Muscat: This session, led by Dr. Maria Pia Maiorano and Dr. Lukas Proctor from the Czech mission, highlighted the importance of Al Khashabah in unraveling the region’s rich prehistory.
Located in the interior of Oman, Al Khashabah’s Neolithic significance has come into sharper focus with ongoing excavations. The site, which dates from 3300 to 7000 BC, offers invaluable insights into the lives of ancient peoples in Oman and southeastern Arabia. Dr. Maiorano and Dr. Proctor emphasized that while numerous Neolithic sites have been discovered along Oman’s coast, few have been documented in the interior regions, making Al Khashabah a critical piece of the puzzle in understanding early human activity in the region.
Excavations at this expansive 15,000-square-meter site, which began in 2022 as part of the HERDS IN OMAN project, have unearthed significant evidence of prehistoric life. From hearths and shelters to stone tools and jewelry, the findings span the period between 4000-5500 BC. Researchers have also discovered abundant charcoal remains, shedding light on the frequent use of the site. Notably, the discovery of seashells and mangrove wood suggests that Al Khashabah may have served as a seasonal stop for nomadic fishermen or pastoralists, highlighting the interconnectedness between the site’s inhabitants and coastal resources.
