Bestansur
Iraq

Bestansur

Neolithic tell in the Shahrizor Plain

Location

Explore the Map

Historical Context

About

Bestansur is a significant archaeological tell located in the Shahrizor Plain of Iraq, offering insights into various periods of human occupation. Initially settled during the Early Neolithic period, around 7600-7100 BCE, the site features mud-brick and pisé structures, including rectangular buildings and hearths, indicative of established habitation. The presence of numerous burials, including 72 individuals beneath a single room, underscores its importance as a residential and cultural center. The site's occupation extended into the Neo-Assyrian, Sasanian, and Ottoman periods, showcasing a long history of settlement and adaptation. Artifacts such as pottery fragments and textile imprints link Bestansur to broader Mesopotamian cultures, while its inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List highlights its significance in understanding ancient human societies in Upper Mesopotamia.

Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Visual Archive

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations

FileNear_East_non_political.png
FilePestle_and_mortar_found_inside_a_kiln_7800-7500_BCE._From_Bestansur_Sulaymaniyah_Iraq.jpg
FileThe_Neolithic_site_of_Bestansur_October_11_2021._Shahrizor_Plane_Sulaymaniyah_Iraqi_Kurdistan.jpg
Temporal Epochs

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's history

Neo-Assyrian Activity

Iron Age

Sasanian Occupation

224-651 CE

Ottoman Occupation

1500-1920 CE

Early Neolithic Occupation

7600-7100 BCE

Classification

Archaeological Features

Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

category

Burial and Funerary Structures

Graves
category

Domestic and Habitation Structures

Houses
category

Environmental and Natural Features

Artificial Mounds
category

Food Production and Processing Features

HearthsOvensButchering Areas
Knowledge Base

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore

Plan Your Visit

Tours, travel arrangements, and practical information

Reference

Details

Country

Iraq

Coordinates

35.38° N, 45.65° E