Iron Age "Boulder graves" in the ancient oasis of Bisya and Sallut (Ad Dakhiliyah, Sultanate of Oman)

The Archaeological Mission in Oman of the University of Milan, as part of ongoing research at the ancient oasis of Bisya and Sallut, resumed investigations along the slops of Jabal Sallut, the rocky hill that borders the plain where the main Iron Age site of Husn Sallut is located. Previous surveys revealed unique features: large, isolated boulders - some engraved- enclosed by low dry-stone walls. To investigate the hypothesis that these were burials, four structures were excavated. The results confirmed their function as prehistoric graves., here designated "Boulder Graves". This paper presents the initial findings, including a discussion of regional parallels and possible chronologies. The burial type has not been previously excavated in the area, particularly within the boundries of the Archaeological Sites of Bisya and Sallut Park. The investigation of these structures, thereefore, not only provides data on Iron Age burial practices but also significantly enriches the typological and chronological diversity of graves accessible to visitors within the park.