The images captured by the American KH-9 (Hexagon) reconnaissance satellite in 1973 have led to a remarkable archaeological discovery.
According to a study just published in the scientific journal Antiquity, the photographs taken by the American reconnaissance satellite in 1973 revealed hidden remnants of a 1,400-year-old settlement located in present-day Iran.
Cross-referencing with historical documents, an extremely significant piece of the Middle Eastern history puzzle has been uncovered.
The satellite image from over half a century ago revealed a ghost town in present-day Iran – (Photo: USGS).
According to Live Science, the research team led by archaeologist William Deadman from Durham University (UK) has declassified data from this satellite system to study the Hajj pilgrimage route: Darb Zubaydah.
This route is one of the seven major pilgrimage routes in ancient Arabia. The research follows Saudi Arabia and Iraq jointly nominating this site for consideration as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The aforementioned ghost town was discovered accidentally during the survey. The most surprising detail is that it is believed to be the lost battlefield of the historically significant battle of al-Qadisiyyah.
The battle of al-Qadisiyyah took place in 636 or 637 AD between the Arab Islamic army and the Sasanid Empire, which ruled the area now known as Iran from 224 to 651 AD.
This battle resulted in a crucial victory for the Islamic army and marked the beginning of the Muslim conquest of Persia.
An on-site survey has confirmed this discovery. Archaeologists identified a nearly 10 km long wall and a moat to the north of the ghost town, exactly as mentioned in historical texts.
“This discovery provides the geographical location and context for a battle that was foundational for the spread of Islam into modern-day Iraq, Iran, and many other places,” Dr. Deadman stated.
