Archaeological Breakthrough: Oldest Christian Building In Bahrain Found

Bahraini and British archaeologists have uncovered what is believed to be one of the oldest Christian structures in the Arabian Gulf, according to Bahrain News Agency (BNA). Located in Samahij, Muharraq, Kingdom of Bahrain, this discovery provides the first material evidence of an ancient Christian community in the region.

Radiocarbon dating has confirmed that the site was occupied from the mid-4th to mid-8th centuries CE. The building was likely abandoned as Islam spread among the local population around 610 CE. This finding challenges the common perception that Christianity had little presence in the Gulf states.

The excavation project began in 2019 and concluded with significant findings in 2023. It was a collaborative effort between the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities and a British team led by Professor Timothy Insoll from Exeter University and Dr. Salman Al Mahari from Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities.

Initial studies suggested that the site dated from the 6th to 8th centuries CE. However, radiocarbon dating confirmed its origin in the 4th century, making it one of the oldest Christian buildings in the Arabian Gulf. Recent discoveries include an Eastern cross on a plaster slab.

The site is unique because it is located in a modern, densely populated town, unlike previous Christian structures found in remote areas along the Gulf coast. Notable finds include three plaster crosses, two on the building's exterior and one possibly kept as a personal memento.

Artifacts found at the site suggest that its inhabitants enjoyed a good standard of living. They consumed meat, fish, shellfish, and various crops. The discovery of semi-precious agate beads and broken Indian pottery indicates trade connections with India.

Archaeological Insights

The building featured stone walls coated in plaster and plaster floors. Sockets and holes indicated door and seat placements. The kitchen contained built-in ovens with bases and storage areas. Small drinking glasses and 12 copper coins suggest currency use from the Sasanian Empire.

Professor Tim Insoll highlighted the importance of preserving this site due to its historical and archaeological value. He noted, "We stress the importance of this site and the need to preserve it, highlighting its historical and archaeological value."

Community Connections

Historical records indicate a connection between this region and central church authorities. One bishop was dismissed in 410 CE, while another was condemned for challenging church unity in the mid-7th century CE.

The findings suggest that this building may have been home to a bishop of the diocese that included Samahij. Historical sources refer to this area as "Mishmahig" or "Mashmahig," likely variations of "Samahij."

Cultural Artifacts

The excavation also revealed wall carvings featuring a fish symbol and part of the "Chi Rho" symbol representing Christ. Dr. Salman Al Mahari emphasised that these findings provide valuable insights into Bahraini history and Christian presence in the region.

Additionally, spindle whorls and copper needles hint at possible cloth production for religious purposes. Professor Tim Insoll added an interesting note: "We were amused to find someone had drawn part of a face on a pearl shell using bitumen, possibly for a child who lived in the building."

This discovery offers fascinating insights into how people lived, worked, and worshipped during that period. It stands as physical evidence of the Nestorian Church's presence in Bahrain.

With inputs from WAM