Weekend Editor Eric O. Scott reviews Jeffrey E. Anderson’s study of the historical evidence for the theology, organization, and ritual practices of the Voodoo religion of the Mississippi River Valley in the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries.
Conservation
Two thousand year old statue of Athena discovered in Turkey
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The Turkish Minister of Culture and Tourism announced the discovery of a statue of the goddess Athena from the Augustan period that is nearly two meters tall in the ancient city of Laodikeia.
Culture
Ancient Tablets Describe Beer, Witchcraft, and Bureaucracy
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Researchers digitizing ancient cuneiform tablets at the University of Copenhagen uncovered records ranging from beer receipts to anti-witchcraft rituals, offering new insight into how early civilizations kept tabs on spirits.
Europe
2500 year old Dacian helmet and bracelets recovered after theft from Dutch museum
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Last year thieves stole a Dacian helmet and three golden bracelets, national treasures from Romania, from a Dutch museum. Last week the accused returned most of the artifacts as part of a plea deal.
Arts & Culture
“Ancient Splendor” brings Trajan’s artifacts to the US for the first time
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Weekend Editor Eric O. Scott reviews the new exhibition at the St. Louis Art Museum, “Ancient Splendor: Roman Art in the Time of Trajan.”
Culture
A Circle of Gold and Blue: Medieval Ring May Have Been Worn for Healing and Spiritual Power
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A medieval gold ring set with a deep blue stone has been unearthed in Norway’s oldest town, revealing not only exquisite craftsmanship but long-held beliefs in sapphire’s power to heal illness, cool “inner heat,” and guard the soul.