Doha, Qatar: Qatar Museums (QM) announced a series of open days at two significant archaeological excavation sites, Ain Mohammed and Mesaika, in northern Qatar, to take place on Feb. 15, March 1, and March 15.
QM invited the public to partake in these unique opportunities to explore the archaeological sites which are part of the "Landscapes of Faith" research project.
The open days will feature guided tours, allowing visitors to engage directly with archaeologists and learn about recent discoveries. Visitors will also have the opportunity to try their hand at excavation and see archaeological finds up close.
In this context, Director of the Archaeology Department at QM, Faisal Al Naimi said, "these open days represent an important opportunity for the public to connect with Qatar's rich cultural heritage, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of history. We want to bring awareness about the importance of learning about our past and preserving archaeological sites in Qatar, as well as encourage community involvement in their conservation."
In turn, Senior Archaeology Academic, Fieldwork Development Specialist at QM, director of the "Landscapes of Faith" research project, Dr. Robert Carter said, "our recent excavations have yielded remarkable findings that highlight Qatar's role during this transformative period. This was a time when people were settling in Qatar in increasing numbers, and taking on a new faith."
"We want to learn more about that process, and understand what drew them here. Our early findings suggest that they were closely involved in manufacturing and trading networks that spanned the wider Islamic world at this time and even extending as far as China, " Carter added.
The "Landscapes of Faith" research project investigates archaeological sites dating as far back as the first to third centuries of Islam (7th-9th centuries CE), a period that witnessed the gradual transition to Islam in eastern Arabia. More than 30 sites from this period have been identified in Qatar, with most located in the northern region of the country.
The two sites picked for excavation were Ain Mohammed North B and Mesaika A because they contained large complex buildings, or smaller units clustered together, sharing walls and spaces resembling small industrial units rather than homes.
In addition to pottery and glass fragments, all of which were made outside Qatar and help date the site, as well as provide evidence of international trade, archaeologists uncovered various items related to daily life. These included quern-stones used to grind grain, an iron key, copper rods (possibly kohl sticks for applying eye make-up), beads, and three spindle whorls. The spindle whorls are particularly interesting as they relate to textile production. Two of whorls feature engraved decorations and are very light, suggesting that fine thread was spun.
