'Significant' finds have been made at the Al Abla site, according to Saudi archaeologists
The Al Abla site, a mining area in the Asir region, has seen "significant" archaeological discoveries, according to Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia has announced 'significant' discoveries, including homes and work areas, at the kingdom's Al Abla site. SPA
According to the kingdom's Heritage Commission, the finds included reservoirs that were used to construct rainwater stores for residences and businesses.
The reservoirs included roofs designed to channel rainwater via channels lined with gypsum or made of pottery and store it until it is needed.
Buildings discovered at the site also had gypsum, a material used in plaster, covering their walls and floors.
According to the official Saudi Press Agency, the discoveries, made during the seventh season of archaeological excavation at the site, underscore the significance of Al Abla as one of the most significant historic mining centers in the south of the kingdom.
Walls and floors of buildings found at the site were also coated in gypsum, a mineral used in plaster.
Small glass vials, metal fragments, pieces of bronze vessels, rings, and beads made of ivory and precious stones were some of the most significant discoveries.
Teams also found pottery ovens and oval-shaped water troughs with insulating material within.
Along with glazed pottery and the bodies, rims, and handles of containers constructed of earthenware and steatite, or soapstone, hammerstones, grinders, and pairs of quern stones of various sizes and shapes were also discovered.