Beta Samati: discovery and excavation of an Aksumite town

Michael J. Harrower, Ioana A. Dumitru, Cinzia Perlingieri, Smiti Nathan, Kifle Zerue, Jessica L. Lamont, Alessandro Bausi, Jennifer L. Swerida, Jacob L. Bongers, Helina S. Woldekiros, Laurel A. Poolman, Christie M. Pohl, Steven A. Brandt, Elizabeth A. Peterson

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

27 Citations (SciVal)
16 Downloads (Pure)

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.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1534-1552
Number of pages19
JournalAntiquity
Volume93
Issue number372
Early online date10 Dec 2019
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Dec 2019

Cite this