Largest known Natufian structure, 14m oval, identified at Wadi Hammeh 27. Structure 2 at Wadi Hammeh 27 is the largest known Natufian structure ever discovered The oval structure measures 14m north-south by 11m east-west It is built with three concentric walls set around a central pile of at least 10 large limestone boulders
Structure 2 at Wadi Hammeh 27 is the largest known Natufian building ever discovered — a 14m by 11m oval enclosed by three concentric dry-built limestone walls around a central pile of at least 10 large boulders. Mud was used as mortar in places, the interior floor sat roughly 30cm lower behind a pre-cut step, and circular stone-packed niches around the perimeter likely held posts. Inside, hearths and workstations point to cooking and toolmaking.
Key Facts
- Structure 2 at Wadi Hammeh 27 is the largest known Natufian structure ever discovered
- The oval structure measures 14m north-south by 11m east-west
- It is built with three concentric walls set around a central pile of at least 10 large limestone boulders
- The structure is dry-built from undressed limestone with some travertine, siltstone, and broken basalt artifacts incorporated
- Mud was used as mortar in places to increase wall stability
- The interior floor was set down approximately 30cm with a pre-cut step and low terrace wall
- Circular niches packed with small stones along the outer perimeter wall served as post supports
- Hearths, fireplaces, workstations, and smaller post holes were found inside indicating cooking and artifact manufacturing
Source: 3,000 Years OLDER Than Göbekli Tepe: 14,500-Year-Old Largest Natufian Enclosure by Ancient Architects