Ancient Civilizations in the Arabian Gulf Unit 1

Ancient Civilizations in the Arabian Gulf Unit 1 Lesson 2

Cultural importance of Arabian Gulf • Arabian Gulf is where ancient civilizations of Dilmun, Majan and Umm an-Nar emerged. • Important strategic (geographical) location and could dominate trade routes. • It was the way some immigrants travelled from the south and east of the Gulf to the north.

Dilmun civilization • Mentioned in ancient writings, found in Mesopotamia. • Described as “land of eternity”, located where the sun rises. • Archeologists proved the center of this civilization was in current day Bahrain. • Dilmun played a mediation role between the civilizations of Mesopotamia, Indus and the Arabian Peninsula.

Dilmun civilization • It was famous for its pottery and seals for proving ownership. • It is said to have the biggest cemetery in the world.

Dilmun civilization

Majan civilization Ma = ship; jan = structure Based in current country of Oman and UAE. Built trade relations with Mesopotamia. Known for agriculture, production of copper and good wood to use in the building of ships. • Divided into 2 civilizations: • • o Umm an-Nar o Wadi al-Souq

Majan civilization

Umm an-Nar civilization • Located on island close to Abu Dhabi (UAE). • Found monuments from this civilization there. • Writings from Mesopotamia mentions these monuments as from Majan. • Found following at site: Houses, fishnets and pottery. • Known for copper industry. • Built trade relations with Mesopotamia and Dilmun civilizations.

Umm an-Nar civilization

Wadi al-Souq civilization • Located on coast of Arabian Sea; monuments found in Oman and UAE. • Famous for different types and shapes of pottery.