alQudum

alQudum is a large prehistoric walled city discovered in southern Yemen. Excavated in the early 20th century, the site has yielded significant insights into the ancient history of the region. The city's walls, constructed from mud-brick and stone, date back to the 3rd millennium BC, indicating a distinct urban presence at the time.

Settlement at alQudum is believed to have begun during the Ubaid period, marking one of the earliest examples of urbanization in the Arabian Peninsula. Archaeological evidence points to a gradual evolution of the city over the subsequent millennia, incorporating architectural and cultural elements from various neighboring societies. Excavations have revealed a remarkable array of artifacts, including ceramics, furnishings, and jewelry, attributed to different historical periods.

One notable aspect of alQudum is the deliberate construction of its surrounding walls. The extensive barrier stretches for several kilometers around the city, encompassing various eras of settlement. Observers have proposed several theories to explain the purpose behind these fortified walls, ranging from protection against raiding groups to social or ceremonial motivations.

The investigation at alQudum has considerably enhanced our understanding of South Arabian urban development, offering unique glimpses into the life of an ancient civilization. While much remains to be explored about alQudum, the findings made so far shed valuable light on the emergence of complex societies in the region, whose direct remnants have eluded archaeologists for so long.