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Marsa Matruh, Egypt excavation records, 1983-2003 (inclusive)

Extent:

4.2 linear feet

Abstract:

Marsa Matruh, on the northwest coast of Egypt, has been the site of trade and commerce among ancient seafarers since the late Bronze Age. The records here represent three seasons of excavation undertaken by the University of Pennsylvania in 1985, 1987, and 1989 under the directorship of Dr. Donald White, as well as several subsequent surveys and study seasons in 1990, 1995, and 1996. The initial excavations centered on an island in a lagoon to the east of the city known locally as Island of the Jew, or Desert Island, since known to archaeologists as Bates’s Island (Area I), in honor of archaeologist Oric Bates, who first excavated here in 1913-1914. The focus of these excavations has been the Bronze Age artifacts, although many finds from later periods were documented during analysis. Additional excavation was also conducted on the nearby shore at eight locations (Areas II-IX). The 1990 to 1996 surveys included analysis of locations along the adjacent coast to determine possible...(see more)

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