Iraq

Tell Shemshara

Ancient settlement with diverse occupation layers.

Location

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Historical Context

About

Tell Shemshara, also known as ancient Shusharra, is an archaeological site located along the Little Zab River in Iraqi Kurdistan. The site boasts a diverse occupation history from the Hassuna period in the early sixth millennium BCE to the 14th century CE. Significant finds include a Middle Bronze Age archive of cuneiform tablets, revealing the site's role as the capital of a small Turukkean polity ruled by Kuwari under a Hurrian state. The site features distinct layers of habitation, including a small palace, graves, and a town with evidence of domestic and industrial activities. Tell Shemshara's strategic location facilitated control over travel routes, contributing to its historical significance.

Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Temporal Epochs

Historical Timeline

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

Hassuna period occupation

early 6th millennium BCE

Middle Bronze Age re-occupation

early 2nd millennium BCE

Kuwari's rule as governor

first quarter of 18th century BCE

Islamic period occupation

12th-14th century CE

Classification

Archaeological Features

Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

category

Storage Structures

Storage Jars
category

Burial and Funerary Structures

Graves
category

Industrial and Craft Structures

Workshops
category

Domestic and Habitation Structures

TownsPalaces
Knowledge Base

Frequently Asked Questions

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Plan Your Visit

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Reference

Details

Country

Iraq

Coordinates

36.20° N, 44.94° E