Archaeologists in western Poland have recently unearthed two significant prehistoric structures termed the “Polish pyramids.” These megalithic tombs, believed to be over 5,500 years old, were found in the General Dezydery Chłapowski Landscape Park, near the village of Wyskoć in the Wielkopolska region.

This finding marks only the second discovery of such structures in the area, following an earlier discovery in 2019. The research team from Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań used advanced remote sensing technology during their field survey to locate these ancient tombs.

Dating back to the 4th millennium BC, these structures were attributed to the Funnelbeaker Culture, a Neolithic society celebrated for its grand burial architecture. Initial archaeological investigations into two of the five identified sites confirmed their construction at the end of the Stone Age.

The megalithic tombs feature elongated earth mounds with a unique trapezoidal shape, measuring up to 200 meters in length and standing four meters tall. Their triangular profile has drawn comparisons to pyramids.

Artur Golis, a specialist from the Wielkopolska Province Landscape Parks Complex, noted that while the Funnelbeaker culture was egalitarian, the tombs were reserved for influential community members like leaders and shamans. Constructing these tombs required impressive Neolithic engineering skills.

Massive stones, some weighing up to ten tons, were transported from great distances, revealing a communal effort. The structures also showed precise alignment with cardinal directions, indicating the builders possessed an advanced understanding of astronomy.

In terms of burial practices, each tomb typically housed a single skeleton oriented towards the east, symbolizing solar worship and rebirth. Although no human remains have been discovered yet, the potential for grave offerings, including tools and pottery, remains high, providing further insight into the cultural practices of the Funnelbeaker people.

As excavation work proceeds, the site is currently closed to the public. Once complete, officials may consider opening it as a new tourist destination that highlights Poland’s rich prehistoric heritage.