Harrat Khaybar, often dubbed as the "gates of hell," isn't just a name conjured for dramatic effect. This vast volcanic field, sprawling over 14,000 square kilometers in Saudi Arabia's desert terrain, paints a picture of fiery eruptions that shaped its rugged surface over millions of years.
The scars etched into the landscape are remnants of volcanic activity dating back over five million years, with the most recent eruptions recorded between 600 and 700 AD, according to NASA. Despite its tumultuous past, this inhospitable terrain surprisingly reveals evidence of human settlement amidst the volcanic turmoil.
Enigmatic circular stone formations, reminiscent of those found in Europe, dot the arid expanse, hinting at a forgotten chapter of human history. These formations remained a mystery until the advent of satellite imagery, which unveiled their true nature as remnants of Neolithic communities.
Today, experts marvel at the Khaybar area's uniqueness, characterized by its diverse array of structures remarkably preserved by the arid climate. The European Geosciences Union (EGU) hailed it as a "complete prehistoric landscape frozen in time" in 2018.
Among the approximately 400 structures dating back up to 9,000 years, volcanic stones were ingeniously utilized to construct villages, fences, and intriguing formations like "kites" and "gates." The so-called "desert kites," believed to be ancient animal traps, pose a puzzling question: Were they merely hunting tools or early attempts at animal domestication?
Similarly, the enigmatic "gates," situated on the slopes of a volcanic dome, defy easy explanation. These stone-built structures, resembling field gates from above, stand as some of the oldest man-made formations in the landscape. Yet, their purpose remains elusive, prompting speculation among researchers.
David Kennedy, a professor at the University of Western Australia, noted their stark contrast with typical human habitats or animal traps, labeling them as an enduring mystery. Despite extensive study, no clear function has emerged for these enigmatic gates, leaving researchers puzzled.
While the purpose of these structures may elude us, insights into ancient life in this volatile environment offer tantalizing clues. Dr. Hugh Thomas, a Lecturer in Archaeology at the University of Sydney, suggests that during the Neolithic period, Harrat Khaybar was far from the barren desert we envision today. Instead, it likely supported thriving communities and abundant wildlife.
The search for answers has led researchers to unconventional methods, including utilizing Google Earth to locate and document these mysterious formations. Despite facing challenges in accessing the region directly, satellite imagery has proven invaluable in uncovering Saudi Arabia's rich archaeological heritage.
Archaeologists used Google Earth to locate and examine the mysterious ‘gates’. Photo: CNES/Airbus, via Google Earth
As we continue to unravel the mysteries of Harrat Khaybar, it serves as a testament to the resilience of ancient civilizations and the enduring allure of the unknown. In this rugged landscape, where fiery eruptions once dominated, lies a treasure trove of history waiting to be discovered.
