Great Discoveries: Ancient Dagger Found in an Italian Cave – WorthPoint

Archaeologists have unearthed a 4,000-year-old copper dagger as part of an excavation, according to Live Science. The leaf-shaped dagger could provide archaeologists with insights into European technological, cultural, and social transformations from thousands of years ago.

The dagger was found in a cave in the Italian region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia. Archaeologist Federico Bernardini said the discovery was “unforgettable” and “completely unexpected in this context. “As we carefully removed the final layers of soil, a flash of copper caught our attention,” Bernardini noted.

According to archaeologists, the cave where the dagger was discovered was used for burials, which were common 4,000 to 4,500 years ago. However, Bernardini indicated that the discovery was surprising because daggers and similar items are usually found at places of worship. “The discovery of the copper dagger is an exceptional event that raises questions about the cave’s use,” Bernardini told Sci. News.

The dagger was one of many artifacts found inside the cave. Archeologists said they anticipate these artifacts will provide insights into who occupied the cave and the technological skills of these individuals.

Archaeologists discovered a dagger and a fireplace that may predate a stone structure at the cave’s entrance. According to Bernardini, this finding suggests that Bronze Age people might have entered the cave and utilized the fireplace.

The Bronze Age took place between 2,000 and 700 BC. During this period, daggers and other items constructed of stone were increasingly replaced by bronze, which was made by melting tin and copper and combining them.

Those who want to view other Bronze Age artifacts can see over 200 items in the WorthPoint Price Guide.

Dan Kobialka is a self-employed content writer and editor with about a decade of experience. He produces content across a wide range of industries, including antiques, insurance, and real estate. To learn more about Dan, please visit his website. 

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