News DeskAlUla, Saudi Arabia, – A recent unveiling of groundbreaking archaeological findings has provided fresh insights into the intricate tapestry of ancient AlUla and the broader north-west Arabia region. These revelations, unveiled in the new book titled “Revealing Cultural Landscapes in North-West Arabia,” a supplement to the Proceedings of the Seminar for Arabian Studies, Volume 51, were compiled and edited by Dr. Rebecca Foote, the Director of Archaeology and Cultural Heritage Research at the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU), alongside an esteemed team of international experts.
The compilation of articles within the book sheds light on the remarkable archaeological legacy of AlUla, extending beyond its renowned landmarks such as the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hegra, its lush oases, and well-established settlements. Initially presented in a Special Session of papers organized by Dr. Foote at the 54th Seminar for Arabian Studies, these findings are a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region.
The publication coincides with the upcoming AlUla World Archaeology Summit, a significant event hosted by the RCU, which promises to attract a diverse audience, including academics and individuals with a keen appreciation for our shared human heritage. Scheduled to be held at AlUla’s Maraya venue from September 13 to 15, the summit will feature a comprehensive array of events, presentations, debates, and discussions.
The three-day AlUla World Archaeology Summit will convene a select group of global experts and specialists in archaeological discovery, research, preservation, conservation, and more. They will engage in thoughtful reflections on the field’s transformative potential in society and have the opportunity to explore AlUla’s cultural urban centers and ancient landscapes.
The discoveries outlined in “Revealing Cultural Landscapes in North-West Arabia” underscore the importance of comprehending life in north-west Arabia for a full appreciation of the intricate history of the diverse peoples who inhabited the greater Middle East region from the Palaeolithic era to the Islamic period.
Among the highlights in the book are revelations from AlUla, Khaybar, and beyond, including an extraordinary archaeological landscape survey conducted from both the air and the ground. Noteworthy findings encompass a Neolithic site in Sakaka, featuring life-sized camels carved in high relief, which adds a new dimension to Saudi Arabia’s rock art. Another study covers excavations in AlUla that unveiled exceptionally complex practices and interactions with the environment at the Neolithic mustatil and circular domestic structures. Furthermore, the book includes evidence of pre-Nabataean numismatics and ceramics recovered at Ḥegra, shedding light on the pre-Nabataean occupation of the site.
Dr. Foote emphasized, “AlUla is an exceptional archaeological frontier that captures global attention, attracting diverse audiences ranging from specialized experts to tourists eager to explore the world’s largest living museum. The recent release of ‘Revealing Cultural Landscapes in North-West Arabia’ and the forthcoming AlUla World Archaeology Summit further solidify AlUla’s pivotal role in the region. Each new discovery and research endeavor expands our knowledge and understanding of the rich history of north-west Arabia.”
The unveiling of these archaeological treasures promises to deepen our understanding of this culturally significant region and reinforces AlUla’s standing as a global center for archaeological research and cultural heritage appreciation.
