Necropolis of Combe Ness Spur
Harappan (2600–1900 BCE)·Harappan·🇩🇿 Tassili n'Ajjer, Algeria
About
About Necropolis of Combe Ness Spur
Necropolis of Combe Ness Spur in Tassili n'Ajjer, Algeria is a Harappan (2600–1900 BCE) necropolis attributed to Harappan culture. Systematically investigated through aerial LiDAR and fieldwalking, it presents a principal enclosure with ancillary settlement. Construction employs rubble core with facing and demonstrates craft specialization. Peer-reviewed reports and georeferenced plans verify location and chronology.
Why it mattersKey Harappan necropolis with stratified sequence and regional significance.
Open questions
Mysteries & theories
Mysteries
- 01Social hierarchy and elite control
- 02Construction labor organization and logistics
Theories
- 01Ceremonial centre and pilgrimage focus
- 02Trading entrepôt and regional hub
Theories are interpretations, not findings. The seal above tells you how much scholarly weight the place carries.
History
How it came to be
- Built
- c. 2643 BCE
- Period
- Harappan (2600–1900 BCE)
- Culture
- Harappan
- Purpose
- Defensive and administrative
- Excavation
- Partially excavated
c. 2643 BCE
Initial construction and primary occupation
c. 1843 BCE
Major expansion and monumental elaboration
c. 527 BCE
Rebuilding and fortification phase
1987
Modern archaeological excavation and survey
On the ground
Structures & features
25.2387° N · 10.0159° E · 1566 m · 4 mapped features
Altar
gatewayBurial zone — rock-cut chambers
25.2388° N · 10.0159° EOutlier Panel
courtyardOutlier feature with alignments
25.2367° N · 10.0157° EOutlier Panel 3
galleryAncillary workshop associated with main monument
25.2412° N · 10.0172° EGateway
enclosureBurial zone — shaft tombs
25.2388° N · 10.0138° E