Excavations in Area C

This area lies to the east of Area B and northeast of Area A, the main residential part of the settlement. Area C comprises three low-rise mounds which are separated by shallow depressions. Unlike other areas of the site where superstructures are found, only traces of mud-brick walls are visible upon the surface in Area C. Hence, no distinct buildings or complexes can be determined easily. Preliminary examination of the ceramics found on the surface indicated that the occupation of this area may pre-date that of Area A and also be contemporary with the earliest development of the Main Temple of Tutu, in the mid-1st to early 2nd centuries CE.

In relation to C/2 of Area C, the results of the excavations confirmed that it was a domestic quarter in which light industrial activity also took place. This appears to have comprised pottery manufacture, iron smelting and possibly the manufacture of glass and faience. Textual data and the majority of the ceramics encountered indicate a period of use in the 2nd century, though some of the ceramic material may date to the Ptolemaic period.

Excavation in Progress

• Western Mound - C/1
• This part contains a large, multi-roomed structure that resembles the building complex which lies to the north of Structure 1 in Area B.
• Eastern Mound - C/2 Central
• Multi-roomed structures are located here, one of which contains a potters' workshop.
• Eastern Mound - C/2 East
• This part also contains multi-roomed structures that are similar to those found on the other mounds, but which reveal evidence for metal-working in the vicinity as well.
• Detailed Map of Area C