9. Seashells in the Jordanian Desert: a Cross-Cultural Analysis

Abstract

The remains of ancient communities have been found at Wadi Ramm and Humayma, Jordan in the midst of what is now the Jordanian desert. In past times these sites were located along caravan routes and were populated by Nabataean, Roman, Byzantine, and early Islamic peoples. Despite the fact that these sites are located tens of kilometers from the seashore, seashells are frequently found in the layers associated with the different population groups. As of yet, shells from the 1996-1997 excavations at Wadi Ramm and from the 2008-2010 excavations at Humayma have not received in depth analyses allowing them to be correctly identified, quantified, and associated with significant archaeological contexts. Archaeomalacology (the study of molluscs in archaeological contexts) is a vital part of deciphering ancient human diet and activity. It is also critical in determining past environments and transportation systems. Clearly these shells came from the sea, but how did they get to these remote desert locales? Based on the preliminary descriptions provided by the field excavators, the photographs of the Wadi Ramm shells, and the actual Humayma shells which are at Queen’s, I am creating a catalogue to identify, describe, and quantify the variety of mollusc species present. This catalogue incorporates all of the significant data in one place, thus allowing me to look for patterns in the frequency, condition, and probable function of the shells. This analysis will lead to a better understanding of the diet and cultural practices of the different ancient inhabitants at Wadi Ramm and Humayma.