ARCE-NE: Archaeology in War-Worn Sudan: an Update and How to Help by Dr. Siobhan Shinn

Lecture Information

An attempted theft of a Meroitic period lion statue near Unesco’s Meroe site was interrupted and the artefact was rescued. Photo: Mahmoud Suliman Bashir for NCMA

This talk explores archaeological and heritage work in Sudan during the current conflict. It presents known destruction, vandalism, and looting of sites and the activities being undertaken to mitigate the damages. It also highlights the work of the Sudanese professionals who continue with this emergency work despite the danger to themselves, as well as the national and international responses. By the end of this talk, the audience will have a better understanding of the problems facing Sudanese heritage professionals and cultural sites, why the situation is problematic, and how they can help.

Kindly consider contributing to the American Sudanese Archaeological Research Center (AmSARC). AmSARC is dedicated to preserving heritage and assisting Sudanese students and professionals in securing funding for their work.

Speaker Bio

Siobhan is an archaeologist specializing in the administration and ceramics of ancient East Africa and East Mediterranean. She graduated with her doctorate in Archaeology from the University of Oxford in 2023 and is currently the ceramicist for the Sanam Temple Project, Sudan. Siobhan also worked on the Amara West Project, Sudan (2014-2015, 2018-2024) and recently finished a year-long research position at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, during which she organized and analyzed clay sealings excavated at Middle Kingdom forts in Nubia. A link to her website with more on her work can be found here.