Roman Dodecahedra: 100+ 12-sided bronze artifacts found across Europe, purpose unknown. Over 100 twelve-sided copper alloy artifacts found at Roman-era sites across Europe, but not in Italy First one found in a field in England in 1739 Found in Roman military camps, public baths, temples, theaters, and tombs with no clear pattern

Over 100 twelve-sided copper alloy objects have been discovered at Roman-era sites across Europe, yet never in Italy itself. The first was found in an English field in 1739. They've turned up in military camps, baths, temples, theaters, and tombs with no clear pattern. More than 50 academic theories exist, including candlestick holder, leather stretching tool, rope weaving device, counterfeit coin checker, survey instrument, puzzle, and ritual fortune-telling object. Some bear wax residue, possibly from making rather than using them. No two are identical, challenging standard tool theories, and they're rarely found in workshops. Made from expensive bronze by skilled craftsmen, one theory suggests they served as guild tests to demonstrate smithing skill, though their true purpose remains a mystery.

Key Facts

  • Over 100 twelve-sided copper alloy artifacts found at Roman-era sites across Europe, but not in Italy
  • First one found in a field in England in 1739
  • Found in Roman military camps, public baths, temples, theaters, and tombs with no clear pattern
  • Over 50 academic theories published on their purpose; popular theories include candlestick holder, leather stretching tool, rope weaving, counterfeit coin checker, survey instrument, puzzle/game, and ritual fortune-telling object
  • Some discovered with wax residue attached, possibly from making the objects rather than use
  • No two dodecahedra are identical, challenging standard tool theories
  • Not usually found in workshops where tools are typically discovered
  • Made of expensive bronze material requiring skilled craftsmanship
  • One theory suggests they were tests for smiths to demonstrate skill for guild membership

Source: 6 #Ancient #Artifacts That #Archaeology Can't Explain by Inside Archaeology