Sky Disc of Nebra

The World's Oldest Star Map

An exact, full-sized replica of the disc recently discovered within a Neolithic woodhenge observatory near Nebra, Germany. The original, bronze with gold plated stars, shows several constellations, including The Pleiades. It may have been used to predict the timing of the autumn harvest and lunar eclipses. Other scholars posit that it may have been used in shamanic rituals. Symmetrical arcs at the sides appear to mark sunrise and sunset on the solstices and equinoxes. In the center are a crescent and a full moon. Scholars have not yet deciphered the symbolism of the remaining arc, which could represent a ship with oars sailing the celestial seas, or perhaps served as a sundial.[2600-1600 B.C.E.]

Cold cast bronze plaque, 11 in. handpainted. #SDN