Signpost (PDF 137K)
The first impact is with the evidence for the oldest strata so far excavated at Mozan – the fourth millennium. Immediately above we have the strata of the third, and then in turn those of the second millennium. In each case, structures and floor accumulations overlay each other – a span of many centuries bridged by a few centimeters in space.
It is an excellent opportunity to appreciate the value of sections as the most secure window onto these momentous juxtapositions.
Back to top
The clash of centuries (PDF 490K)
A wide view of a large section that cuts through the thick deposits accumulated over the centuries against the face of the revetment wall.
Back to top
The ancient perception (PDF 600K)
Visitors descend through a long staircase, some 8 meters below the modern ground level, to the the third millennium Plaza. The panels emphasize the importance of gaining the spatial perspective the ancients had. Together with a careful reading of the evidence in front of them, the visitors can recover the ancient perception of the built environment.
Back to top
Depositional history (PDF 313K)
A large single panel, affixed directly to a section, illustrates in greater detail our understanding of the depositional history that has been briefly outlined in the reading stand half way down the stairs. While still schematic, this section explains to visiting archaeologists our understanding of the overall stratigraphic sequence.
Back to top
Back at the beginning (PDF 644K)
Immediately below the third millennium revetment wall we found its earlier antecedent – older by another millennium. The evidence also speaks to the reasons for the changes introduced in the later version: they had learned from erlier experience how to protect themselves agsinst the flooding from the higher reaches of the ancient Terrace.
