8 thousand year old temple found in Saudi Arabia
ABP Live | 02 July 2025
Discovery of an Ancient City in the Al-Fao Region
A remarkable archaeological discovery has been made in the southern region of Saudi Arabia, where archaeologists have unearthed an ancient city in the Al-Fao region near Riyadh, believed to be around 8,000 years old. This finding provides valuable insights into the social, religious, and cultural life of early civilizations on the Arabian Peninsula.
The Rock-Cut Temple on Tuwaiq Mountain
During the excavation, researchers discovered a rock-cut temple atop the Tuwaiq mountain range. Inside the temple, remains of religious rituals were found, suggesting that the inhabitants practiced organized forms of worship and idol veneration.
Discovery of 2,807 Graves from Multiple Periods
In addition to the temple, a total of 2,807 graves have been unearthed in the surrounding area, spanning different historical periods, highlighting the site’s long-term habitation and cultural continuity.
Al-Fao: Capital of the Kindah Empire
The site of Al-Fao, once known as the capital of the Kindah Empire, has yielded religious inscriptions and temple idols that affirm the prevalence of idol worship and ritual traditions in the region. This extensive archaeological work was undertaken under the supervision of the Heritage Commission of Saudi Arabia, supported by a team of international experts who studied the site for several years.
Advanced Ancient Irrigation System in the Desert
A particularly fascinating aspect of this discovery is the evidence of an ancient irrigation system. Archaeological studies have revealed a complex network of canals, water tanks, and pits designed to collect and channel rainwater to agricultural fields — a clear indication of advanced water-management knowledge despite harsh desert conditions.
Traces of Neolithic Human Settlement
Moreover, remnants from the Neolithic period have also been identified, including traces of human settlements, indicating continuous habitation and adaptation over thousands of years.
Magnificent Architecture and Religious Faith
The stone-built temple structures, with their intricate design and enduring strength, reflect both the architectural excellence and spiritual devotion of their builders. Nearby altars and ritual spaces further emphasize the religious life that once flourished in the Al-Fao region.
Significance of the Discovery
This extraordinary discovery not only underscores the deep antiquity of the Arabian Peninsula, but also reveals how early communities thrived in challenging environments, demonstrating sophisticated systems of social organization, religious practice, and water management long before recorded history.
Relevance
1.8 (b) cultural evolution - Broad outlines of Prehistoric cultures : Neolithic
