Ancient Tokens Rewrite History

TDT | Manama

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A newly published scientific study has revealed fresh evidence about the administrative and political organisation of the ancient Dilmun civilisation, following the discovery of three inscribed clay tokens during archaeological excavations in Bahrain.

The study, published in the Journal of Near Eastern Studies, analysed artefacts uncovered at archaeological sites across the Kingdom of Bahrain. The excavations were conducted by the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities in cooperation with an international team of experts led by Dr Steffen Terp Laursen, a specialist in Dilmun civilisation.

Researchers said the findings represent a significant archaeological discovery for the Arabian Gulf region, shedding new light on the systems used to manage governance and administration during the Dilmun era.

Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, President of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, said the discovery further confirms Bahrain’s historical importance as the homeland of the Dilmun civilisation and one of the region’s most prominent archaeological centres.

He said Bahrain’s archaeological sites continue to produce discoveries that deepen understanding of the Gulf’s ancient history, while also highlighting the importance of preserving heritage sites and supporting scientific research.

Shaikh Khalifa added that cooperation between Bahraini institutions, international archaeological missions and universities has played a key role in advancing research into the civilisation.

Dilmun, regarded as one of the Gulf’s earliest civilisations, served as a major cultural and commercial link between Mesopotamia, the Arabian Gulf and other parts of the ancient world.