This pH๏τograph captures an aerial view of a large and unique archaeological complex known as Qalatga Darband. It is an ancient city located in the Kurdistan region of Iraq. The discovery and excavation of the site has provided important information about the presence and influence of the Roman Empire in a remote area that was thought to be outside its main sphere of activity.

Date and History

Archaeologists have determined that Qalatga Darband dates from approximately the 1st or 2nd century BC to the 1st or 2nd century AD. This was a crucial period when Rome was expanding its power and confronting the Parthian (ancient Persian) Empire. The city’s strategic location along an important trade and military route suggests it may have served as an outpost or an intermediate city between the two powers.

Location and Materials

Place of discovery:

The ancient city of Qalatga Darband is located near the town of Ranya, in the Sulaymaniyah province of Iraqi Kurdistan. The site is located on a small hill overlooking the Lower Zab River valley, a location that was extremely advantageous for both trade and military purposes.

Materials and architecture:

The buildings at Qalatga Darband were built primarily of limestone and fired bricks. The layout of the city is distinctive, with a main street running straight through the center and buildings arranged in a grid or oval shape. Some notable structures include fortified walls, private houses, and larger public buildings, possibly temples or public baths. Excavations have uncovered many artifacts that show a combination of Roman and local architecture, suggesting a strong cultural exchange.

Meaning and Use

Qalatga Darband is believed to have been an important Roman military outpost. Its primary function may have been as a fortress to protect the trade and military route between Rome and Parthia, and as an administrative and commercial center for the surrounding area. The discovery of busts of Roman gods and Roman coins further supports this theory, suggesting Roman cultural and political influence. The city may have been used to control troop movements, protect merchants, and collect taxes, creating a secure zone in the volatile border region.

Excavator or Organization

The site was first discovered in 1996 by an archaeological team led by the British Museum. However, due to political instability in the area, large-scale excavations could only begin in 2013, as part of an emergency project by the British Museum to protect endangered cultural heritage. The excavation team was led by archaeologist John MacGinnis, working closely with the Kurdistan Antiquities Directorate and local archaeologists.

If you wish, I can provide further details on the specific artifacts found or the role of the site in the context of the Roman-Parthian conflict.