The Sikait Project started in 2016 in the Ancient History sector of the Department of Antiquity and Middle Age Studies of Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona in association with the Polish Centre of Mediterranean Archaeology.
Its main goal is to analyse the geographical, socioeconomic, cultural and religious characteristics of the region formerly known as “Mons Smaragdus” (nowadays known as Wadi El Gemal National Park, in Egypt). This region was characterized by being the only area of the Roman Empire where beryl ore could be obtained. Its green variant is also known as emerald.
By creating a multidisciplinary team with field experience at the Eastern Desert in Egypt, the Sikait Project wants to learn more about the organization around the extraction of this valuable resource. Furthermore, the Project also wants to protect and add value to the rich archaeological and natural heritage of the area.
Access to more content of the campaigns carried out:
Sikait Project English 