2025

Analecta Papyrologica

Rocznik: 2025 | Tom: 40/2

artykuł naukowy

angielski

EN This article presents the results of a preliminary archaeologicalsurvey conducted along the Darb al-Ġubbārī, a caravan route linking Kharga and Dakhla oases south of Ǧabal Abū Ṭarṭūr. lthough less topographically challenging than the Darb ʿAyn ʿĀmūr, its chronology and archaeological remains have remained poorly understood. Fieldwork carried out in February 2009 identified and geolocated 27 caravan stations, with systematic recording of ceramics, petroglyphs, and inscriptions. The survey highlights settlement remains at ʿAyn Ḥusayn, likely the Kharga terminus of the route, including evidence of large-scale occupation, a funerary zone, and a small church possibly functioning as a funerary chapel. Along the track itself, cairns, road grooves, concentrations of pottery, and numerous rock art panels – dominated by zoomorphic and anthropomorphic figures spanning prehistoric to historic periods – provide insights into the long-term use of the route. Epigraphic finds include Greek, Coptic, and Arabic graffiti, notably rare attestations of Christian clergy and soldiers connected to Kysis, shedding light on the role of the road in Late Antiquity. Ceramic evidence indicates sustained use from the Roman through the early Arab periods, with a predominance of amphorae and water jars underlining the practical function of the route. The study underscores the Darb al-Ġubbārī’s significance for understanding caravan circulation, military presence, Christian communities, and symbolic practices in the Western Desert, while also highlighting threats posed by modern development.

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https://www.academia.edu/145611060/A_Preliminary_Archaeological_Survey_Along_the_Darb_al_%C4%A0ubb%C4%81r%C4%AB_Caravan_Road

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