Jarmo

Jarmo is an archaeological site in Iraqi Kurdistan, nestled in the foothills of the Zagros Mountains at an altitude of 800 meters. This Neolithic village, spanning approximately 12,000 to 16,000 square meters, dates back to around 7090 BCE, with evidence of habitation until 4950 BCE. The site consists of about 25 adobe houses with stone foundations, indicating a permanent settlement of roughly 150 inhabitants. Jarmo is significant for its early evidence of agriculture, showcasing domesticated wheat, barley, and lentils, as well as animal husbandry with goats, sheep, and dogs. The presence of obsidian from Lake Van and ornamental shells from the Persian Gulf suggests early trade networks. Jarmo also boasts one of the earliest instances of pottery in Mesopotamia, along with clay figurines hinting at religious practices. The multidisciplinary approach used during the 1954-55 excavations set a precedent for future archaeological research methods.