Meroitic Urbanism and Settlement Patterns in the ‘Island of Meroe’: Discoveries from (Hammadab), Kabushiya

Abstract

Hamadab is an archaeological site located 3 km south of Meroe City on the eastern bank of the Nile. It thrived during the Meroitic period, spanning from the 3rd century BC to the 4th century AD. Excavations began in 2000/2001 through a collaboration of Sudanese and German team, yielding significant discoveries such as monumental stelae and a bronze statuette depicting the Meroitic god Sebiumeker. Current research efforts include mapping the settlement, conducting stratigraphic excavations, and investigating Meroitic iron metallurgy. The site is named after the Jaaliyin family and the indigenous Dom palms, and it plays a vital role in enhancing our understanding of the daily lives of ordinary people within the Kingdom of Kush. While much research has focused on royal burials and temple constructions, information regarding the lives of common
citizens has remained limited. This research presents the findings from recent investigations at Hamadab, providing a comprehensive understanding of the non-elite population. It reveals important details about domestic quarters, family organization, diet, and material culture. The town primarily consisted of sun-dried mud brick—              a common building material in the region since ancient times—and featured architectural elements reminiscent of fortified settlements in Egypt and the Near East. However, the lack of evidence for military activity suggests that Hamadab served as a typical urban settlement rather than a military outpost.