Four archaeological horizons show 2,000 years of continuous occupation and architectural evolution. Five archaeological horizons identified: H0 to H4 H0 Epipaleolithic phase dates 18,890-12,980 years ago (inconclusive) H1 dates 12,890-11,670 years ago
Tell Qaramel reveals FIVE main occupation phases spanning at least 2,000 years of continuous habitation. Architecture evolved from OVAL houses in earlier phases to RECTANGULAR ones later — over 60 dwellings found, each around 9-10 square meters with hard clay floors and low perimeter benches. Researchers consider it the most important pre-Pottery Neolithic site for studying how settlement layouts evolved over generations. The site shows remarkable continuity in community life across millennia.
Key Facts
- Five archaeological horizons identified: H0 to H4
- H0 Epipaleolithic phase dates 18,890-12,980 years ago (inconclusive)
- H1 dates 12,890-11,670 years ago
- H2 dates 12,670-11,250 years ago
- H3 dates 11,820-10,710 years ago
- H4 dates 11,310-10,780 years ago
- Continuous occupation for at least 2,000 years
- Construction evolved from oval in H1 and H2 to rectangular in H3
- Over 60 circular and oval houses found
- Dwellings 9-10 square meters with hard clay floors and low perimeter benches
- Site considered most important pre-Pottery Neolithic site for studying settlement evolution
Related site: Tell Qaramel — view location, images, and history on the Ancient Nerds map.
Source: 12,890-Years-Old! YOUNGER DRYAS Settlement of Tell Qaramel | Ancient Architects by Ancient Architects