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Tell Al Ubaid: Cradle of Mesopotamian Civilization

Explore Tell Al Ubaid, the namesake of the Ubaid period, and discover the roots of Mesopotamian civilization in southern Iraq.

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Tell Al Ubaid, an ancient archaeological site in the Dhi Qar Governorate of Iraq, is a relatively small tell that holds immense historical significance as the namesake of the Ubaid period. This Chalcolithic site, located a few kilometers west of Ur, offers a glimpse into the early development of Mesopotamian civilization.

A brief summary to Tell Al Ubaid

  • 1, Dhi Qar Governorate, IQ

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain, as the site is an archaeological zone.
  • Bring plenty of water and sun protection, as the area can be hot and exposed.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the site.
  • Respect the site and any ongoing archaeological work; avoid touching or removing artifacts.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Nasiriyah, the capital city of Dhi Qar Governorate, Tell Al Ubaid is approximately a 20-30 minute drive. Head west from Nasiriyah, following local roads towards Ur. As you approach Ur, look for signs directing you towards Tell Al Ubaid, which lies about 6 kilometers west of Ur. The final stretch may be on unpaved roads. Parking is generally available near the site. It's advisable to check with local authorities or tour operators for the latest road conditions and any travel advisories. Due to the site's remote location, taxis or private cars are the most practical options. A round-trip taxi fare from Nasiriyah might cost approximately $15-25 USD, depending on your negotiation skills.

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Discover more about Tell Al Ubaid

Tell Al Ubaid, situated in the Dhi Qar Governorate of Iraq, is an important archaeological site that provides insights into the Ubaid period, a crucial era in Mesopotamian prehistory. The site is a low, oblong mound, approximately 500 meters north to south and 300 meters east to west, rising only about 2 meters above the surrounding plain. Despite its modest size, Tell Al Ubaid is the type site for the Ubaid culture, which flourished from around 5500 to 3700 BC. Excavations at Tell Al Ubaid have revealed significant information about the Ubaid culture, including their distinctive pottery, architecture, and the emergence of complex social structures. The site was initially excavated in 1919 by Henry Hall, followed by Leonard Woolley and Pinhas Delougaz in later years. These excavations uncovered a temple dedicated to the goddess Ninhursag, built by A'annepada, a king of Ur around 2500 BC. The Ubaid period is characterized by the transition from small, dispersed communities to larger, more organized settlements. The Ubaid people were pioneers in agriculture, developing irrigation systems that allowed for surplus crop production and population growth. They also developed distinctive pottery styles, including painted and incised ceramics, and constructed the first public temples made of mud brick. While the Ubaid society appears to have been relatively egalitarian in its early phases, later periods saw the emergence of more complex social hierarchies. Visiting Tell Al Ubaid offers a unique opportunity to explore the origins of Mesopotamian civilization and to appreciate the achievements of the Ubaid people. Although the ruins on top of the temple are missing, the remains of the temple decoration, including friezes inlaid with stone and shell, and the great Imdugud panel, provide a glimpse into the site's rich history.

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