Archaeologists Discover 5,000-Year-Old Fortress in Romanian Forests with LiDAR Technology

In the depths of the dense forests of Romania’s Neamț region, archaeologists have uncovered the remnants of a 5000-year-old, enigmatic fortress, thanks to cutting-edge LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology. This extraordinary discovery illuminates the intricate details of this ancient structure, dating back to the transition from the Neolithic to the Bronze Age.

The Power of LiDAR: Unveiling the Forest’s Secret

LiDAR technology, a groundbreaking method that measures distances using laser pulses and creates high-resolution 3D models of terrain, has enabled researchers to map the fortress hidden beneath the dense forest cover. Vasile Diaconu, the lead archaeologist on the study, stated that the LiDAR scans provided a clear image of the approximately 5000-year-old structure, revealing details that were impossible to observe on-site due to the thick vegetation.

Traces of Defensive Architecture

Research conducted using LiDAR-equipped drones revealed that the fortress possessed impressive defensive features, such as deep ditches and towering earthen mounds. These structures significantly enhanced the fortress’s defensive capabilities, suggesting it was a strategically critical settlement. The fortress’s location on a high hill may have provided its inhabitants with a broad view of the surrounding landscape, offering an advantage in detecting approaching threats.

Technological Transformation in Archaeology

This discovery underscores the growing importance of technology in archaeology. LiDAR stands out as an invaluable tool, allowing archaeologists to map vast and inaccessible areas without disturbing the ground or remains. Vasile Diaconu emphasized the importance of these technologies, stating, “We can only better understand the complexity of archaeological sites by using modern technologies.”

The Success of a Mentor-Student Relationship

This archaeological project also holds personal significance for Vasile Diaconu. The study is the product of a fruitful collaboration between Diaconu and his former student, Vlad Dulgheriu. Dulgheriu, the owner of Geocad Services, which made the use of LiDAR technology possible, became involved in this project due to his deep interest in his mentor’s work. Diaconu expressed his well-deserved pride in his former student’s achievements.

Unveiling the Curtain of the Past

This discovery once again proves the value of modern technologies like LiDAR in archaeological research. Thanks to these technologies, it becomes possible to unravel the mysteries of the past and gain new insights into ancient civilizations.

Project Partners:

The project is successfully carried out in collaboration with Geocad Services, Geo Edu Lab, and the National Institute for Research and Development for Earth Physics.

Cover Photo: MageBROKER/Michael Runkel