Centuries-Old Moat and Fortification Wall Discovered in Historic Jeddah: 18th-19th Century Finds and European Trade Connections
A centuries-old defensive moat and fortification wall were discovered in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, near Allegiance and Al-Kidwah Squares.
The Jeddah Historic District Program announced the findings from recent archaeological excavations, revealing historical structures from the first phase of the archaeology project.
Although Jeddah was fortified since the late 10th and early 11th century AD, laboratory analysis suggests these discoveries originate from the 18th and 19th century fortification system.
In the 19th century, Jeddah's moat fell into disuse and was filled with sand.
However, the fortification wall endured until 1947, with some parts still standing up to three meters high.
Archaeological excavations revealed European imported ceramics from the 19th century, indicating Jeddah's extensive trade connections.
Additionally, a fragment of 9th-century pottery was discovered at Al-Qidwah Square, making it the latest archaeological finding.