In line with the University’s strategy to foster a vibrant environment rich in cultural activities
 

The Department of History and Archaeology organized its annual field trip to the Subiya archaeological area, led by Prof. Ahmad Saeed, with the participation of 55 archaeology students and a group of faculty members, including Dr. Khaled Al-Nouri, Prof. Faisal Taha, and Dr. Hamad Al-Qahtani. The trip was organized in collaboration with Dr. Sultan Al-Duwaish, Director General of the Department of Antiquities and Museums and former Supervisor of Archaeological Missions at the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Letters (NCCAL), as well as Mr. Hassan Al-Failakawi from the Council, on Saturday, November 1, 2025.

The visit included a tour of the Bronze Age burial sites, as the Subiya tombs—dating back to the third to second millennium BCE—represent one of the most significant archaeological discoveries in Kuwait. Their wide distribution, architectural diversity, and the variety of artifacts found within them have provided valuable insights into important aspects of Kuwait’s ancient history.

The students then proceeded to the Bahra 1 site, north of Kuwait City—an important Al-Obaid civilization archaeological site—to observe the ongoing work of the Polish archaeological mission. Dr. Anna, a member of the mission, presented an overview of the team’s excavation work and the site’s fossil history, noting that it represents the largest known settlement of Al-Obaid civilization. She highlighted key findings, including residential structures, burial sites, markets, workshops, and a temple, in addition to various artifacts—most notably the distinctive imported and locally made Al-Obaid pottery, characterized by its colorful and decorative designs, as well as ornamental tools and jewelry crafted from beads and shells.

The group then visited the Kazma Cultural Center, which serves as the headquarters of the Polish mission, to observe the team’s ongoing research, study, and restoration work. Under the supervision of Prof. Piotr Bieliński, students watched the restoration, measurement, and drawing of pottery fragments, as well as the scientific analysis of plant seeds. This season’s excavation resulted in the discovery of a variety of new archaeological artifacts, enriching students’ understanding of Kuwait’s ancient civilizations.