Field Evidence and Dating of Early Mining and Smelting in the Faynan District

Abstract

In the framework of this research project an area of 27 × 35 km in the district of Faynan was surveyed in order to document sites, which have either a direct or indirect bearing on early mining and/or metal production (Fig. 5.1). Some sites were not accessible due to the occasionally very difficult conditions of the terrain; consequently, focal points had to be chosen and gaps had to be tolerated. The topographic maps that were available were not particularly useful; thus, aerial photos and satellite images were also used. Based upon data from satellite images (Ikonos Carterra Geo Ortho Kit), the coordinates of sites were determined with a positional accuracy of 15.0 meter (CE90) exclusive terrain effects.