Latest news with #FarasanIsland
Arab News
26-05-2025
- Science
- Arab News
Saudi-French archeological mission uncovers ancient sites on Farasan Island
RIYADH: A joint Saudi-French archeological mission to excavate ancient sites on Farasan Island, in the Jazan region, has been concluded by the Heritage Commission. The initiative, in collaboration with Paris 1 Pantheon-Sorbonne University, featured a team of experts from the French National Centre for Scientific Research, the Saudi Press Agency reported. It aimed to reveal settlement phases and chronological sequences at the excavation sites — Qusar, Ghurrayn, and Wadi Shami, which date from the first to third centuries — as well as study various burial grounds. The work is part of a scientific project highlighting the historical and strategic importance of the Farasan archipelago, particularly its key role in maritime trade across the Red Sea through various historical periods. It included male and female students from national universities, as well as participants from Paris 1 Pantheon-Sorbonne University. Previous excavations under the same project, which took place from 2011 to 2024, have yielded significant findings dating back to the Bronze Age and the periods of Southern Arabian states. Discoveries have included watchtowers and industrial sites believed to be remnants of a camp dating back to the second century B.C. The findings underscore the rich cultural exchange that took place on Farasan Island, highlighting its pivotal role in connecting Southern Arabian civilizations with those of the Mediterranean. Prehistoric shell mounds and human settlements further emphasize the islands' historical significance.
Asharq Al-Awsat
26-05-2025
- Science
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Joint Saudi-French Archaeological Mission Completes Excavations on Farasan Island's Ancient Sites
The Heritage Commission has concluded a joint Saudi-French archaeological mission that excavated ancient sites dating back to the period between the first and third centuries AD on the Farasan Island in the Jazan Region. The effort was conducted in collaboration with Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University and featured a team of experts from the French National Center for Scientific Research. The excavation sites, including Qusar, Ghurrayn, and Wadi Shami, were integral to the project, which sought to complete the archaeological works in the area. The mission aimed to reveal the phases of settlement and chronological sequences at the archaeological sites, alongside studying various burial sites. These efforts are part of a scientific project that spotlights the historical and strategic importance of the Farasan archipelago, particularly its pivotal role in maritime trade across the Red Sea during different historical periods. The mission involved male and female students from national universities as well as participants from Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University, engaging in a field training program under the guidance of academics and specialized experts. Previous excavations conducted from 2011 to 2024 under the project have yielded significant findings dating back to the Bronze Age and periods associated with the states of Southern Arabia. Discoveries included watchtowers and industrial sites believed to be remnants of a camp established in the 2nd century BC to monitor and protect maritime trade routes. These archaeological findings underscore the deep cultural exchange that occurred on the Farasan islands, showcasing their pivotal role in connecting the civilizations of Southern Arabia with those of the Mediterranean. Prehistoric shell mounds and human settlements further emphasize the islands' historical significance.
