From theater of the Romans to weapons from era of Genghis Khan: See latest finds (2025)

The summaries below were drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All linked stories were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.

Throughout history, cultures have left behind a trail of breadcrumbs for archaeologists to follow. New sites and artifacts are found all the time, revealing forgotten secrets of the past.

Here are some of the latest discoveries:

3,000-year-old necropolis found for first time in Abu Dhabi. See ‘mystery’ site

In the Al Ain region of Abu Dhabi, archaeologists have uncovered a 3,000-year-old necropolis, marking the first major Iron Age cemetery found in the area. This discovery includes over 100 burials, some with ancient grave goods, offering new insights into Iron Age burial traditions in the United Arab Emirates. The find promises to transform the understanding of the ancient Emirates and their burial customs. | Published April 22 | Read More |

Volunteers find ancient Mayan pottery in an extensive cave system in Mexico

In Mexico, ancient Mayan pottery was discovered in the Zumpango Cave near Playa del Carmen by volunteers from the Cenotes Urbanos organization. The pot, estimated to be between 575 and 825 years old, was found mostly intact with a painted black geometric motif. This discovery adds to the understanding of Mayan civilization during the Late Postclassic period. | Published April 23 | Read More |

‘Rare’ ancient chariot wheel found at golf course in Scotland. ‘Jaws dropped’

Archaeologists in northern Scotland unearthed a rare ancient chariot wheel at the site of a future golf course near Inverness. The wheel, likely dating to the Iron Age, was part of a burial offering, suggesting the importance of the individual buried there. This find is a first-of-its-kind discovery in Highland Scotland, shedding light on ancient burial practices. | Published April 23 | Read More |

Armor-piercing arrows — from Genghis Khan era — found hidden in museum. See them

In Russia, armor-piercing arrows from the era of Genghis Khan were rediscovered in a museum after being unearthed 60 years ago near Yeniseisk. These rare weapons, dating back to the 13th or 14th centuries, were part of a cremation burial and provide insight into the military practices of the Mongol Empire. The discovery highlights the historical significance of the Krasnoyarsk region during the Mongol Empire’s expansion. | Published April 23 | Read More |

Metal detectorist finds huge coin hoard — at least 1,500 years old — in Romania

In Letca Nouă, Romania, a metal detectorist discovered a hoard of 1,469 ancient Roman silver coins, dating back to the Roman Imperial Period. The coins, featuring the faces of 11 Roman emperors and empresses, were likely owned by a wealthy individual. This remarkable find offers a glimpse into the wealth and history of the Roman Empire. | Published April 24 | Read More |

Ancient Roman theater sat unnoticed under Croatia city hall — until earthquake

An ancient Roman theater was discovered beneath the city hall in Sisak, Croatia, following a 6.4-magnitude earthquake. The ruins, identified as an odeon, include a podium, orchestra and semi-circular stone rows, providing a new glimpse into the ancient Roman city of Siscia. This find highlights the historical significance of Sisak as a cultural hub in the Roman Empire. | Published April 25 | Read More |

McClatchy News continues to follow the discovery of intriguing archaeological discoveries from around the globe. Check back to see the latest finds.