1. Sumerian Lunar Calendar
The Sumerian lunar calendar was used by the ancient Sumerians in Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq) around 2100 BCE. This calendar is considered one of the earliest known lunar calendars, with a cycle that approximated the solar year. It was calculated based on the cycles of the moon and had various regional variations, allowing for flexibility in agricultural planning. The Sumerians also developed a sexagesimal (base-60) system that greatly influenced modern timekeeping.
2. Egyptian Lunar Calendar
The ancient Egyptians used a lunar calendar to track their 365-day year, with each month beginning on the first sighting of the new moon. This calendar was widely adopted in Egypt around 2500 BCE and continued until the Roman period (30 BCE). The Egyptian lunar calendar consisted of 12 months, with each month approximately 29-30 days long. The calendar also included a 13th month called 'Meshir', added every four years to keep the solar year aligned.
3. Mayan Lunar Calendar
The Mayan people used several lunar calendars in Mesoamerica (modern-day Mexico and Guatemala) between 2000 BCE and 1500 CE. One of these was the Tzolkin, a 260-day calendar consisting of multiple cycles that overlapped each other. The Mayans are known for their complex system of interlocking calendars, which allowed them to track events with great precision. Many of these calendars have been deciphered by scholars and continue to intrigue modern enthusiasts.
4. Babylonian Lunar Calendar
The ancient Babylonians used a lunisolar calendar around 1800 BCE in Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq). This calendar combined elements from both lunar and solar observations, resulting in a cycle that deviated significantly from the solar year. The Babylonians also developed a sophisticated system of astrology based on this calendar. It's worth noting that this calendar was eventually replaced by the Persian Solar Calendar.
5. Kigurati Lunar Calendar
The Kigurati lunar calendar was used by the ancient Kingdom of Kush (in present-day Sudan) between 700 BCE and 300 CE. This calendar featured a unique system of interlocking cycles, including an annual cycle that marked the reigns of kings. It also included lunations (monthly moon observations) that tracked agricultural activities and local events. The Kigurati calendar is significant not only for its lunar alignment but also for its representation of ancient African knowledge and practices.