Italian archaeological mission explores ancient Samarra

SALAH AL-DIN, January 24 – An Italian archaeological team led by Nicolò Marchetti, professor of ancient Near East archaeology and art history at the University of Bologna, has begun a field survey in Samarra at the Tel Am Rweis site, a precursor to signing an excavation contract with the Iraqi Ministry of Culture.

Nicolò Marchetti, head of the mission, spoke to 964media about the project’s importance. “Italy is deeply committed to the archaeological preservation in Samarra, which requires extensive protection and excavation. Our current visit focuses on exploring the site, which has a rich history spanning over 3,000 years.”

Harith Jasim, director of Samarra Antiquities, highlighted the project’s potential impact: “The excavation at Tel Am Rweis is poised to significantly boost Samarra’s tourism and, consequently, its economy.

“We’ve provided all necessary support to the mission, in coordination with the Ministry of Culture and security authorities, to facilitate their work at the site.”