Uncovering a Hidden Neolithic Civilization in Morocco: Revealing North Africa’s Influence on Mediterranean Prehistory

A breathtaking aerial view captures the ‍Oued Beht ridge and river in vibrant ⁣colors, shedding light on a⁢ groundbreaking discovery. Archaeological exploration in Morocco has unveiled the earliest ‌farming society from a mysterious era of northwest African history.

Published today in Antiquity, this ⁤study unveils the pivotal role of the Maghreb region (northwest Africa) in shaping complex societies across the Mediterranean. ⁤Positioned at the crossroads of diverse landscapes⁤ – from a Mediterranean⁤ climate to bordering the ⁢Sahara desert – Maghreb emerges as a cultural hub⁢ fostering intercontinental connections.

Despite its significance during various historical periods, there⁤ remains a notable gap between 4000 ‍and 1000 BC regarding Maghreb’s archaeological narrative. ‌To bridge this knowledge void, Youssef Bokbot (INSAP), Cyprian Broodbank (Cambridge University), and Giulio Lucarini ‌(CNR-ISPC and‌ ISMEO) ⁣conducted ⁤collaborative fieldwork ‌at Oued Beht, Morocco.

Professor‌ Broodbank emphasizes, “For‌ over thirty years I have believed that Mediterranean⁤ archaeology lacked essential ‍insights into prehistoric ⁢North Africa. Now we can acknowledge Africans’ dynamic contributions⁣ to early Mediterranean societies.”

Date: 2024-09-23 19:15:02
Explore more about this discovery on phys.org