The Italian Archaeological Project in the Erbil Plain (2013-2017)

The project of the Italian Archaeological Expedition in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (MAIPE, University of Milan) focuses on the two sites of Helawa and Aliawa, located in the Erbil plain, c. 28 km south-west of Erbil. In 2013 and 2015 systematic surveys were carried out at both sites, so as to obtain chronological data and estimate the site’s extension by period. Excavations in 2016–2017 at Helawa threw further light on survey results, which indicated occupation spanning from the Hassuna to the Late Chalcolithic 3, with later re-occupation of the site in the 2nd millennium BC. Excavations on the top and southern slopes of the main mound (Area B) revealed a long Ubaid and LC 1–3 sequence, while in the north-eastern part of the site (Area D), the LC 3 phase was uncovered immediately below a late Middle/Late Bronze Age occupation. This evidence is discussed within a regional framework analysis, focusing on the developments and local trajectories in the Erbil Plain and more broadly in Northern Mesopotamia.