The al-Ula - al-Wajh Survey Project (UWSP)

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The al-Ula – al-Wajh Survey Project (UWSP) is the archaeological investigation of potential ancient trade and communication routes and associated archaeological sites between the ancient settlements of al-Ula and Mada’in Salih (Hegra) and the Red Sea littoral in the area between al-Wajh and Cape of Kurkuma (Ras al Jurayjib). The project's investigations are related to the economics of long distance trade in incense and the utilization of the so-called "Incense Route," which served to convey incense from South Arabia to the Mediterranean during in the Hellenistic-Roman periods (4th c. B.C. – 3rd c. A.D.). Furthermore, the project is concerned with the location of Leuke Kome, an important ancient seaport in the incense trade. Through the investigations of potential trade routes in the region, the UWSP strives to provide better understanding of the mechanisms of the trade network, its infrastructure and movement of goods as well as provide evidence for inter-cultural exchange. Under the overall direction of Stephan G. Schmid the fieldwork will be directed by Zbigniew Fiema in cooperation with the Finnish Institute in the Middle East (FIME) and under the auspices of the Saudi High Commission for Tourism and Antiquities.