Google Doodle Honors 9,000-Year-Old Ain Ghazal Statues

Today, Google is commemorating the ancient Ain Ghazal statues with a beautifully crafted Google Doodle. These statues, dating back around 9,000 years, are some of the earliest large-scale representations of humans. They were discovered in Jordan on this very day in 1983.

The Ain Ghazal statues are not only old but also incredibly mysterious. Even after years of study, researchers are still unsure why they were made. What we do know is that our ancient ancestors carefully buried these statues after they served their purpose. They arranged them in an east-to-west direction, adding to their mystery.

Archaeologists found the first group of these underground statues in 1983, and a second group in 1985 at the Neolithic site of 'Ain Ghazal in Jordan. These statues depict men, women, and children with intricate human features like almond-shaped eyes, prominent noses, and even realistic legs, toes, and toenails. This attention to detail shows the skill and artistry of the people who lived thousands of years ago.

The Ain Ghazal statues have captured the imagination of people around the world. Today, you can see them in prestigious galleries and museums, including the Jordan Museum and Jordan Archaeological Museum. They have also been shared with international audiences, with one statue displayed at the Louvre Museum in Paris, parts of three others showcased at the British Museum in London, and a figure with two heads being exhibited at the Louvre Abu Dhabi.

These statues remind us not only of the artistic talents of our ancient ancestors but also of the mysteries that surround our history. As we celebrate these captivating relics today, we are reminded of the enduring power of art and our continuous quest to uncover the secrets of our past.

Also Read: Google Doodle Celebrates Keirō no Hi, a Day of Respect for Elders