Publications
Provenance of the Basalt Blocks from the Edict of Anastasius at Qasr al-Hallabat (Jordan): Archaeometry Application of Petrological Techniques and Archaeological Implications
A comprehensive petrological analysis confirms that the basalt blocks bearing fragments of the Anastasius Edict, reused at Qasr al-Hallabat in Jordan, originated from quarries near Umm el-Jimal. Using advanced techniques such as X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), researchers compared samples from Qasr al-Hallabat with those from Umm el-Jimal's buildings and quarries, supporting the hypothesis that these blocks were transported approximately 20 km. This finding sheds light on the logistics of Roman defense reorganization in the 5th century CE and the reuse of materials in later constructions during the 6th century.
Ancient residential Buildings in the northern Jordanian Badia, an archaeological and architectural study
Ancient residential buildings in the northern Jordanian Badia exhibit architectural features reminiscent of Islamic and Byzantine styles, revealing a distinct yet regionally consistent design. These structures, found across sites like Umm el-Jimal and Sama al-Sarhan, share common traits while maintaining unique individual characteristics. The research identifies similarities with Horan-area designs, suggesting cultural or functional parallels. Using a historical descriptive analytical approach, the study catalogs building materials, shapes, and architectural elements, providing insight into the region's historical settlement patterns.
Extracting sustainable design strategies for hot arid regions from vernacular desert architecture: a case study of Jordan
Vernacular desert architecture in Jordan's arid regions offers valuable sustainable design strategies that can address modern challenges such as urbanization and limited agricultural land. The study identifies three key levels of sustainability: strategic site selection, meticulous planning for resource access (water, food, microclimate), and building designs that balance environmental, functional, and social needs. By analyzing historical settlements like Jawa and Umm el-Jimal, the research highlights how ancient practices can inform contemporary urban development in hot arid environments. Collaboration among stakeholders and further research are recommended to fully leverage these insights for sustainable growth.
Reconstructing the Chronology of Building the Southwest Church of Umm El-Jimal, Jordan by AMS Radiocarbon Dating of Mortar and Plaster
A groundbreaking study reconstructs the chronology of the Southwest Church at Umm Al-Jimāl, Jordan, using AMS radiocarbon dating of mortar and plaster samples. The research reveals that the church's flooring and plastering likely occurred between 594–643 AD, with its final collapse dating to no earlier than 995–1154 AD. Notably, preparatory layers and the north wall's base suggest earlier construction phases, possibly from the late fifth–early sixth century AD. The study also identifies a consistent mortar recipe, comprising lime binder, organic (charcoal), and inorganic inclusions (quartz, grog, volcanics), which remained unchanged throughout the church's building stages. This finding provides critical insights into the architectural evolution and material practices of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Frontier of Settlement in Roman Arabia: Gerasa to Umm el-Jimal ... and beyond
Research reveals that the transition between settled and nomadic landscapes in Roman Arabia was more complex than previously understood, with significant archaeological evidence bridging urban centers like Gerasa and steppe towns such as Umm el-Jimal. The study integrates fieldwork data from northern Jordan, demonstrating that permanent settlement extended further into marginal desert regions than typically assumed, challenging the binary 'desert vs. sown' narrative. By analyzing spatial patterns across 85 kilometers of terrain—spanning urban, steppe, and desert zones—the research highlights the resilience of Roman-era settlements in arid environments, offering new insights into the adaptability of ancient societies on the frontier.
Theological Literacy in the Late Ancient Near East: Liturgical Catechesis and the Not-So-Simple Christian Believers of Roman Arabia
Contrary to the long-held assumption that rural Christians in Roman Arabia were theologically illiterate, archaeological evidence from sites like Umm Al-Jimāl reveals a high density of churches and robust participation in Christian worship, suggesting deep communal investment and doctrinal engagement. This study challenges the notion of 'simple believers' by analyzing liturgical texts and hymns, demonstrating that theological formation was rooted in embodied, participatory practices rather than written instruction. By shifting focus from patristic sources to archaeological and liturgical data, it presents a dynamic portrait of late antique Near Eastern Christianity, where even unlettered communities were active and doctrinally aware participants.
