The World`s Oldest Computer build in Rhodes. The story of Antikythera Mechanism

The Antikythera Mechanism is an ancient Greek mechanical computer that was discovered in the early 20th century on the island of Antikythera, located off the coast of Greece. The mechanism, which is thought to have been constructed in the first or second century BC, is considered to be one of the most complex and sophisticated devices of its time.

The story of the Antikythera Mechanism begins on the island of Rhodes, which was a center of learning and culture in ancient Greece. It was here that the mechanism is believed to have been designed and constructed by a group of skilled craftsmen and mathematicians.

The purpose of the Antikythera Mechanism is still not fully understood, but it is thought to have been used as a kind of astronomical calculator. It is known to have had at least 37 gear wheels, which were used to calculate the positions of the sun, moon, and planets in the sky, as well as to predict eclipses and other astronomical events.

The mechanism was also used to track the cycles of the solar and lunar calendars, which were important for determining the dates of religious festivals and other important events. It is believed that the mechanism was used by scholars and astronomers to study the movements of the celestial bodies and to make predictions about the future.

The Antikythera Mechanism was likely a highly prized possession, as it would have required a significant amount of resources and expertise to construct. It is thought that the mechanism was owned by a wealthy and influential person, possibly a member of the aristocracy or a high-ranking government official.

The mechanism was eventually lost and forgotten, until it was discovered by a group of divers in the early 20th century. The divers were searching for ancient artifacts in the waters off the island of Antikythera when they stumbled upon the mechanism, which had been preserved in the depths of the sea for hundreds of years.

Since its discovery, the Antikythera Mechanism has been a source of fascination for historians and scientists around the world. It is considered a testament to the ingenuity and technological sophistication of the ancient Greeks, and is still being studied and analyzed by researchers today.