Bahrain’s archaeological team has struck gold or rather, stone and plaster, unearthing what might be one of the Gulf’s oldest Christian buildings. This ancient gem, dating back to the fourth century, provides a rare glimpse into the island’s Christian past, long before Islam took root.
Christian Roots Revealed At Samaheej, Bahrain
In a joint venture between Bahrain and the UK, archaeologists have discovered an eight-room building in Samaheej, a quaint village on Muharraq Island’s northern coast. This remarkable find, likely a bishop’s residence, was unearthed by teams led by Dr Salman Al Mahari of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities and Professor Timothy Insoll from Exeter University.
The dig, which kicked off in 2019, has finally yielded stunning results in 2023. Radiocarbon dating pinpoints the building’s active years between the mid-4th and mid-8th centuries CE, providing tangible evidence of a thriving Christian community in Bahrain. It’s like finding a dusty old letter in your attic revealing secrets about your ancestors!
The excavation team’s journey began with a mound in the Samahij cemetery, where they uncovered a mosque’s remnants from about 300 years ago. Digging deeper, they unearthed the Christian building—complete with a kitchen, dining room, workshop, and three living quarters. This discovery is particularly special as it’s located in a bustling, modern town, contrasting with previous finds that were isolated along the Gulf Coast.
Hidden Treasures And Daily Life
Among the fascinating finds are three plaster crosses, two on the building’s exterior and one possibly kept as a personal keepsake. The walls also feature carvings of a fish symbol and the “Chi Rho” symbol, hinting at the occupants’ religious beliefs.
The building’s structure includes stone walls coated in plaster and plaster floors, with evidence of doors and seating arrangements. The kitchen boasted built-in ovens and storage areas, suggesting a well-equipped household. Artefacts discovered such as semi-precious agate beads, broken Indian pottery, small drinking glasses, and 12 copper coins indicate a prosperous lifestyle and trade connections with India.
Additionally, spindle whorls and copper needles found at the site suggest possible cloth production, perhaps for religious garments. The daily life of the building’s occupants seemed rich and varied, with a diet that included meat, fish, shellfish, and a range of crops.
Also Read: World’s Oldest Bread: Archaeologists Find Bread Left Uncooked For 8,600 Yrs In Turkey; See Pics
Conclusion
This thrilling discovery in Bahrain is more than just a historical find; it’s a vibrant snapshot of a bygone era. The ancient Christian building not only enriches our understanding of early Christian settlements but also highlights Bahrain’s role in the historical tapestry of the Gulf. As excavation draws to a close, the insights gained will surely add a new chapter to Bahraini history, bridging past and present in the most unexpected of ways.
Cover Image Courtesy: Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities/ Instagram
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