We explore, study, and preserve historical and cultural resources at Khirbat Ataruz and its Vicinity.

We are excavating one of the most magnificent ancient temples in the Levant region of the Middle East, estimated to be over 3,000 years old. Our research team is also dedicated to studying, surveying, and documenting invaluable archaeological, historical, and cultural remains in some of Jordan’s most breathtaking landscapes, including Wadi as-Sir, the Dhiban Plateau, and Jabal Hamidah. These areas have faced significant threats for decades, from expanding housing developments to road construction and industrial projects. Our mission is to study, uncover, protect, and preserve these regions' historical and cultural heritage from improper development. However, we cannot achieve these goals alone. Discover how you can contribute and be part of this critical project.

Main Sanctuary Room of the Ataruz Temple (9th Century BCE; Photo by C. Ji)
Aerial View of Khirbat Ataruz (Photo by APAAME_20181014_MND-0049)
Khirbat Ataruz, View from the North (Photo by C. Ji)

Aerial View of Khirbat Ataruz

(Photo by APAAME)

Khirbat Ataruz, View from the North

(Photo by C. Ji)

Main Sanctuary Room of the Ataruz Temple

(Photo by C. Ji)

Defense Wall, Northeastern Section

Western High Place

(Photo by J. Park)

Dry Moat, Southeastern Section

Bull Statue

Bull Statue and Storage Jar from the Iron IIA Ataruz Temple (Photo by J. Park)

Shrine Model from Iron IIA Temple

(Photo by J. Burnett)

Kernos and Cup-and-Saucer

from the Iron IIA Temple (Photo by J. Park)

Inscribed Altar from Moabite Shrine

(Photo by Qais Twassi)

Cup-and-Saucer from Moabite Shrine

(Photo by J. Park)

Late Hellenistic-Early Roman Bath at Khirbat Ataruz (2nd-1st Centuries BCE; Photo by C. Ji)

Late Hellenistic-Early Roman Bath at Khirbat Ataruz (2nd-1st Centuries BCE; Photo by C. Ji)

Rujm Ataruz, an Iron II Fortress Site 4 km East of Khirbat Ataruz

(Photo by C. Ji)

Boz al-Mushelle (Farsh al-Mesala) and the Ancient Road to Khirbat Ataruz (Photo by C. Ji)

Boz al-Mushelle (Farsh al-Mesala) and the Ancient Road to Khirbat Ataruz (Photo by C. Ji)

The Wadi Zarqa-Main Crossing, North of Khirbat Ataruz (Photo by C. Ji)

The Wadi Zarqa-Main Crossing, North of Khirbat Ataruz (Photo by C. Ji)

Excavating Field E at Khirbat Ataruz (Photo by I. Ji)