These mysterious mounds at site P17 are part of a formerly extensive mound field along an ancient channel of the Nile river in our project area. It's possible that they have something to do with water management as a response to the gradual drying up of the ancient river channel (also known as a palaeochannel) approximately 3500-1500 years ago. Our recent research indicates that at least some of the mounds were created during that period of time. 

Sand dune movement poses risks to rural communities, agriculture and archaeological resources in northern Sudan. Dr. Ahmed Mahmoud, AHLAN project Co-Lead, has developed innovative tools for tracking sand dune movement in the region and will build on this as part of our research objectives.