Excavations at Matariya (Tower 1147)

Abstract

Introduction and Background The Bronze Age monument known as Matariya -Frifelt's Tower (T.) 1147- is located just to the northeast of the modern village of Bat. Although Frifelt (2002a) recognized "1147" as a monumental feature like Kasr al-Rojoom, Kasr al-Khafaji, and the others in Bat, its less impressive appearance meant that it was never identified as a tower by local people. Instead, the tower's name, "Matariya," derives directly from its location rather than from its own distinct characteristics. Matariya is located less than 1 km from Kasr al-Khafaji (T. 1146) and 1.5 km from al-Rojoom, at 474952E 2572081N (UTM, WGS 1984). This chapter lays out the results of four seasons of excavation at Matariya (2008-11), including its Hafit period beginnings, its modifications through the Umm an-Nar period, its destruction phases, and its later reuse.