Tell Ahmar on the Syrian Euphrates: From Chalcolithic Village to Assyrian Provincial Capital

Ahmar, also known as Masuwari, Til Barsib, and Kar-Shalmaneser, was first inhabited in the sixth millennium and developed into a regional center and provincial capital of the Assyrian empire. Remains from the third millennium, second millennium, and first millennium are impressive. The book offers an archaeological and historical synthesis of the excavations of François Thureau-Dangin and the universities of Melbourne and Liège.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 06 June 2022
Publisher: Oxbow Books

In the sixth millennium BCE, the ancient city of Ahmar, also known as Masuwari, Til Barsib, and Kar-Shalmaneser, began to take shape. It was initially inhabited during the Ubaid period and gradually evolved into a regional center. By the eighth and seventh centuries, it had become the provincial capital of the Assyrian empire. The site boasts a rich history, with remnants from the third millennium (a temple and a funerary complex), the second millennium (an administrative complex and well-preserved houses), and the first millennium (an Assyrian palace and elite residences) standing as testament to its significance.

The book, authored by a team of experts, provides a comprehensive and detailed archaeological and historical analysis of the excavations conducted at Ahmar. It offers a comprehensive and diachronic view of the site's evolution, highlighting its strategic location on the Euphrates at a crucial crossroads of ancient communication routes. This position made Ahmar a hub of cultural and political interaction between Mesopotamia, the Mediterranean world, and Asia Minor.

The book explores the various phases of the city's development, from its early settlement to its rise as a regional center and provincial capital. It sheds light on the social, economic, and political structures of the city, as well as the cultural influences and exchanges that took place within its walls. The excavations have uncovered a wealth of artifacts and remains, including pottery, sculptures, inscriptions, and architectural features, which provide valuable insights into the daily life and customs of the ancient inhabitants.

The book also discusses the historical context of Ahmar's development, including the rise and fall of the Assyrian empire and the political and cultural influences that shaped its trajectory. It explores the site's role in the broader regional political landscape and its significance in the trade and commerce of the ancient world.

Overall, the book offers a valuable contribution to our understanding of ancient history and archaeology. It provides a detailed and comprehensive analysis of the excavations at Ahmar, shedding light on the rich and complex history of this ancient city. It is a must-read for anyone interested in ancient civilizations, cultural heritage, and the evolution of human societies.

Dimension: 280 x 216 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789258387