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Sudan

Zuma, Sudan

Ancient tumuli field with distinct grave types.

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

Location

About

The Zuma (el-Zuma) site in Sudan is an archaeological site known for its burial ground featuring 29 grave mounds, or tumuli, indicative of the area's ancient funerary practices. Situated 25 miles downstream from Jebel Barkal and lying within the Napatan Region, the site is notable for its three distinct types of grave structures, highlighting a social hierarchy among those buried there. The most elaborate graves, featuring M-shaped underground burial shafts with multiple chambers, suggest a high status for the interred individuals. Though all the graves have been looted, evidence of pottery, beads, and metal fragments provides insight into the material culture of the period. Dating to the late 5th and early 6th centuries, the site offers valuable information about the social and cultural dynamics of Early Makuria. Zuma's significance was recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage site, underscoring its importance in understanding the region's archaeological landscape.

Archaeological Features

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

Burial and Funerary Structures

GravesCemeteriesFunerary Mounds

Historical Timeline

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

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Sudan
Source
Wikipedia