Discover the ancient city of Kerma in Sudan
By Enrique Gánem Corvera
Sudan, a country rich in history and culture, is home to several ancient cities that have stood the test of time. Among them, the city of Kerma claims the title of the oldest settlement in Sudan. Located on the eastern bank of the Nile River, Kerma has a history dating back more than 5,000 years.
Kerma was the capital of the Kingdom of Kerma, also known as the Nubian Kingdom of Kush, which flourished between 2500 and 1500 B.C. The kingdom was a major power in the region, with strong commercial connections to Egypt and other neighboring civilizations. The city of Kerma served as the political, economic and religious center of this ancient kingdom.
The archaeological site of Kerma is a treasure trove of ancient artifacts and structures. The most prominent feature is the Deffufa, a massive mud brick structure that served as a religious temple and administrative center. The Deffufa reaches an impressive height of approximately 18 meters and is believed to have been built in several stages over the centuries.
Q: What does «nubian» mean?
A: The term «Nubian» refers to the people and culture of the region known as Nubia, which covers parts of Sudan and Egypt today. The Nubians have a rich history and a distinctive cultural heritage.
Q: How do we know that Kerma is the oldest city in Sudan?
A: Kerma’s antiquity is determined by archaeological excavations and carbon dating techniques. These methods allow researchers to analyze the age of artifacts and structures found at the site, providing evidence of their ancient origins.
Q: Can visitors explore the ancient city of Kerma?
A: Yes, visitors can explore the archaeological site of Kerma. The site is open to the public and guided tours are offered to provide information on the history and importance of the ancient city.
Q: Are there other ancient cities in Sudan?
A: Yes, Sudan is home to several ancient cities, such as Meroe, Napata and Dongola. These cities were also important centers of ancient civilizations and offer insight into Sudan’s rich historical past.
In short, the city of Kerma holds the title of the oldest settlement in Sudan. With its impressive archaeological site and historic importance, Kerma is witness to the enduring legacy of ancient civilizations in this region. Visitors to Sudan have the opportunity to explore this ancient city and witness the vestiges of a bygone era.
Source: https://zbr.com.mx/sin-categoria-es/what-is-the-oldest-town-in-sudan-2/636508/
