Ancient Calendar May Document Long-Ago Disaster

• A researcher at the University of Edinburgh, Martin Sweatman, has discovered what he believes is the earliest calendar of its kind at Gobekli Tepe in southern Turkey.
• The V-shaped markings on the lunisolar calendar at Gobekli Tepe may record a major astronomical event when comet fragments struck Earth around 10,850 B.C.
• Dr. Sweatman’s research suggests that the intricate carvings on the pillars document the date of the comet strike, which led to a 1,200-year ice age and significant changes in human lifestyle and agriculture.
• Despite some skepticism from other archaeologists, Dr. Sweatman’s recent findings align with his previous research linking the site to astronomical observations.
• The discovery of the lunisolar calendar and its interpretation as a record of the comet strike provides new insights into the advanced observational skills of ancient humans.

Source: NYT