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What ancient cities were discovered recently?
Recent discoveries include the ancient city of Valeriana in Campeche, Mexico, which is believed to be a Classic Maya political capital. Additionally, two medieval cities, Tugunbulak and Tashbulak, were uncovered in Uzbekistan's Tien Shan mountains. These findings reveal a complex urban landscape that was previously unrecognized.
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How do these findings change our understanding of trade routes?
The discoveries in Uzbekistan suggest that Tugunbulak and Tashbulak were significant centers of commerce and culture, challenging the notion that high-altitude cities were merely peripheral settlements. This indicates that trade routes may have been more extensive and interconnected than previously thought.
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What archaeological techniques were used in these discoveries?
Archaeologists utilized advanced Lidar technology, which allows for the mapping of structures hidden beneath dense vegetation. This technique has been instrumental in uncovering nearly 6,700 structures in the Valeriana complex, revealing the density of the population in ancient times.
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What can we learn about ancient civilizations from these sites?
These discoveries provide insights into the political, economic, and social structures of ancient civilizations. The findings in Campeche suggest a sophisticated urban planning system, while the cities in Uzbekistan highlight the importance of high-altitude settlements in trade and culture.
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Why is Lidar technology important for archaeology?
Lidar technology is crucial for modern archaeology as it allows researchers to visualize and map areas that are otherwise inaccessible due to dense vegetation. This has led to significant discoveries in regions previously thought to be less populated, transforming our understanding of ancient urbanization.