Alessandro Sebastiani

Today marked the unofficial start of the AlUla World Archaeology Summit (AWAS 2024), a gathering of minds and passions from across the globe, all converging in the extraordinary landscape of AlUla. Our day began with travel from Riyadh, winding through desert landscapes and historic sites, each mile bringing us closer to a region steeped in cultural and archaeological significance.

Upon arriving, we had the privilege of visiting an early Islamic site currently under investigation. The site, set against AlUla’s majestic backdrop, offers a tangible connection to the early days of Islam and the civilizations that have passed through these lands. Being able to witness the excavations firsthand was a rare opportunity, with scholars on-site sharing fascinating insights into the lives, architecture, and spirituality of these early communities.

The evening was capped with a wonderful dinner featuring traditional Saudi cuisine—rich, flavorful, and imbued with the history of the region. The lively exchange of ideas and conversations over the meal created an atmosphere of camaraderie and anticipation for what the summit holds. Surrounded by fantastic scholars and good vibes, the excitement for tomorrow’s sessions is palpable. Looking forward to diving deeper into the dialogue, discoveries, and debates that will shape AWAS 2024!