Overview of Unit A15

Back to top: Overview of Unit A15

Physiognmy

The physiognomy of A15 is defined by the unique typology of some of the structural finds and by the modifications that these caused in the overall strategy.

Discovery of a series of above-ground tombs in A13 was evidence of a substantial Khabur settlement atop and east of the AP palace. A15 continued exposure of this settlement to the south. (Portions that may have existed to the west had been lost due to erosion of the hillside.)

During the excavation of the Khabur settlement, two large pit kilns were discovered, These were carefully excavated and documented at the end of the first season.

As excsvation coninued deeper, some walls and surfaces with Mittani ceramics were exposed, possiblely similar to structures in A9. These suggest that there was no break in occupation.

As the excavation proceeded to the west, we found the tops of several major walls which were south of the formal ccourtyard. These defined a reception area.

At the southern end of the unit, close to what may have been an exterior wall, we found a platform and a snall room filled with a variety of ceramic vessels. This probably marked a transition from formal reception to routine food preparation and storage