Kev Klesi excavation and basalt sourcing. Newly uncovered pillar structure at Kev Klesi in 2023 Basalt identified 7-10 km away on flanks of Mount Supupon Different types of basalt used: coarse grain for pillars, fine grain for ball reliefs

A newly uncovered pillar structure at Kev Klesi (2023) reveals ancient builders deliberately sourced basalt 7-10 km away on Mount Supupon. Coarse-grain basalt was used for pillars, fine-grain for reliefs. Vitrification on the stones hints at catastrophic heat events. Limestone was available locally but ignored.

Key Facts

  • Newly uncovered pillar structure at Kev Klesi in 2023
  • Basalt identified 7-10 km away on flanks of Mount Supupon
  • Different types of basalt used: coarse grain for pillars, fine grain for ball reliefs
  • Blocks weigh approximately 30 tons each
  • Vitrification on basalt confirmed from coronal mass ejection
  • Ancient builders deliberately chose specific mineral compositions
  • Limestone was native but ignored - shows intentional material selection