Rediscovered megalithic engravings in Slovakia: 3D reconstruction and comparative analysis of a forgotten Neolithic site - npj Heritage Science

The engraved stones uncovered in 1988 in Holíč, western Slovakia, represent a little-known megalithic site of probable prehistoric origin, situated in an underexplored region of Europe. This study presents detailed reconstructions of three engravings using high-resolution lasergrammetry, archival photography and full-scale hand tracing. The motifs consist of a human figure with a tool, a probable animal and concentric circles. Geometric analysis suggests alignment of the engravings with symbolically significant anatomical points. Archaeoastronomical mapping indicates a westward orientation consistent with the summer solstice sunset. While the site lacks stratigraphic context due to post-discovery disturbance, stylistic comparisons link the carvings to Neolithic traditions in France, Italy and Scotland. These findings raise new questions about the eastern extent of Neolithic monumental culture. We advocate for the preservation of the Holíč stones and recommend further interdisciplinary investigation.