Archaeologists have discovered a 4,000-year-old town hidden within a lush oasis in present-day Saudi Arabia, highlighting the transition from a nomadic to urban lifestyle in the region.
The town, Al-Natah, remained a secret within Khaybar’s walled oasis—a fertile enclave surrounded by arid desert.
The discovery, led by French archaeologist Guillaume Charloux and his team, included a 14.5-kilometer wall. These ancient barriers encircled a residential area, providing tangible evidence of organized settlement, according to a recent study.
Dating back to around 2400 BCE during the early Bronze Age, Al-Natah is believed to have housed nearly 500 people, emphasizing its importance in the historical landscape. The findings reveal significant insights into the social and architectural developments of the time and mark a pivotal shift toward urbanization in this part of the Arabian Peninsula.
The study’s authors noted, “Preliminary archaeological surveys and soundings have revealed a fortified 2.6-hectare town built around 2400-2000 BCE, lasting until at least 1500 BCE, possibly 1300 BCE, though potentially with interruptions. It was functionally divided into residential areas, a likely decision-making zone, and a necropolis.
Archaeologists Discover 4,000-Year-Old Ancient Town ‘Al-Natah’ in Saudi Arabian Oasis world-news World News | Latest International News | Global World News | World Breaking Headlines Today
