Overview

A general overview of the A16 phases is given in the introduction to the A16 digital book.

A more detailed overview is given in the integrative section under depositional history.

In this section one will find a summary of the data for each the individual phases, which are brefly summarized in what follows.

The earliest attested features from A16 date to Phase 4^AAH. The earliest preserved remains are dated to Phase 4j^AAH when the paved courtyard was constructed. Earlier occupations are suggested by the EDIII sealings (Phase 4c^AAH) found near the pits that cut through thePhase 4j^AAH pavement. Additionally, baked bricks below the pavement may either be contemporary with the construction of the pavement or may represent an earlier construction (alternatively dated to phase 4f^AAH). During Phase 4 the pavement was constructed (Phase 4j^AAH), then kept clean while in use preventing any build-up or accumulation (Phase 4k^AAH), before finally being re-used for non-Palace related activites (Phase 4m^AAH).

In Phase 5 the Palace is no longer used as a structure and begins to collapse. Phase 5c^AAH represents the first collapse and reshaping after the abandonment of the Palace. During this phase accumulations, particularly of the bricky material of the Palace walls, begins to build up. Toward the middle of Phase 5, during Phase 5h^AAH, the area begins to be used for small pits and burials, some of which cut through the earlier pavement. Scatterd occupations including pebble lenses and tannurs are found across the area.

During Phase 6 the area continues to be used for dumping and numerous pits are constructed. Intermixed with the pits and dumping are several burials. There are three sub-phases indicated in the remains. Phase 6c^AAH represents the earliest phases of dumping and some small pits burials. In the subsequent phase, Phase 6h^AAH, several burials are constructed. In the following phase, Phase 6m^AAH, small house tumuli burials are constructed before the area is eventually abandoned. The end of Phase 6 is marked by the Phase 6s^AAH brickfall which covers the area effectively sealing the Phase 6 remains.

After the brickfall, the only remains are dated to modern periods and topsoil, all subsumed under Phase 9^AAH.