Algerian Radio
Archaeological excavations conducted at the "Dar El-Imam" site, located in the municipality of Honaïne (the wilaya of Telemcen), have led to the discovery of fragments of decorated plaster as well as zellij tiles, the scientific head of the excavations, Sabrina Dahmani, indicated on Monday.
A researcher at the archaeology department of Aboubekr Belkaid University of Telemcen, Dr. Dahmani told APS that the excavations carried out from June 14 to 28 unearthed plaster fragments adorned with floral, epigraphic, and geometric motifs, along with square, triangular, and rectangular zellij tiles.
She specified that "the preliminary results of this excavation campaign will be the subject of studies and analyses within the framework of academic work over the coming months. The goal is to establish a relative dating of the site based on the discovered objects and the unearthed architectural remains."
The researcher also stressed that the initial results highlight the need to enclose this archaeological site to ensure its protection and allow for continued scientific research. She insisted on the importance of strengthening cooperation between the various institutions concerned with a view to studying and promoting the archaeological heritage of "Dar El-Imam," where the excavations have revealed several architectural elements. According to her, this site is among the most important historical and archaeological witnesses of the Telemcen region.
Dr. Dahmani added that this excavation campaign also served as a field school for around twenty archaeology students from the National Institute of Archaeology in Algiers, as well as universities in Constantine and Sétif.
Furthermore, she indicated that this operation was distinguished by the use of the latest techniques for surveying and digitally documenting archaeological sites, notably through the use of aerial laser scanning systems and three-dimensional terrestrial laser scanners. These technologies ensure highly precise documentation of the remains and the different stages of the excavation, while facilitating the creation of three-dimensional (3D) digital models of the site, she explained.
The "Dar El-Imam" site in Honaïne is among the main historical and archaeological sites on the coastal facade of the wilaya of Telemcen. Its exploration contributes to enriching knowledge about the architectural heritage of the Islamic period and strengthening efforts to protect, conserve, and promote this cultural heritage, it was emphasized.
