CHRIS THURMAN: The preciousness and precariousness of water
Drought has led to startling discoveries while Kathy Robins explores our struggles with nature’s basic liquid
The drought in Europe has brought river and dam levels to almost unprecedented lows, revealing a variety of previously submerged curiosities. These include archaeologically significant treasures, such as the Dolmen of Guadalperal (the “Spanish Stonehenge”) as well as bridges, fortresses, weapons and clothing items dating to the Roman Empire.
Many of the discoveries have more sombre overtones. The portentously named “hunger stones” along rivers in Germany and the Czech Republic bear inscriptions from those who have lived through periods of drought in centuries past. More recent historical markers also emerged: an enormous undetonated bomb dropped by Allied forces into Italy’s Po River during World War 2, and a fleet of Nazi warships scuttled in the Danube in Serbia. ..
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.