Work

A Salvage Archaeological Excavation at the Sasanian Site of Gatwa-sûr (erbil Province, Kurdistan Region of Iraq); a Newly Discovered Early Christian Burial in the Mountains of Soran

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The excavation of the site of Gatwa-sûr in the Zagros region of the Kurdistan region of Iraq has provided valuable insights into Early Christian burial practices in Northern Iraq during the Sasanian period. The discovery of an earthenware coffin adorned with symbols that highlight the presence of Christian oriented groups in the region provides new data on burial customs under Sasanian rule. This archaeological evidence strengthens our knowledge of the coexistence of different religious faiths within the Sasanian Empire. Despite the challenges posed by repeated disturbances to the burial site over ancient and modern times, the recovered skeletal remains offer crucial evidence for understanding the health, lifestyle, and demographic profile of individuals during this era. Anthropological analysis revealed common ailments such as tooth loss, degenerative osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, and infectious periostitis. Additionally, the presence of enthesopathies suggests engagement in strenuous physical activities, likely related to agricultural or manual labor. The interdisciplinary approach, involving archaeologists, residents, and media, has raised awareness about the importance of protecting archaeological sites and fostering community engagement in research endeavors. Overall, the Gatwa-sûr excavation contributes significantly to our understanding of religious, cultural, and social dynamics in the Kurdistan region of Iraq in Late Antiquity, emphasizing the need for further exploration and preservation efforts in the region.

Source: Iraq

DOI: 10.1017/irq.2025.10036

Authors: Francesc Xavier Garcia-Ramis, Alicia Gluitz, Aziz Zebari Mohamad, Abdulwahab Soliman, Anna Bach Gómez, Miquel Molist Montaña

Institutions: Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Salahaddin University-Erbil

Language: English

Topic: Archaeology and Historical Studies

Subfield: Archeology

Field: Arts and Humanities

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,550

Funders: Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación, Universitat de Barcelona, South African Pork Producers' Organisation, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona