Long-distance trade on the Karak Plateau (Central Jordan): The case of Khirbat al-Mudaybiᶜ and Fajj al-ᶜUsaykir

Abstract

By its very nature, archaeological evidence survives in fragmentary form, but we can still learn much about the ancient world from these material remains. This includes the study of products and raw materials obtained through local and long-distance trade networks. Since 1995, Joel Drinkard and his colleagues on Karak Resources Project have studied central Jordan. KRP’s research agenda included excavation at Khirbat al-Mudaybiᶜ, a fortress on Moab’s desert fringe that was built and occupied in Iron Age II and reoccupied in several later periods. Most artifacts recovered by this team were made locally and used for domestic purposes. Certain items found here also reflect connections with surrounding lands (e.g., remains of plants and animals, objects made from non-local rocks and minerals, sea shells). A 30 g bronze weight points to trade in precious commodities.