Archaeological Excavations in the City of Tikrit (1936–1980): A Historical Study of Their Origins, Development, and Findings
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Abstract
This historical study examines archaeological excavations in the city of Tikrit (1936–1980), tracing the origins and development of archaeological activity in the city and highlighting the role of the Iraqi Directorate General of Antiquities in surveying, investigating, and excavating archaeological and historical sites, as well as in protecting them from destruction. The study focuses on the major stages of archaeological activity and the measures and challenges associated with them, in addition to the most important sites that underwent excavation and conservation, particularly Tell Muhaysin, Tikrit Castle, and the walls of the old city. It also investigates the results of the excavations and the material evidence they revealed, which contributed to uncovering important aspects of Tikrit’s history and its urban and cultural development, particularly during the Islamic periods. The study concludes that archaeological activity during the period under investigation contributed to documenting an important aspect of the city’s history, highlighting its cultural significance and the importance of its archaeological sites for the study of Iraqi history
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