Discovery Channel Documentary on AlUla "Architects of Ancient Arabia" Narrator: Jeremy Irons.
Experience AlUla・2 minutes read
An international team is investigating thousands of ancient stone structures in Saudi Arabia, uncovering evidence of Nabataean tombs and possible ceremonial purposes. Excavations reveal bone fragments dating back to 3,900 BC, deepening Alula's historical significance and prompting the development of programs to safeguard its heritage and connect with its history.
Insights
- Bedouin stories suggest that the stone structures in Alula predate known civilizations, hinting at a rich history beyond established timelines.
- Archaeologists in Alula are uncovering a complex network of over 12,000 stone structures, some built over others, indicating a layered history of construction and potential ceremonial significance, shedding light on ancient civilizations and their practices.
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Recent questions
What are archaeologists investigating in Saudi Arabia?
Stone structures in a remote desert corner.
How many stone structures have been cataloged in Alula?
Over 12,000 stone structures.
What is the purpose of the stone structures in Alula?
Ceremonial and burial purposes.
How old are the stone structures in Alula?
Potentially older than known civilizations.
How are locals involved in safeguarding Alula's heritage?
Through initiatives like rock art exploration.
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Summary
00:00
"Exploring Ancient Stone Structures in Saudi Arabia"
- An international team is investigating ancient stone structures in a remote corner of Saudi Arabia.
- Thousands of enigmatic stone structures are scattered across hundreds of kilometers of desert.
- The team is exploring archaeological sites in Saudi Arabia that have had minimal exploration.
- Two thousand years ago, the Nabataeans built sandstone tombs in Alula to control trade routes.
- The team has cataloged over 12,000 stone structures in Alula, with an estimated 21,000 in total.
- The team is part of a larger investigation led by the Royal Commission for Alula.
- Bedouin stories suggest the desert monuments in Alula are older than known civilizations.
- Archaeologists are using non-invasive technology to create 3D models of ancient sites in Alula.
- The team discovers that some structures were built over others, indicating a sequence of construction.
- Excavations reveal ancient charcoal and fire hearths, suggesting ceremonial purposes for the structures.
25:55
Alula Excavation Uncovers Ancient Structures and Art
- Excavation team aims to uncover structures near standing stone circles, pondering the purpose behind their construction.
- Stones, weighing hundreds of kilos, prompt questions about the effort invested in their creation.
- Discovery of bone fragments, including animal and human remains, suggests proximity to a burial site.
- Unearthing over 1500 bone fragments indicates a minimum of six adults buried at the site, with a radio carbon date of 3,900 BC.
- Alula's historical significance deepens with the discovery of tombs and the unveiling of a living museum plan for the region.
- Program "Hamaya" empowers locals to safeguard Alula's heritage, with initiatives like rock art exploration to connect with the area's history.
- Excavations reveal ancient rock art depicting hunting scenes, cattle herding, and markings possibly signifying ownership, dating back to a wetter period 7-8,000 years ago.
