Saudi Arabia’s Heritage Commission expands research on ancient mountains to uncover climate connections

Saudi Arabia’s Heritage Commission has announced plans to expand research and excavation efforts across newly identified mustatil sites, some of the world’s oldest stone structures, located within the Kingdom. This initiative aims to deepen understanding of ancient societies and their adaptive strategies, as discussed during a recent virtual meeting attended by leading scientists. This is reported by Arab News.

Experts presented preliminary findings on mustatil sites in the Hail region, a significant location for these ancient structures. These stone enclosures, often dating back to between 4200 and 5400 B.C., represent early human endeavours in architecture and environmental adaptation. The Heritage Commission has underscored the importance of exploring the environmental aspects of these sites, linking them to historic climate shifts that shaped the region’s ecology and early human life.

The Heritage Commission emphasised the significance of mustatil sites for understanding the Arabian Peninsula's ancient civilizations. It also highlighted how aerial photography and 3D scanning are revealing previously unknown details of these sites, providing new insights into the architectural practices and cultural importance of these structures.

Moreover, the Commission is fostering collaboration with international researchers and enthusiasts, underscoring Saudi Arabia’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage.

Researchers engaged with various topics during the virtual meeting, including construction techniques, climate connections, and preservation efforts for these archaeological sites. With advanced archaeological methods, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Culture is leading efforts to document and understand mustatil sites, bridging past human experiences with contemporary cultural preservation.

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