Opening of the Archaeological Site
The UAE’s only known Christian archaeological site has opened for public tours on Sir Bani Yas Island. Visitors will be fascinated by this historically important 7th Century Monastery, which provides an important insight into the past inhabitants of this region.
The start of tours of the Desert Islands site, which was initially discovered during excavations of the Island in 1992, coincides with the start of a new phase of work by archaeologists, during which monks´ cells, kitchens, animal pens and storerooms, courtyard and church have already been unearthed.
Sir Bani Yas Island has been inhabited for more than 7,500 years, and more than 36 archaeological sites have been found on the island since surveys and excavations began. These include a circular tomb thought to be 4,000 years old, a fortified watchtower, small villages, a mosque and evidence of the ancient pearling industry. These will be assessed in the future and may be excavated and opened to public in the coming years.
The precious artifacts unearthed so far include more than fifteen types of pottery, glass vessels, ceremonial vases and richly decorated elaborate plasterwork stucco, with many crosses, palm trees, and grape designs which have provided great insight into the 7th Century inhabitants of the island and their lifestyles.