Abstract:
Recent research into the early and middle Holocene occupation of the Fayum North Shore, Egypt has suggested that the archaeological history was more varied and complex than previously thought. Post-depositional processes such as wind and water erosion are now thought to have had a significant influence on the preservation and visibility of deposits and objects in the region. Twentieth century excavations of Kom W, led to a variety of interpretations including the presence of a Neolithic village. However, from its beginning Kom W was subject to post-depositional processes, particularly wind erosion, which have affected the site’s current form, and the preservation of features and artefacts within the deposits. These processes have also affected the archaeology of the surrounding area that falls between X and Z basins, known as the X1 survey area. The impact of erosion suggests the need to re-evaluate previous interpretations of Kom W and the archaeology of the surrounding area.
