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Nigeria

Katsina-Ala

Site with Nok culture terracotta statues

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

About

Katsina-Ala is an important archaeological site located in Benue State, Nigeria, notable for the discovery of terracotta statues linked to the Nok culture. These artifacts include realistic human heads and animal representations, believed to depict ancestors or spirits. The site's artifacts are stylistically similar to those found in Nok, suggesting a shared cultural origin. Bernard Fagg, a prominent archaeologist, identified a distinct sub-style in the artifacts from Katsina-Ala. Iron working at the site began in the 4th century BCE, indicating a developed metallurgical tradition. The presence of smelted tin beads, possibly imitating cowrie shells, further highlights the site's archaeological significance. Katsina-Ala offers valuable insights into the Nok culture and its artistic and technological advancements during the Early and Middle Iron Age.

Archaeological Features

Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

Artistic and Decorative Features

Statues

Historical Timeline

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

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Nigeria
Source
Wikipedia

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