Beta Samati: discovery and excavation of an Aksumite town. (December 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Harrower, Michael J.; Dumitru, Ioana A.; Perlingieri, Cinzia; Nathan, Smiti; Zerue, Kifle; Lamont, Jessica L.; Bausi, Alessandro; Swerida, Jennifer L.; Bongers, Jacob L.; Woldekiros, Helina S.; Poolman, Laurel A.; Pohl, Christie M.; Brandt, Steven A.; Peterson, Elizabeth A.
• Is Part Of: Antiquity. Volume 93:Number 372(2019)
• Page Start: 1534
• Page End: 1552
• Publication Date: 2019-12
• Subjects: Africa, -- Ethiopia, -- Aksum, -- ancient trade, -- ancient states; Archaeology -- Periodicals; Antiquities -- Periodicals; 930.05
• DOI: 10.15184/aqy.2019.84
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0003-598X

Abstract

Abstract: Abstract : The Empire of Aksum was one of Africa's most influential ancient civilisations. Traditionally, most archaeological fieldwork has focused on the capital city of Aksum, but recent research at the site of Beta Samati has investigated a contemporaneous trade and religious centre located between Aksum and the Red Sea. The authors outline the discovery of the site and present important finds from the initial excavations, including an early basilica, inscriptions and a gold intaglio ring. From daily life and ritual praxis to international trade, this work illuminates the role of Beta Samati as an administrative centre and its significance within the wider Aksumite world.