The chronology of Julianos Church, Umm el‐Jimal, Jordan: AMS radiocarbon dates of its synthronon
New radiocarbon dating of Julianos Church’s synthronon at Umm Al-Jimāl, Jordan, resolves longstanding debates on its chronology. The analysis confirms that the church underwent a high-quality renovation in the late sixth century (565–607 AD), while its original mosaic floor likely dates to the second half of the fifth century (465–507 AD). This challenges earlier claims suggesting an earlier construction date, aligning instead with regional archaeological evidence. By examining organic inclusions from mortar samples—including pavement, bench tiers, and throne steps—the study provides precise dating that supports a phased development model for this significant early Christian site.
The Roman army in Provincia Arabia: Old and new documents from Umm al-Jimāl (Jordan)
Two newly discovered epigraphic documents from Umm al-Jimāl, Jordan, shed light on the Roman military presence in Provincia Arabia. The first, a Greek dedication to Zeus Keraunios under the Severi dynasty, and the second, a Latin inscription detailing the construction of a tower under Flavius Maximinus, provide critical insights into the region's military history from 106 CE to the reign of Justinian (527-565 CE). These findings contribute to understanding the dynamics between soldiers, villagers, and nomads in the limes Arabicus. The study combines epigraphic analysis with historical context to reconstruct the Roman army's role and interactions in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
An edition of new Nabataean inscriptions from Umm al-Jimāl
Recent discoveries at Umm Al-Jimāl, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Jordan's north-eastern Badia, have uncovered six new Nabataean inscriptions. These inscriptions, carved in the square or monumental script, represent a significant addition to the known corpus of Nabataean epigraphy. The findings provide valuable insights into the language and culture of the Nabataeans, a people renowned for their architectural and artistic achievements during the Roman period. The study, conducted by al-Zoubi, al-Manaser, and Hazza (2022), contributes to the broader understanding of Nabataean civilization through meticulous documentation and analysis of these newly discovered texts.
Engineering the reconstruction of Hawrān’s Ecclesiae during late antiquity: case of Julianos church in Umm el-Jimal, Jordan
Researchers have uncovered novel engineering techniques used in the construction of early Byzantine churches in the Hawrān region, challenging traditional stylistic interpretations. Focusing on Julianos Church in Umm el-Jimal, Jordanthe study reveals that the apsidal zone's roofing structure was uniquely adapted to local basalt materials and seismic conditions, diverging from classical prototypes. Using historical evidence, digital 2D/3D reconstructions, and structural analysis, the team demonstrated how builders innovatively addressed material constraints while ensuring stability. This work underscores the need for a balanced approach in future reconstructions, integrating both stylistic and engineering perspectives to preserve Hawrān's ancient Christian heritage accurately.
Ancient masonry structures within an integrated approach: the reinforced corbelled flat roofs of Umm el-Jimal
A novel approach to understanding the stability of ancient masonry structures, particularly those with reinforced corbelled flat roofs, has been proposed. This study challenges traditional theories by integrating material properties, geometric design, and construction techniques into a unified framework. Using Umm el-Jimal in Jordan as a case study—where basalt stone is the sole building material—the research demonstrates how diverse corbelling methods contribute to structural reinforcement and stability. The findings suggest that this integrated 'material-geometry-construction' approach can provide deeper insights into historical engineering practices, potentially advancing contemporary structural theories.
Lime mortar and plaster from the house XVII-XVIII, UMM El-Jimal, Jordan: Archaeometric analysis
Ancient craftsmen at Umm el-Jimal, Jordan, used innovative techniques to create durable lime-based cement materials for construction during the Byzantine era. The study reveals that hydraulic properties were achieved by incorporating natural scoria and recycled pottery fragments into the mortar and plaster. Notably, charcoal addition in some samples resulted in grey coloring, while others maintained a white-beige hue due to straws, bones, and higher amounts of scoria and ceramic. These findings highlight the sophisticated understanding of material science among ancient builders, who likely produced lightweight, porous cement through strategic aggregate-binder ratios and fiber reinforcement.
