Excavation Uncovers New Secrets in Ancient Babylon

An ongoing archaeological excavation in the Babylon Governorate of Iraq has yielded 478 artifacts, according to a recent site visit by the local excavation committee. The artifacts discovered at the site include pottery, cylinder seals, and items inscribed with ancient cuneiform script, contributing valuable insights into the ancient Babylonian civilization.

A Detailed Look at the Excavation Site

The committee, led by Mr. Suhail Al-Tamimi, Director of Excavations, visited Block 19/3, District 38 Fayadia, where the excavation is headed by Qahtan Abbas Hassan Aboud, and consequently issued a press release about the research findings.

The excavation area is divided into two key sections: Point A and Point B, each offering unique insights into Babylon's history.

Point A is situated in the southern section and covers an area of 6 dunams (approximately 6,000 square meters or 1.5 acres). This area contains two distinct floor levels, the first of which has been eroded due to natural forces and previous disturbances, likely from earlier excavations or environmental factors. However, the second floor remains intact and dates back to ancient Babylon, providing a well-preserved snapshot of the city’s historical architecture.

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Arial view of Point A and Point B at the Fayadia District, Babylon Governorate, Iraq. (Iraq’s State Board of Antiquities and Heritage)

Point B, which spans 9 dunams (approximately 9,000 square meters or 2.2 acres), houses two residential units with rooms of varying dimensions. These structures appear to offer a glimpse into daily life in Babylon, likely belonging to common citizens or officials. The diversity in room sizes suggests different uses, possibly including living spaces, storage areas, and workspaces.

One of the features in Point A area. (Iraq’s State Board of Antiquities and Heritage)

Rich Array of Artifacts

One of the most exciting outcomes of this excavation is the discovery of 478 artifacts. Among the finds are pottery vessels, crucial for understanding Babylonian domestic life, as well as cylinder seals—used in ancient Mesopotamia for marking ownership and authorizing documents.

The cuneiform script, etched onto clay tablets, nails, and other surfaces, offers a wealth of historical information. These texts may reveal more about Babylon’s political, economic, and religious systems once they are fully deciphered.

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Left; Cuneiform script tablets. Right; Cylinder seals. (Iraq’s State Board of Antiquities and Heritage)

These discoveries not only add to the understanding of ancient Babylon but also highlight the meticulous craftsmanship and complex society of the Babylonians. The artifacts are expected to be studied further, offering additional context to the city’s daily life and governance.

Ceramics with ancient artwork from the site. (Iraq’s State Board of Antiquities and Heritage)

Ongoing Excavations and Future Work

The excavation is far from complete, with work continuing in both sectors to uncover additional layers of Babylon’s long history. The committee overseeing the project has emphasized the importance of sticking to scientific excavation methods. This includes thorough documentation of all findings, using photography, drawings, and proper recording of archaeological meetings. These methods ensure that the discoveries can be analyzed and shared with the broader academic community.

The committee has recommended full disclosure of all excavation activities to preserve the integrity of the site and its historical significance. By following established guidelines, the excavation team aims to protect the cultural heritage of Babylon while making important contributions to the field of archaeology.

This excavation is part of a broader effort by Iraq's General Body for Antiquities and Heritage to explore and preserve the rich archaeological heritage of ancient Mesopotamia, home to some of the world’s earliest civilizations.

Top image: Left; Officials examine a trough-like feature at the site. Right; Seals and     Source: Iraq’s State Board of Antiquities and Heritage

By Gary Manners