indonesia.
  3. What evidence supports Gunung Padang’s status as the oldest pyramid globally?
    A. Modern construction techniques
    B. Archaeological findings suggesting human sculpting
    C. Hexagonal stone columns
    D. Geological formations
    Correct Answer: B. Archaeological findings suggesting human sculpting
    Explanation: Archaeological evidence indicates that Gunung Padang was initially a natural lava hill, sculpted by human hands to form a pyramid.
  4. What is the cultural significance of Gunung Padang?
    A. It’s a site with no cultural importance.
    B. Sundanese people consider it sacred.
    C. It’s revered only by the locals.
    D. It holds significance only for archaeologists.
    Correct Answer: B. Sundanese people consider it sacred.
    Explanation: Gunung Padang is revered by the Sundanese people, adding to its cultural and historical importance.

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