Traces of the First Susian Governments Discovered in Shushtar

LONDON, (CAIS) -- Archaeological excavations in Tal-e Abouchizan in Shushtar in Khuzestan province resulted in the discovery of three stamp-seals date back to 5,000 BCE in this historical site. These seals were made of tar and must have been used for sealing the storehouses in which goods were kept. This is the first time such seals have been discovered in a historical site in Khuzestan province. Although similar stamps were discovered in some of the graves from Susa, it is the first time such evidence has been discovered in the archaeological layers of Shushtar.

These seals indicate the existence of a socio-political disciplinary system in the society at that time which led to the establishment of the first governments in that region.

“Most probably the seals were used for controlling trades which resulted in forming of the first local ruling system in the region,” said Mehdi Moghadam, head of archaeological excavation team in Tal-e Abouchizan historical site.

According to Moghadam, the existence of these seals indicates the importance of this region some 7,000 year ago and its influence on the forming of first governments in Susa.

“The existence of these seals is as a sign of a revolution in the form of ruling system in proto-Elamites. Some signs can be seen on these seals which are not readable,” added Moghadam.

Tal-e Abouchizan is one of the minor sites of Susa which contains some historical evidence from the Elamite to the Post-Sasanian periods. Tal-e Abouchizan has a strategic position. From east it leads to Ramhormoz, Behbahan, and Fars, from west it leads to Shushtar and Susa, and from the south it leads to Ahwaz and the Persian Gulf.

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News Source: CHN