Sharjah’s Sira Khorfakkan Island has been declared an archaeological reserve

The site has settlements dating back to the 13th century.

Sharjah is famous for its cultural sights and festivals, but now there’s another reason to visit the Emirate. Sira Khorfakkan Island has the kind of history that would impress Indiana Jones, as it has now been declared an archaeological reserve. 

Sharjah Archaeology Authority’s surveys and studies have found that there were historical human settlements on the island. The settlements date back to the 13th to the 16th century, and the 18th to the 19th century.

The settlements were found on the western side overlooking Khorfakkan. Residential buildings, agricultural terraces, cemeteries, and an observation area at the top of the mountain have been identified. Plus, pottery fragments were found along the coast.

History buffs will be excited to hear about the archaeological finds. The items include porcelain from the 17th century, pottery from the 13th century, and celadon belonging to the 14th and 16th century. There is even pottery that can trace its routes back to southern China.

Sira Khorfakkan Island in Sharjah has undergone a transformation since being approved as an archaeological reserve by His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. 

Sira Khorfakkan has long been an area of archaeological interest, thanks to its special location. The island overlooks the entrance of Khorfakkan from the east, and has been used to monitor marine traffic in the Sea of Oman. Plus, geological studies have found that the Sira Khorfakkan island is home to ophiolite formations, which were created during the Cretaceous period – that’s up to 145 million years ago. 

GO: Visit www.visitsharjah.com for more information.