The place where European writing originated: the mystery of the tablet from Dispilio

Dispilio – one of the oldest Neolithic settlements in Europe, discovered on the shores of Lake Orestiada near Kastoria. Here they found a mysterious wooden tablet with writing 7,000 years old.

Dispiliolocated near the city Kastoria in northwestern Greece, it is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in Europe. On the southern shore of the lake Orestiada In the Nishi region, archaeologists have found thousands of objects from the Neolithic period, shedding light on the life of the ancient settlers.

Some objects of everyday life of the Neolithic era. Source: Greek Reporter

The settlement was discovered by chance in the winter of 1932, when the water level in the lake dropped and wooden piles appeared from under the silt. After a short examination by an archaeologist Antonios Keramopoulos excavations resumed only in 1992 under the leadership of professor Georgios Hourmoziadis from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki.

Prehistoric settlement in Dispilio. Photo: Greek Reporter

Excavations have revealed an extensive stilt settlement that existed from 5600 to 3000 BC. Stone and bone tools, ceramic vessels, grains, remains of dwellings and household items were found – evidence of agriculture, fishing and hunting. Of particular interest was bone flute – one of the oldest musical instruments in Europe.

Prehistoric settlement in Dispilio. Photo: Greek Reporter

The most mysterious find – wooden plaque with engraved symbolsdating back to around 5260 BC. Scientists believe it could be first form of letterpredating the Linear A writing system. Similar signs are found in the Vinca culture of the Balkans, confirming ancient contacts between the regions.

Clay huts on the shore of the lake. Photo: Greek Reporter

Today, next to the archaeological zone, a open air museum — reconstruction of the settlement with huts made of straw and clay, boats, utensils and models of ancient inhabitants. It has become a popular tourist destination where the past literally comes out of the water.

Dispilio reminds us that the roots of European civilization go back thousands of years, when people were already building, creating music and, perhaps, beginning to write history.

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