Al-Shona Excavations Shed Light On Jeddah’s Rich Historical Tapestry

Jeddah, SPA – In a significant development for the preservation and understanding of Jeddah's historical landscape, the Jeddah Historic District Program has unveiled findings from archaeological excavations at Al-Shona. This initiative, part of the first phase of the Archaeology Project in Historic Jeddah, sheds light on the evolution of this urban core over centuries. The discoveries at Al-Shona offer insights into the architectural and functional transformations that the site has undergone, particularly highlighting its role during various historical periods.

The fortified structure unearthed at Al-Shona is estimated to have been erected between the 9th and 10th centuries AH (15th and 16th centuries AD), marking it as a construction from the latter part of the Mamluk era. Evidence such as a fortified corner tower and an assortment of four iron and one stone cannonballs suggest that the site likely functioned as an armory or military garrison. Additionally, fragments of Chinese fine porcelain dating back to the 12th–13th century AH (18th–19th century AD) were found, indicating the building's use as a government warehouse for storing essential supplies like grain, timber, and ammunition.

By the 20th century, the building's purpose had shifted to serve as a private merchant’s warehouse, accommodating imported goods from across the globe. This transition underscores Jeddah's pivotal role in international trade networks, bridging Asian and European markets. The artifacts recovered from Al-Shona are set to undergo restoration processes before being made available for public viewing, offering a tangible connection to Jeddah's rich trading and cultural history.

The Archaeology Project in Historic Jeddah commenced in Jumada I, 1441 AH (January 2020 AD), with preliminary exploratory studies and geophysical surveys aimed at uncovering archaeological remains beneath four historic sites. These include Othman bin Affan Mosque, Al-Shona, a segment of the Northern Wall, and Al-Kidwah. The project represents a critical step towards preserving Jeddah's historical heritage and providing deeper insights into its past through archaeological research.

The findings from Al-Shona not only enrich our understanding of Jeddah’s historical significance but also highlight the city’s evolving role through different eras. From its strategic military utility to its vital function in global trade networks, Al-Shona embodies the dynamic history of Jeddah. The ongoing archaeological efforts promise to further unravel the mysteries of this historic city, offering new perspectives on its development over centuries.

With inputs from SPA