Saudi Gazette report

Riyadh — A joint Saudi-French mission to explore archaeological sites under the supervision of the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage (SCTH) has revealed sites dating back to about 100,000 years in a number of mountains south of Riyadh, specifically in Al-Kharj.

The field survey of the mission included the hills surrounding Al-Kharj Mountains overlooking Wadi Nisah, part of the hills overlooking the Mawan valley, Ein Farzane and the hills overlooking the town of Al-Shadidah.

The sites are dating back to the Paleolithic period about 100,000 years.

This is the first time that sites from the Paleolithic period were discovered in Al-Kharj as well as sites dating back to the Upper Paleolithic period.

The mission includes 18 members of the Saudi and French scientists and specialists in the field of archaeological excavations.

The joint Saudi-French mission works within the framework of the agreement signed between the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage and the French side on Sept. 21, 2011, for archaeological excavations in Al-Kharj governorate in Riyadh region.

Prince Sultan Bin Salman, President of the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage, received the team of the joint Saudi-French mission to explore the site of Yamama in Al-Kharj.

He appreciated the efforts of the mission, stressing the importance of preparing the site for visitors to link citizens with their country’s history.