Sumur
Country: Syria
Region: Middle East
Period: 2000BCE-1200BCE
Location: 34.7081°N, 35.9861°E
Description
Sumur, located in modern-day Syria, was once the capital of the Amurru Kingdom, an ancient Semitic-speaking state that existed from around 2000 BCE to 1200 BCE. Positioned strategically between the Levant and Mesopotamia, Sumur played an important role as a political and economic center. Today, the region surrounding Sumur offers a glimpse into ancient civilization through archaeological sites, while the modern village reflects the rich cultural heritage of the area.
Modern Remains
Today, the modern remains of Sumur are located in the region of Syria’s coastal area. While much of the ancient capital has been lost to time, excavations in the surrounding areas have revealed valuable insights into its architecture, city planning, and daily life. Visitors can explore remnants of fortifications, temples, and residential areas. The ancient site of Sumur is part of a larger archaeological landscape, where evidence of the Amurru Kingdom’s interactions with neighboring civilizations can still be found. Although the exact remains of Sumur itself are limited, nearby sites such as Tell Abu Saraya and Tell Ashara offer significant archeological insights into the period, with pottery, inscriptions, and ruins that illustrate the life and times of the kingdom.