Workshop on Austrian Excavations at Bursiba Site

On Thursday October 24, a workshop focused on archaeological excavations was held at the General Authority for Antiquities and Heritage, under the supervision of the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Antiquities for Arts Affairs and the Director General of the Department of Studies, Research, and Archaeological Training, Mr Qasim Al-Sudani. The workshop featured a presentation by archaeological expert Dr Walter Konter from the University of Innsbruck, Austria.

Attended by several general directors from the ministry, the workshop aimed to introduce participants to the excavation work conducted by the Austrian mission and to share the results achieved during the 2023-2024 excavation seasons. A key objective was to enhance the skills of local workers through direct communication and collaboration with foreign missions.

Dr Konter emphasised that the workshop served as a valuable platform for exchanging ideas and experiences, providing essential information for researchers interested in the ongoing archaeological work at the Bursiba site. Named after the excavation mission, Bursiba is located south of Babylon and dates back to the Early Dynastic Period. Significant discoveries at the site include numerous pottery pieces, as well as a temple and a ziggurat, which are indicative of its historical importance.

During his presentation, Dr Konter detailed the excavation process, highlighting that the site is situated 47 metres above ground level and has been mapped using drone technology to ensure precise documentation.

Excavation work at the Bursiba site will continue into the following year, with plans to make the documentation available online. This initiative will allow interested individuals to access and benefit from the findings, further promoting engagement with Iraq’s rich archaeological heritage. The workshop marks an important step in fostering collaboration between local experts and international missions, ultimately strengthening Iraq’s position in the field of archaeology.

Source: Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Antiquities