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Researchers Discover 6,000 Year-Old Temple That Hosted Regular Ritual Animal Sacrifices

By Kamal Nayan | Update Date: Oct 22, 2014 11:35 AM EDT

Researchers have discovered a 6,000 year old temple in Ukraine that hosted regular ritual animal sacrifices, according to a new study. 

After a number of digs, researchers found scores of animal bones scattered among temple's ruins and an altar where the animals may have been sacrificed. 

"The two-story wood and clay structure stretches 197 feet in length and 66 feet wide; it was outfitted with a courtyard. First discovered in 2009, it has slowly been uncovered since. Researchers have been exploring the area where the temple was found since the 1970's. The worship site was part of a significant village, spanning more than 66 acres. At its height, the ancient settlement boasted more than 1,200 buildings and some 50 streets," UPI reported. 

Researchers also found human-like figurines and ornaments made of bones and gold. 

According to researchers, the temple is a part of the Trypillian culture - a name given to culture of one of the earliest villages in Ukraine. 

The study has been detailed in the journal Tyragetia.

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