Volumetric data (“topography”) for unit A16
Overall volumetric data

Back to top: Volumetric data ("topography") for unit A16 Overall volumetric data

Introduction

For our approach to volumetry see the relevant section in the Grammar.

Back to top: Volumetric data ("topography") for unit A16 Overall volumetric data

Size and volume of excavations

The area excavated in A16 is about 200 squared meters, that make it a medium size excavation with respect to Tell Mozan standards. A16 can be divided in an Upper and Lower portions. Not far from the Tell surface many Khabur structures (rooms and burials) were found, making the excavation difficult. Then we decided to try to go further down (in order to reach the Palace AK level) and investigate the lower levels. So the western 4 squares (k1, k2, k5 and k6) were excavated to a deeper level, forming Lower A16. Here the stone pavement of the Palace courtyard was reached at an elevation of 8490 in absolute elevation, about 6 meters down from the higher point of the tell surface in k2 or k6. We need to remember that the tell surface in A16 forms a very steep slope from east to west (visible in w41 or v1a) with about 4.50 meters difference in level.

It seems plausible that the entire volume excavated in A16 counts approximately 830 cubic meters. It is a notable amount for a two seasons excavation. Moreover because of the complex stratigraphy and the finds’ typology (many structures, pit and burials).