Preface to Unit A6

For full bibliographical information see Front Matter.

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A16 in isolation

Unit A6 covers a relatively large area compared to other units within the palace and the service wing, containing more than 9 loci (5x5 squares) that reflect various functions over time. The earliest of these functions date back to the Akkadian period, as evidenced by the Tupkish Palace. In the northern part of the unit, there is sufficient evidence indicating that the area was used as a kitchen for the royal palace, as shown by the presence of fire installations, ceramics, and discovered seal impressions. Additionally, some deposits beneath one of the rooms reveal an earlier settlement dating back to the Early Dynastic III period, indicating a long-term occupation. The southern section of the unit contains several rooms associated with administrative and service activities. The unit exhibits continuous occupation over time, with two main phases identified in the Akkadian period: the reign of King Tupkish and his successor. This is clearly reflected in the royal seal impressions belonging to Queen Taram-Agade. Furthermore, the archaeological layers reveal graves and public activities dating to the Ur III and Isin-Larsa periods, extending up to around 1600 B.C., passing through the Khabur period. However, during these later phases, the unit served as an annex to another building and was no longer used for royal purposes