Archaeologists have uncovered an ancient settlement near Erbil. This thrilling find shines light on human history and ancient settlement life in the region.
A Kurdish-American team made this remarkable discovery in the Shamamok plains. The site sits about 40 kilometers southeast of Erbil. It covers roughly three hectares spread across four separate mounds.
Experts see this location as crucial for understanding the region’s past. It now ranks as an important piece of heritage for both the Kurdistan Region and beyond.
Ali Bani Shari from the Directorate of Antiquities and Heritage shared exciting details. He explained that work at this ancient settlement started in 2022. This season marks the fourth year of successful excavation efforts.
The project comes from teamwork between Erbil’s archaeologists and Bryn Mawr College in the United States. Together, they aim to uncover secrets of ancient settlement life during different periods.
So far, they’ve explored layers from the Late Chalcolithic period and the Hellenistic age. The Chalcolithic period dates back to 4500-3300 BCE. The Hellenistic era ranges between 323 and 31 BCE.
Among their discoveries stands a six-room house complete with a kitchen. Next to it, they uncovered a larger structure believed to be a palace. These buildings reveal clues about how people lived and worked in this ancient settlement.
One fascinating finding involves an ancient settlement suddenly left empty after a major earthquake. Scientists found no signs of battles or fires. Instead, people seemed to have fled fast, leaving everything behind.
Rocco Palermo, the project’s director from Bryn Mawr College, shared his excitement. He said the team investigates two main historical phases. They want to learn how small communities handled big changes such as growing empires.
He also noted something special. Hundreds of artifacts like pottery and tools remained untouched where people left them. This gives experts a rare look into everyday life from thousands of years ago. Such details often stay hidden in most archaeological digs.
Meanwhile, Erbil itself holds deep historic roots. People have lived there since around 6000 BCE. Its famous Citadel, listed by UNESCO, shows layer upon layer of human settlement. This latest discovery near the city only adds to its rich story.
Archaeologists hope more secrets wait under the soil. Each new find at the ancient settlement might help explain how people adapted through history. With each season, they learn more about ancient settlement life in this fascinating region.