Publications
Provenance of the Basalt Blocks from the Edict of Anastasius at Qasr al-Hallabat (Jordan): Archaeometry Application of Petrological Techniques and Archaeological Implications
A comprehensive petrological analysis confirms that the basalt blocks bearing fragments of the Anastasius Edict, reused at Qasr al-Hallabat in Jordan, originated from quarries near Umm el-Jimal. Using advanced techniques such as X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), researchers compared samples from Qasr al-Hallabat with those from Umm el-Jimal's buildings and quarries, supporting the hypothesis that these blocks were transported approximately 20 km. This finding sheds light on the logistics of Roman defense reorganization in the 5th century CE and the reuse of materials in later constructions during the 6th century.
Ancient residential Buildings in the northern Jordanian Badia, an archaeological and architectural study
Ancient residential buildings in the northern Jordanian Badia exhibit architectural features reminiscent of Islamic and Byzantine styles, revealing a distinct yet regionally consistent design. These structures, found across sites like Umm el-Jimal and Sama al-Sarhan, share common traits while maintaining unique individual characteristics. The research identifies similarities with Horan-area designs, suggesting cultural or functional parallels. Using a historical descriptive analytical approach, the study catalogs building materials, shapes, and architectural elements, providing insight into the region's historical settlement patterns.
Extracting sustainable design strategies for hot arid regions from vernacular desert architecture: a case study of Jordan
Vernacular desert architecture in Jordan's arid regions offers valuable sustainable design strategies that can address modern challenges such as urbanization and limited agricultural land. The study identifies three key levels of sustainability: strategic site selection, meticulous planning for resource access (water, food, microclimate), and building designs that balance environmental, functional, and social needs. By analyzing historical settlements like Jawa and Umm el-Jimal, the research highlights how ancient practices can inform contemporary urban development in hot arid environments. Collaboration among stakeholders and further research are recommended to fully leverage these insights for sustainable growth.
Reconstructing the Chronology of Building the Southwest Church of Umm El-Jimal, Jordan by AMS Radiocarbon Dating of Mortar and Plaster
A groundbreaking study reconstructs the chronology of the Southwest Church at Umm Al-Jimāl, Jordan, using AMS radiocarbon dating of mortar and plaster samples. The research reveals that the church's flooring and plastering likely occurred between 594–643 AD, with its final collapse dating to no earlier than 995–1154 AD. Notably, preparatory layers and the north wall's base suggest earlier construction phases, possibly from the late fifth–early sixth century AD. The study also identifies a consistent mortar recipe, comprising lime binder, organic (charcoal), and inorganic inclusions (quartz, grog, volcanics), which remained unchanged throughout the church's building stages. This finding provides critical insights into the architectural evolution and material practices of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Frontier of Settlement in Roman Arabia: Gerasa to Umm el-Jimal ... and beyond
Research reveals that the transition between settled and nomadic landscapes in Roman Arabia was more complex than previously understood, with significant archaeological evidence bridging urban centers like Gerasa and steppe towns such as Umm el-Jimal. The study integrates fieldwork data from northern Jordan, demonstrating that permanent settlement extended further into marginal desert regions than typically assumed, challenging the binary 'desert vs. sown' narrative. By analyzing spatial patterns across 85 kilometers of terrain—spanning urban, steppe, and desert zones—the research highlights the resilience of Roman-era settlements in arid environments, offering new insights into the adaptability of ancient societies on the frontier.
Theological Literacy in the Late Ancient Near East: Liturgical Catechesis and the Not-So-Simple Christian Believers of Roman Arabia
Contrary to the long-held assumption that rural Christians in Roman Arabia were theologically illiterate, archaeological evidence from sites like Umm Al-Jimāl reveals a high density of churches and robust participation in Christian worship, suggesting deep communal investment and doctrinal engagement. This study challenges the notion of 'simple believers' by analyzing liturgical texts and hymns, demonstrating that theological formation was rooted in embodied, participatory practices rather than written instruction. By shifting focus from patristic sources to archaeological and liturgical data, it presents a dynamic portrait of late antique Near Eastern Christianity, where even unlettered communities were active and doctrinally aware participants.
