Amateur archaeologists from England conducted research in the Midlands, i.e. in central England. It was there that a non-professional group of Norton Disney history enthusiasts discovered a unique artifact that was almost impossible to find in the area centuries ago.
While excavating, they discovered an ancient artifact called the dodecahedron. The dodecahedron is a round copper alloy object, the size of a tangerine, characterized by a 12-sided form, with various holes and protrusions.
Its function remains unclear. Although more than 100 have been found in Europe, the Norton Disney History and Archeology Group — the organization behind the latest find — describes the dodecahedron as one of archaeology’s “great mysteries.”
According to Lorena Hitchens, a PhD student from the UK who studies all the Roman dodecahedrons in Europe, there are many unproven theories about the use of the dodecahedron as a measure, rangefinder, candlestick, dice for gambling or for knitting gloves. However, the specialist tells National Public Radio that none of these theories is supported by evidence.
“A huge amount of time, energy and skill was put into creating the dodecahedron we found, so it was not used for mundane purposes,” claims the Norton Disney group, refuting Hitchens’ thesis that the object was used for, for example, gambling.
Amateur researchers say that this item was most likely used for ritual and religious purposes.
“Roman society was full of superstitions that were observed on a daily basis. Our current working theory is a possible connection to local religious practice. However, further research is required,” reads the Norton Disney History and Archeology Group website.
What makes this latest discovery unique is that the object was found intact and in perfect condition. Most dodecahedrons have so far been discovered in pieces. Also noteworthy is the fact that it is the only specimen discovered in the central region of England, known as the Midlands.