Lime Mortar and Plaster from the House XVII-XVIII, Umm El-Jimal, Jordan: Archaeometric Analysis
Ancient craftsmen at Umm el-Jimal, Jordan, employed a sophisticated technique for creating lime-based mortar and plaster with hydraulic properties by incorporating natural scoria and recycled pottery fragments. Archaeometric analysis of samples from House XVII-XVIII revealed that the addition of charcoal in some cases produced grey-colored materials, while others retained their characteristic white-beige hue due to straws, bones, and higher amounts of scoria and ceramic. The study suggests that the grain size distribution and binder-aggregate ratios remained consistent across these variations, indicating a deliberate approach to material composition. This research sheds light on advanced construction practices in Byzantine-era Jordan, demonstrating the ingenuity of ancient builders in producing lightweight, porous cement materials.
An Arab Chariot Monument at Umm al-Jimāl
Research at Umm al-Jimāl, Jordan, reveals previously unpublished basalt sculptures from a Nabataean-Roman to Byzantine settlement, offering new evidence of Hellenistic-Romanized embellishment in an Arab-Nabataean sanctuary. The fragments, dated to the first or second century AD, depict chariot groups driven by deities, paralleling similar statuary found in the nearby basalt desert of al-Ledjā (ancient Trachonitis). Analysis of these remnants suggests they were part of a larger sculptural complex likely destroyed during the Palmyrenean Campaign in the later third century AD. The study combines archaeological investigation with comparative analysis to reconstruct the sanctuary's significance and cultural context, bridging gaps in our understanding of this understudied region.
Archaeology, Epigraphy, Philology
Research at Umm Al-Jimāl, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Jordan, reveals complex and interconnected forms of cairn burial practices spanning millennia. Excavations in the Jebel Qurma region demonstrate that Early Bronze Age cemeteries were later replaced by tower tombs and conical ring cairns during the Hellenistic and Byzantine periods, with recurring reuse of tombs indicating their enduring significance for both the deceased and living communities. Additionally, Umm el-Jimal's architecture, including pioneering water systems and densely packed churches, suggests its role as a key hub for hospitality along historic trade routes from Petra to Damascus. The study combines archaeology, epigraphy, and philology to uncover these insights.
Travel and Hospitality in Late Antiquity: A Case Study from Umm el-Jimal in Eastern Jordan
Umm el-Jimal, a late-antique site in eastern Jordan, offers a unique glimpse into the travel and hospitality industry of over 1,700 years ago. This study reveals that the city was strategically designed to accommodate travelers along the Petra-Damascus trade route, with its architecture—featuring courtyard houses—and pioneering water infrastructure supporting a thriving subsistence economy in an otherwise resource-scarce region. The presence of eighteen churches in a small area suggests they also served as waystations for visitors, highlighting the site's dual role in both hospitality and religious function. The research combines architectural analysis, ethnography, and archaeological synthesis to reconstruct this aspect of late-antique life.
Umm el‐Jimal cathedral, Jordan: inscriptions and radiocarbon dates
Radiocarbon dating of organic inclusions from the mortar of Umm el-Jimal cathedral's apse confirms that an inscription found on its floor dates to AD 556, aligning with the Bostra calendar and validating previous stylistic and architectural dating. The study used X-ray diffraction and microscopic analyses to characterize the lime-based, ashy mortar with high charcoal content, supporting the conclusion that the cathedral's construction fits a broader trend of increased church-building activity in northeast Jordan between AD 550 and 650.
Production Technology Of Glass Bracelet From The West Cemetery Of Umm El-Jimal In Northeastern Jordan
A study on glass bracelets from the West Cemetery of Umm Al-Jimāl, Jordan, reveals that these artifacts, likely of Islamic origin, were produced using a mix of natron and plant-ash glassmaking techniques. The research employed SEM-EDX analysis to examine 20 fragments, finding that some bracelets incorporated recycled older glass and metal by-products as colorants. Decorative colors like red, white, and yellow-green were achieved through the dispersion of micron-scale copper crystals, tin oxide, and lead-tin oxides in the glass melt. This study sheds light on the sophisticated production technologies and material reuse practices prevalent during the period.
Use of Lightweight Lime Mortar in the Construction of the West Church of Umm el-Jimal, Jordan: Radiocarbon Dating and Characterization
Radiocarbon dating of the West Church at Umm el-Jimal, Jordan, reveals its construction dates to the Late Roman–Early Byzantine periods (5th–6th centuries CE), contradicting earlier archaeological estimates. The study also identifies the use of lightweight lime mortar in the church's dome, characterized by hydraulic properties and scoria sourced from the nearby Quais volcanic cone. Researchers analyzed mortar samples using accelerator mass spectrometry, X-ray diffraction, petrographic microscopy, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, and scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy to confirm the mineralogical and chemical composition of the scoria, supporting its local origin due to similarities in features and proximity.
