Tag Archives: Arab-Persian Gulf

Online lecture: “The Missing Bishopric? The Archaeology of Christianity in Samahij, Bahrain”, 28/04/2022

We cordially invite you to an online lecture Professor Timothy Insoll Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies, University of Exeter, UK on DEUTSCHES ARCHÄOLOGISCHES INSTITUT “The Missing Bishopric? The Archaeology of Christianity in Samahij, Bahrain” Thursday, April 28th, 2022 4.00 p.m. CET Abstract: The episcopal seat of Meshmahig or Mašmahig is referred to in various historical sources, such as the synods of the Church of the East, of 410 and 576. These sources have been extensively explored, and it has been suggested that Mašmahig can be linked with the village of Samahij in northeast Muharraq Island, Bahrain. However, archaeological evidence for a Christian presence in Samahij, or elsewhere in Bahrain was lacking. Excavations completed within the village cemetery at Samahij uncovered part of a large building complex. Based on the architecture, associated material culture, and chronology, it is suggested this was occupied by a Christian community, and is perhaps the episcopal palace itself. This was abandoned after Islamisation, seemingly in the eighth century. The results of two seasons of excavations will be described, and the implications for Christianity, Islamisation, and settlement in Bahrain considered. The online event is free of charge and takes place with the software “Zoom”. Please click the following link to join the event: https://dainst-org.zoom.us/j/92312981591… Meeting-ID: 923 1298 1591 Passcode: 666010