The chronology of Julianos Church, Umm el‐Jimal, Jordan: AMS radiocarbon dates of its synthronon
New radiocarbon dating of Julianos Church’s synthronon at Umm Al-Jimāl, Jordan, resolves longstanding debates on its chronology. The analysis confirms that the church underwent a high-quality renovation in the late sixth century (565–607 AD), while its original mosaic floor likely dates to the second half of the fifth century (465–507 AD). This challenges earlier claims suggesting an earlier construction date, aligning instead with regional archaeological evidence. By examining organic inclusions from mortar samples—including pavement, bench tiers, and throne steps—the study provides precise dating that supports a phased development model for this significant early Christian site.
The Roman army in Provincia Arabia: Old and new documents from Umm al-Jimāl (Jordan)
Two newly discovered epigraphic documents from Umm al-Jimāl, Jordan, shed light on the Roman military presence in Provincia Arabia. The first, a Greek dedication to Zeus Keraunios under the Severi dynasty, and the second, a Latin inscription detailing the construction of a tower under Flavius Maximinus, provide critical insights into the region's military history from 106 CE to the reign of Justinian (527-565 CE). These findings contribute to understanding the dynamics between soldiers, villagers, and nomads in the limes Arabicus. The study combines epigraphic analysis with historical context to reconstruct the Roman army's role and interactions in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
An edition of new Nabataean inscriptions from Umm al-Jimāl
Recent discoveries at Umm Al-Jimāl, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Jordan's north-eastern Badia, have uncovered six new Nabataean inscriptions. These inscriptions, carved in the square or monumental script, represent a significant addition to the known corpus of Nabataean epigraphy. The findings provide valuable insights into the language and culture of the Nabataeans, a people renowned for their architectural and artistic achievements during the Roman period. The study, conducted by al-Zoubi, al-Manaser, and Hazza (2022), contributes to the broader understanding of Nabataean civilization through meticulous documentation and analysis of these newly discovered texts.
Engineering the reconstruction of Hawrān’s Ecclesiae during late antiquity: case of Julianos church in Umm el-Jimal, Jordan
Researchers have uncovered novel engineering techniques used in the construction of early Byzantine churches in the Hawrān region, challenging traditional stylistic interpretations. Focusing on Julianos Church in Umm el-Jimal, Jordanthe study reveals that the apsidal zone's roofing structure was uniquely adapted to local basalt materials and seismic conditions, diverging from classical prototypes. Using historical evidence, digital 2D/3D reconstructions, and structural analysis, the team demonstrated how builders innovatively addressed material constraints while ensuring stability. This work underscores the need for a balanced approach in future reconstructions, integrating both stylistic and engineering perspectives to preserve Hawrān's ancient Christian heritage accurately.
An Arab Chariot Monument at Umm al-Jimāl
Research at Umm al-Jimāl, Jordan, reveals previously unpublished basalt sculptures from a Nabataean-Roman to Byzantine settlement, offering new evidence of Hellenistic-Romanized embellishment in an Arab-Nabataean sanctuary. The fragments, dated to the first or second century AD, depict chariot groups driven by deities, paralleling similar statuary found in the nearby basalt desert of al-Ledjā (ancient Trachonitis). Analysis of these remnants suggests they were part of a larger sculptural complex likely destroyed during the Palmyrenean Campaign in the later third century AD. The study combines archaeological investigation with comparative analysis to reconstruct the sanctuary's significance and cultural context, bridging gaps in our understanding of this understudied region.
A Revised Reading of a Nabataean Inscription from Umm Al-Jimal
A revised interpretation of a Nabataean inscription from Umm Al-Jimāl challenges previous readings, offering new insights into the language and culture of the ancient Nabataeans. The study focuses on line two of an inscription analyzed by S. Said and M. al-Hamad (2003), proposing alternative translations that refine understanding of the text's historical context. By employing epigraphic analysis and comparative linguistic methods, the authors demonstrate how re-evaluating ambiguous or poorly preserved inscriptions can yield significant advancements in deciphering Nabataean script and semantics. This work contributes to ongoing efforts to reconstruct the epigraphic corpus of Umm Al-Jimāl, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its Nabataean heritage.
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