Die Entstehung komplexer Siedlungen im Zentraloman: Archaologische Untersuchungen zur Siedlungsgeschichte von Al-Khashbah

Al-Khashbah, ein frühbronzezeitlicher Fundort auf der Omanischen Halbinsel, wurde durch Surveys von der Universität Tübingen untersucht. Zehn Monumentalgebäude, 273 Gräber und andere Bauwerke wurden gefunden, die die Entwicklung komplexer Siedlungen und Gesellschaftsstrukturen im nördlichen Inner-Oman am Übergang vom 4. zum 3. Jahrtausend v. Chr. beleuchten. Die Kupferproduktion war in dieser Zeit wichtig, jedoch verringerte sich ihre Bedeutung im Laufe der Zeit. Die Wiederbelebung des Ortes erfolgte im 18.–20. Jahrhundert n. Chr. mit Lehmziegelsiedlungen, Siedlungen, Bewässerungsanlagen, Friedhöfen, Petroglyphen und spätislamischen Keramikscherben.

Format: Hardback
Length: 542 pages
Publication date: 30 December 2021
Publisher: Archaeopress

Al-Khashbah: A Prominent Frühbronzezeitliche Fundort in Oman

Al-Khashbah, located on the Omanische Halbinsel, stands as one of the largest and most significant early bronze age sites. In 2015 and beyond, the Institute for the Cultures of the Ancient Orient at the University of Tübingen conducted extensive surveys within this ancient settlement. The results of these surveys are presented in the present compilation, shedding light on the rich tapestry of history and culture that unfolded in Al-Khashbah.

During the surveys, a remarkable array of ten monumental buildings, 273 graves, and various other architectural structures from the Hafit (3100-2700 BCE) and Umm an-Nar (2700-2000 BCE) periods were documented. This extensive documentation has positioned Al-Khashbah as a prime destination for studying the origins period of complex settlements and societal structures in northern Oman during the transition from the 4th to 3rd millennium BCE.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Al-Khashbah is the presence of numerous achievements previously attributed to the Umm an-Nar period. Notably, the monumental architecture and the skill of copper smelting, which are documented in the Umm an-Nar era, can already be observed in the preceding Hafit period. This discovery underscores the continuous development and growth of Al-Khashbah during this time.

In the Umm an-Nar period, Al-Khashbah experienced a further surge in importance, leading to the expansion of its settlement. The survey results indicate that the local copper production played a lesser role in this period compared to earlier eras. However, it is worth noting that the excavation efforts have uncovered a wealth of valuable information and artifacts, contributing to our understanding of the history and culture of Al-Khashbah.

The surveys conducted in Al-Khashbah have provided valuable insights into the early bronze age civilization in Oman. The rich architectural heritage, the burial practices, and the cultural developments witnessed during this period offer a glimpse into the complex social structures and economic activities of the time. Al-Khashbah continues to be a valuable resource for researchers and enthusiasts alike, shedding light on the rich history and cultural heritage of the region.

Weight: 2778g
Dimension: 221 x 303 x 53 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781803271002