Tell al-'Ubaid, Archaeological site in Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq.
Tell al-'Ubaid is an archaeological mound in southern Mesopotamia measuring 350 meters long and 250 meters wide. This earthen mound, about 2 meters high, contains multiple layers of settlements that archaeologists uncovered through excavation, revealing different periods of occupation.
British archaeologists began excavations in 1919 and uncovered artifacts dating from 6500 to 3700 BCE. These findings revealed continuous human settlement in this region across many centuries, establishing a major phase of early Mesopotamian development.
The pottery displays geometric patterns and animal designs that reflect how early inhabitants decorated their everyday vessels. Walking through the finds, you can see the artistic choices they made and the skills they developed for creating these objects.
The mound is situated in an open area and remains relatively accessible, though the site offers little shelter from the elements. Visitors should come prepared for sun exposure and bring water, as the landscape provides minimal natural protection.
The name of this location was given to an entire prehistoric period of Mesopotamian history, becoming the reference point for studying early civilizations in the region. Archaeologists use the name to describe a whole era of human development when agriculture and permanent settlements first emerged.
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