Drilling is not boring : geoarchaeological research at Abu Tbeirah

This chapter presents the outcomes of the geo-archaeological research at the ancient Sumerian site of Abu Tbeirah, spanning from the third to the early second millennia bc. In collaboration with Sapienza University of Rome, the University of Qadisiyah, and Milano University, this study focuses on of the site’s urban water- management system, offering insights into Sumerian hydraulic engineering. Employing field analysis and satellite imagery, the research focuses on the natural channels surrounding the city, artificial canals, and water-related structures within the Tell. Additionally, the chapter delves into the site’s environmental context, elucidating the evolution of the palaeo-channel crossing Abu Tbeirah and its historical significance. Practical challenges encountered during fieldwork, and the solutions devised, are also highlighted. This research underscores the pivotal role of fluvial dynamics in shaping the city’s development and the ramifications of environmental adaptations on the settlement. Notably, the study reveals how the Sumerians leveraged natural elements such as river bends and oxbow lakes to engineer sophisticated water-management systems, facilitating urban expansion.