Archeologist Reveals Truth Behind Arabia's Mysterious Mustatils with Dr. Hugh Thomas | Ep. 55

We sat down with Dr. Hugh Thomas, field director at Zagora and co‑lead of the Pack_Up archaeological project in AlUla, Saudi Arabia, to separate sensational pseudo‑archaeology from rigorous science.From the 7,000‑year‑old mustatil ritual rectangles scattered across the desert to the epic excavations at Zagora in Greece, Dr. Thomas takes us behind the scenes of real fieldwork: the stakes of destructive excavation, the necessity of ethical reburial of human remains, and why each dig is literally a “one‑shot” opportunity to preserve context.We explore how community archaeology empowers local stakeholders to combat conspiracy theories and how groundbreaking lab methods like radiocarbon (C¹⁴) and bioapatite dating, isotope analysis, and even protein fingerprinting of ancient cattle teeth, are transforming our understanding of Neolithic ritual practices.If you’ve ever wondered how honest archaeology stacks up against fast‑and‑loose myths about Atlantis, aliens, or lost super‑civilizations, this is the conversation to stick around for.𝕏 Follow our guest on X → https://x.com/hughs_newsAnd Follow the Pack_Up Project here → https://x.com/PAKEP_KSA🛍️ Support Elevated Thoughts by shopping our affiliate link! https://www.amazon.com/shop/broopersimms🧠 Find more from us → http://www.ElevatedThoughtsPod.comWe are also on YouTube and Apple Podcasts!🎧 YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@ElevatedThoughtsPod🎙️ Apple Pods → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevated-thoughts/id1736414535💬 What do you think? Comment below!--00:00 Introduction to Archaeology and Its Misconceptions02:54 Real Experiences in Archaeology06:02 Excavation Techniques and Ethical Considerations09:04 Challenges of Field Work in Remote Locations12:00 The Reality of Excavating Human Remains14:55 Understanding Ancient Structures in Saudi Arabia18:03 The Significance of Mustatil Structures20:52 Ethics in Archaeology and Human Remains23:56 Cultural Perspectives on Archaeological Practices33:08 Ancient Cults and Community Structures36:26 Modern Archaeological Techniques and Discoveries39:24 The Role of Local Communities in Archaeology42:37 Challenging Archaeological Orthodoxy46:11 The Importance of Science Communication in Archaeology49:44 Adapting Theories in Light of New Evidence55:44 The Physical Demands of Archaeological Excavation01:04:34 Engaging with the Public and Future of Archaeology