New Discoveries at Sijilmassa Could Redefine Morocco's Ancient African Connections
Rabat – Morocco's National Institute of Archeology and Heritage (INSAP) has launched a comprehensive research program at the ancient site of Sijilmassa.
This initiative seeks to reveal the mysteries of one of Morocco's most historically significant cities, which once played a vital role in connecting the country to sub-Saharan Africa.
This research is entirely led by Moroccan experts, with Asmae Al-Qasimi, a heritage professor and specialist, overseeing the local team. Abdeljalil Bouzouggar, director of the Institute, noted that the discoveries expected from this project could shift the understanding of Morocco's role in African history.
Bouzouggar told SNRTnews that the ongoing research at Sijilmassa and the Chellah sites as groundbreaking for Morocco. This marks the first large-scale excavation of its kind in the country, in terms of size and the modern techniques employed.
He added that these projects represent some of the largest archaeological undertakings led by the Institute since the country's independence, and the findings will likely redefine the region's historical significance.
Al-Qasimi, the project leader, explained that the team is focused on deep excavations to uncover the true nature of Sijilmassa, as much of its historical architecture remains buried beneath the earth.
She shared that the archaeological layers at Sijilmassa stretch from the 8th to the 18th century, with recent discoveries shedding new light on the city's past and possibly rewriting its history.
The researcher also pointed out that while earlier excavations were conducted during the colonial period by teams from Italy, the US, and France, those efforts were much smaller in scope compared to the current project.
Read also: Sijilmasa: Morocco's Contribution to the Trans-Saharan Gold Trade
What sets this excavation apart is the use of advanced, modern technologies for the first time in Morocco, including drones and 3D imaging, techniques that are internationally recognized and have been successfully implemented by the Moroccan team.
To date, the research has covered approximately 8,000 square meters of the site, revealing layers of history spanning from the 6th to the 18th centuries. The excavations have already uncovered important findings that could reshape the understanding of Morocco's historical narrative.
Al-Qasimi confirmed that the research has unveiled the original nucleus of the city, as well as archaeological points that have never before been documented in the field.
The Ministry of Youth plans to announce the full results once the research concludes.
Historically, Sijilmassa was a key passageway to the African coast, connecting Morocco to empires like Ghana and Senegal.
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