Tell el-Edge Ben
Ubaid (6500–3800 BCE)·Ubaid·🇲🇦 Souss-Massa, Morocco
About
About Tell el-Edge Ben
Tell el-Edge Ben in Souss-Massa, Morocco is a Ubaid (6500–3800 BCE) tell attributed to Ubaid culture. Systematically investigated through photogrammetry and stratigraphic excavation, it presents a fortified nucleus with hydraulic works. Construction employs rubble core with facing and demonstrates long-distance exchange. Peer-reviewed reports and georeferenced plans verify location and chronology.
Why it mattersKey Ubaid tell with stratified sequence and regional significance.
Open questions
Mysteries & theories
Mysteries
- 01Chronology and phasing of monuments
- 02Long-distance exchange networks
Theories
- 01Astronomical observatory and calendar
- 02Elite residence and administrative centre
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. 4605 BCE
- Period
- Ubaid (6500–3800 BCE)
- Culture
- Ubaid
- Purpose
- Ceremonial and settlement
- Excavation
- Excavation ongoing
c. 4605 BCE
Initial construction and primary occupation
c. 3805 BCE
Major expansion and monumental elaboration
c. 650 BCE
Rebuilding and fortification phase
1984
Modern archaeological excavation and survey
On the ground
Structures & features
30.3342° N · 8.6387° W · 2080 m · 4 mapped features
- Stela AlignmentcairnOutlier feature with standing stones30.3333° N · 8.6395° W
- Stela Alignment 2alignmentAncillary reservoir associated with main monument30.3319° N · 8.6391° W
- Rock Art PanelenclosureBurial zone — rock-cut chambers30.3329° N · 8.6382° W
- Enclosure WallentrancePrimary tell at Tell el-Edge Ben — rock-cut facade30.3362° N · 8.6409° W