A recent study published in the journal Levant reveals new insights into Neolithic life in northwest Saudi Arabia. The research was conducted under the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) and uncovers a more sophisticated society than previously believed.
The research team included experts from King Saud University, local AlUla residents such as Youssef Al-Balawi who provided ethnographic and cultural insights, and students from the University of Hail. This study greatly clarifies the connected yet distinct nature of the Neolithic period in AlUla.
Sophisticated Society Revealed
Jane McMahon from the University of Sydney led a research team that uncovered evidence of a complex community engaged in cattle herding, jewellery crafting, and extensive trade networks. These settlements were strategically located, and facilitated commerce with distant regions, including eastern Jordan and coastal areas along the Red Sea.
McMahon explained that “this research challenges hypotheses about how early northwest Arabian inhabitants lived.” She emphasized that these people were not merely simple pastoralists but had distinctive architecture, domesticated animals, jewellery, and diverse tools. Based on the number and size of stone circles, their population was likely substantial and much larger than previously thought.
Findings on Standing Stone Circles
The team presented conclusions on archaeological investigations of standing stone circles—structures made of vertically placed stone slabs forming circles with diameters ranging from four to eight meters. The study examined 431 standing stone circles at various sites in Harrat Uwayrid in AlUla, with 52 undergoing field surveys and 11 being excavated.
The stone slabs, arranged in two concentric rows, likely supported wooden poles, possibly made of acacia, which in turn supported the structure’s roof. A single stone slab at the centre of each dwelling appears to have anchored the main wooden column, indicating a sophisticated understanding of weight distribution and structural support. Tools and animal remains found at the site suggest that the roofs were fashioned from animal hides.
Rebecca Foote, head of archaeology and cultural heritage research at the RCU, highlighted the significant impact of the commission’s archaeological initiatives. Under RCU’s supervision, the world’s most comprehensive archaeological program has provided crucial insights into the lives of Neolithic inhabitants in the region. Foote underscored the commission’s dedication to continued research, aiming to highlight AlUla’s diverse cultural heritage and establish it as a globally recognized hub for archaeological studies.
Evidence of a Robust Prehistoric Economy
Researchers examining animal bones from the Harrat Uwayrid site uncovered evidence of a robust prehistoric economy. The findings indicate reliance on a mix of domesticated animals like goats and sheep, and wild animals such as gazelles and birds. This diverse approach likely provided resilience against environmental fluctuations. Excavations also revealed tools linked to animal husbandry, such as implements for wool shearing and sheep slaughter.
Arrowheads discovered at the site match types used in southern and eastern Jordan, indicating regional interactions. Small perforated snails and seashells, likely used as decorative beads, were found at the sites, corresponding to shells from the Red Sea, suggesting import from the coast. Other artefacts include sandstone and limestone ornaments and bracelets, as well as a piece of red sandstone chalk, possibly used for drawing.