Wow 4712 BCE was when the pyramids were new and shiny. Just kidding, it turns out it was the first Julian day. Got some help here:
January 1, 4713 BCE marks the beginning of the Julian Day count. This system was introduced by Joseph Scaliger in 1583 CE.
Scaliger selected 4713 BCE as the starting point because it is the nearest date where three cycles—solar, lunar, and Roman indiction—coincide. These cycles are:
January 1, 4713 BCE marks the beginning of the Julian Day count. This system was introduced by Joseph Scaliger in 1583 CE.
Scaliger selected 4713 BCE as the starting point because it is the nearest date where three cycles—solar, lunar, and Roman indiction—coincide. These cycles are:
The 28-year solar cycle.
The 19-year Metonic lunar cycle.
The 15-year Roman indiction cycle.