A team of British and Bahraini archaeologists has uncovered one of the oldest Christian structures in the Gulf region. The archaeological discovery in the village of Samahij on the northern coast of Muharraq Island in Bahrain is believed to provide the first material evidence of this ancient community.
The Nestorian church, also known as the Church of the East, flourished in the region for several centuries until the 7th century, when the spread of Islam began on the Arabian Peninsula. Radiocarbon dating of the Samahij monument has confirmed that the building was inhabited between the 4th and 8th centuries.
Excavations in the area began in 2019 at a mound in the Samahij cemetery, where archaeologists discovered the remains of a mosque beneath the mound. Further work revealed a large structure with eight rooms, including a kitchen, dining area, workshop, and three living quarters. According to the archaeologists, the construction of the mosque helped preserve the Christian building.
The findings suggest that the structure may have served as the residence of the head of the diocese that included Samahij. Historical sources refer to this area as "Mishmahig." Records also indicate a connection between the region and central church authorities: one bishop was dismissed in 410 AD, and another was condemned for undermining church unity in the mid-7th century.
This discovery, the scholars say, is unique because the historical monument is located in the very center of a modern, densely populated city, unlike other previously found Christian structures located in remote areas along the shores of the Persian Gulf.
Among the findings in the complex are three plaster crosses, two of which served as decoration for the building, while one may have been kept as a personal relic, as well as wall carvings depicting fish and parts of the "Chi Rho" symbol (representing the word "Christ").
According to the archaeologists, this archaeological discovery provides valuable information about the Christian presence in the region. The researchers established that the building was constructed from stone, with plastered walls and floors made of plaster. There are preserved holes for door hinges and seating fixtures. The kitchen contained built-in ovens with bases and storage space for food or utensils.
Based on the artifacts, it appears that the inhabitants lived in prosperity, consuming meat, fish, shellfish, and various grains. The discovery of semi-precious agate beads and broken Indian pottery indicates that the residents were engaged in trade, particularly with India. Small drinking cups and 12 copper coins point to the use of currency from the Sassanian Empire. Additionally, spindles and copper needles hint at the possibility of fabric production for religious purposes.
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