A stratigraphic analysis of artefacts, mainly pottery, from mound site in southern unguja island, Zanzibar

This study presents the results from an archaeological study of mound site conducted in Makunduchi, Unguja Island between November and December 2009. Results are mainly based on both survey and sub-surface materials and then supplemented by documentary records. The aim of this study was to establish a long cultural sequence of the study area. Other objective of the study included identification of cultural materials that are evident on mound site. This is the first archaeological study to focus on a mound. Former studies focused on open sites and limestone caves. The study established four pottery traditions namely Early Iron Working (EIW), Triangular Incised Ware (TIW), transition tradition and Swahili tradition. The range of findings shows that the mound had a long history of human settlements dating back to Early Iron Working period and therefore the mound was continuously formed from EIW to Swahili period. This strengthened the evidence that there was the occurrence of pre- Islamic settlements in Zanzibar. The study is a continuation of an on-going research about ancient communities on islands conducted by professional archaeologists. Results of the study would considerably contribute towards better understanding of ancient culture history of Zanzibar.