Archaeological Survey in the Meimak District, Ilam Province

Meimak District is located in southwestern part of Ilam Province, along with Iraqi border to the east of the Mandali region. The district had not yet been targeted by any archaeological investigation until the current survey was directed in the winter of 2011 resulting in discovering 13 sites. These include 4 prehistoric, 1 proto-historic, 4 historic and finally 4 late Islamic sites. The prehistoric sites contain early, middle and probably late paleolithic periods together with Samarra, CMT and Ubaid 2-4, while the only proto- literature site indicates both late Uruk and Jamdet Nasr materials. The survey has also offered some evidence from early to middle Elamite through Parthian and Sassanian periods. However, the late Islamic remains show the temporary pastoroal occupations as those are being presented today in the district. This article is focused on the discussion of the survey achievements.