The Palaeolithic exploration of the French Archaeological Mission, led by Dr Amir Beshkani, has discovered an important prehistoric site in Al Ma’amoor. Some lithic artefacts were found on the surface and, for the first time in central Oman, excavations led on the site revealed stone tools in their stratigraphic context.
This unique discovery sheds light on 12,000 years old habitation in the area, helping to learn more about the prehistoric populations of Oman.
The French Archaeological Mission in central Oman works in the region of Bisya (Wilayat of Bahla, Al Dakhiliyah Governorate) in collaboration with the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism of the Sultanate of Oman. Supported by the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the French National Research Centre and the Paris-Sorbonne University, the team is co-headed by Dr Martin Sauvage and Dr Mathilde Jean.
The scientific activities of the team aim at documenting the rich heritage of Oman. Several periods are investigated, from the prehistoric times (Palaeolithic) to the Early Bronze Age and the birth of Omani culture.
The team also works at Al Dhabi, on an Early Bronze Age site. This important site gathering monumental architecture, settlement and tombs is a unique opportunity to understand the roots of the history of central Oman. The mapping of the whole site (Dr Martin Sauvage) by aerial views, topography and on-site drawing highlights the organisation of the main tower on the hill (50m in diametres) and of the settlement walls on the foothills.
Under the supervision of Dr Olivia Munoz, two tombs from the Hafit period (3200-2700 BC) were excavated. One of them was reused during the Umm an-Nar period (2700-2000 BC) and delivered human bones, local and imported pottery as well as shell and cornelian beads. The tombs show the long-distance connection between Oman (ancient Majan), Iran and the Indus valley since that time.
The excavation mainly focused on the settlement (Dr Mathilde Jean). A 150 m2 area was investigated, unearthing several buildings made of stone and mudbrick from the Umm an-Nar period (2700-2000 BC). Several rooms were found, including a possible courtyard, probably forming a house.
Objects from the daily life were found on the floor of the building, including pottery and grinding stones for preparing food. Under this main occupation, older levels were also excavated: a number of pits and fireplaces probably belonging to more ancient periods that still have to be determined using radiocarbon dating.
The history of Al Dhabi and the region of Bisya is at least 5,000 years old.
This is the time when ancient populations become sedentary, when agriculture and oasis were born.
The role of Al Dhabi in this rich history is still to be precisely determined but the site is already an important place for the birth of Omani culture.
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