In Part 1 of my new series on ancient Yemen, we will explore the ancient city of Timna. Timna’s ruins, constructed on a 65-acre oval-shaped mound, include massive granite cyclopean walls strikingly similar to sites found in Peru, Egypt, and apan. As a key center of the Qataban Kingdom on the Incense Route, Timna thrived on frankincense and myrrh trade, yet its monumental South Gate, Temple of Athirat, and Market Square suggest Timna’s origins reach far earlier than the 4thcentury BC, possibly predating known Yemeni civilizations. Additionally, we’ll discuss the critical threats to Yemen’s archaeological heritage amid ongoing conflict, with sites like Timna at risk of loss. Join me to uncover the story of this extraordinary ancient site!

Link: https://www.monumentaorientalia.org/