Hands-On Heritage! Establishing Soft Authority over Heritage through Architectural Experiment: A Case Study from Jordan
A groundbreaking approach to heritage engagement, 'heritage as practice,' challenges traditional preservation paradigms by treating heritage sites as dynamic sources of inspiration and creativity. This study demonstrates that architectural experimentation can empower individuals—particularly students—to develop a 'soft authority' over heritage through instinctual, creative interpretation rather than formal authorization. The research involved architecture students analyzing Umm el-Jimal in Jordan, producing 'creative material' that was further re-created during community engagement exercises. The findings suggest that this shift from authorized to informed, instinctual engagement not only fosters a deeper connection with heritage but also validates authority through continuous creative reinterpretation, offering a novel model for heritage education and participation.
Soil development in the context of historical land use of northern Jordan
Research at Umm Al-Jimāl, northern Jordan, reveals a correlation between historical human activity and soil properties, offering new insights into ancient landscape dynamics. By surveying material culture scatters on agricultural fields alongside plant-available phosphate levels near the sites of Abila and Umm el-Jimal, scientists found evidence linking past activities to periods of landscape change. Initial findings suggest that level plateaus in the region may be old and stable, while soil creep appears to occur at their edges. This approach holds promise for reconstructing ancient agricultural practices and understanding long-term environmental transformations.
Reconstructing the Chronology of the House XVII-XVIII Complex at Umm el-Jimal, East Jordan: Radiocarbon Dates of Organic Inclusions of Architectural Mortars
Radiocarbon dating of organic inclusions from the House XVII-XVIII Complex at Umm el-Jimal, East Jordan, reveals that the structure was likely constructed or plastered during the middle Byzantine period. This finding aligns with historical and archaeological evidence indicating Umm el-Jimal's flourishing population during this time, suggesting the house was built to accommodate the growing demand for housing. The study utilized accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) to date fine straws and charcoal fragments embedded in preserved architectural lime mortars and plasters, providing a non-invasive method to refine the site's chronology without extensive excavation.
Archaeology and Community in Jordan and Greater Syria: Traditional Patterns and New Directions
This study challenges the long-standing stereotype of archaeology as a discipline disconnected from local communities, particularly in the Levant. It reveals that while historical practices often prioritized Western scientific expertise over community engagement, there is an emerging trend toward greater inclusion and collaboration. The research focuses on the Umm el-Jimal Project as a case study to illustrate this shift, highlighting how modern archaeology can bridge the gap between expert-driven exploration and local development. By examining traditional patterns and new directions, the study offers an optimistic perspective on the future of community-integrated archaeological practices.
New Nabataean Inscriptions from Umm El-Jimal Area, Jordan
A recent analysis of Nabataean tombstones from the Umm el-Jimal area, Jordan, reveals a significant correlation between Nabataean, Safaitic, and Arabic proper names with their Greek counterparts. This discovery, based on three newly discovered inscriptions dated to the first half of the second century AD, provides fresh insights into the linguistic and cultural interactions in the region during that period. The study contributes to the existing body of knowledge on Nabataean inscriptions from Southern Hauran and Umm el-Jimal, enhancing our understanding of the historical and linguistic landscape of the area.
A Revised Reading of a Nabataean Inscription from Umm Al-Jimal
A revised interpretation of a Nabataean inscription from Umm Al-Jimāl challenges previous readings, offering new insights into the language and culture of the ancient Nabataeans. The study focuses on line two of an inscription analyzed by S. Said and M. al-Hamad (2003), proposing alternative translations that refine understanding of the text's historical context. By employing epigraphic analysis and comparative linguistic methods, the authors demonstrate how re-evaluating ambiguous or poorly preserved inscriptions can yield significant advancements in deciphering Nabataean script and semantics. This work contributes to ongoing efforts to reconstruct the epigraphic corpus of Umm Al-Jimāl, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its Nabataean heritage.
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