Iron Age impact on a Bronze Age archaeological landscape: results from the Italian Mission to Oman excavations at Salūt, Sultanate of Oman
Abstract
The excavation of an Early Bronze Age third-millennium tower near the Iron Age site of Salūt (near Wādī Bahlāʾ), has revealed a significant reoccupation with extensive building activity dating from the first millennium BC, focused upon the tower's central well. The evidence from the excavation of the tower can be combined with data from the site of Salūt itself, where two dismantled Bronze Age tombs were covered by Iron Age buildings. A survey of the area around Salut has revealed more Iron Age sites in close proximity to Early Bronze Age sites as well as the reuse of Bronze Age tombs. Following the presentation of data we will explore to what extent they indicate a significant change in settlement pattern and land use. The apparent gap in occupation, which is evident for much of the second millennium BC, will also be highlighted and possible explanations considered. The paper will provide a detailed account of the Bronze-Iron Age settlement history, from a specific part of Oman, for future comparison with other parts of south-east Arabia.
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Archaeopress Publishing, Oxford, UK