Two Early Dynastic houses: living with the dead (Abu Salabikh Excavations, Volume 5 Part I)

This volume explores two Early Dynastic houses, detailing their architecture, intramural burials, and the daily lives of their inhabitants.

The fifth volume in the Abu Salabikh Excavations series provides a comprehensive examination of two significant domestic structures from the Early Dynastic III period in ancient Mesopotamia. Situated in the archaeological site of Abu Salabikh, located 15 kilometers north of Nippur in southern Iraq, this volume delves into the architectural features and the everyday life within these residences. Detailed illustrations accompany the text, offering readers a vivid glimpse into the living conditions of the time.

A notable aspect of this volume is its in-depth analysis of intramural burials found within the houses. The authors meticulously document the human osteology associated with these burials, shedding light on the burial practices and beliefs of the inhabitants. The integration of botanical, zoological, and micromorphological studies further enriches the understanding of the context in which these families lived and died, providing a holistic view of their environment.

Two Early Dynastic houses: living with the dead serves not only as an archaeological report but also as a narrative that connects the past with the present. It invites readers to consider the significance of domestic life and death in ancient societies, emphasizing the enduring relationship between the living and the deceased. This volume stands as a crucial contribution to the field of Near Eastern archaeology and enhances our comprehension of early urban life.