Complaints of Encroachment on Archaeological Sites at Shanan Castle

The Department of Antiquities at the University of Shendi revealed skeletal remains that, based on initial findings, date back to the Stone Age at the Shanan Castle site in Shendi’s Block 9.

Dr. Hassan Awad Karim, University of Shendi’s director, described Shanan Castle, where excavation began in 2002, as a significant asset for the Department of Antiquities. He noted that the university has received numerous awards for research conducted there and emphasized the need to protect the site from encroachment. The university is coordinating with the National Authority for Antiquities and the Archaeological Protection Police to preserve the nation’s heritage.

Dr. Youssef Al-Abed, Dean of the College of Tourism and Antiquities, stated that the site was allocated in 2002 for students in the Department of Antiquities and later became a training site for the Department of Tourism and Antiquities in 2016. He stressed the importance of the site as a training ground for archaeology students and emphasized the need to protect it from any intrusions.

Dr. Osman Suleiman, instructor for the Archaeology Excavation course, explained that the training program aims to enrich students’ theoretical knowledge with practical experience. This year’s excavation uncovered skeletal remains from the Stone Age, with final analysis results expected upon completion of the excavation. He warned that the site faces threats from urban expansion and noted that unauthorized construction is a significant challenge.

The head of the Department of Antiquities added that training activities at the site began on October 26 and will last for two weeks. She praised the local community for its role in protecting the site from encroachment.