Thaj, Archaeological site in Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia.
Thaj is an ancient archaeological site in eastern Saudi Arabia with ruins spread across 40 hectares within a walled settlement. Excavations have revealed more than 1000 documented burial structures, forming a large necropolis that demonstrates the scale of this former city.
The settlement developed during the Hellenistic period following Alexander's conquest in 330 BC and remained active through the early Sasanian era as a key trading hub.
Burial practices visible in the excavated remains show how people organized their communities through different tomb types and burial areas. The ring-shaped tombs and designated spaces reveal details about social organization and everyday beliefs of the ancient inhabitants.
The site is located roughly 600 kilometers northeast of Riyadh and welcomes visitors interested in observing ongoing excavations and research about ancient Arabian settlements. Wear comfortable clothing and bring sun protection, as the terrain is open and exposure is significant.
Nine inscribed stones dating to the middle of the first millennium BC were discovered here, offering direct evidence of language development in ancient Arabia. These inscriptions rank among the oldest known written records from the region and help researchers understand early communication systems.
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