Paolo Matthiae facts for kids
Paolo Matthiae (born in 1940) is a well-known Italian archaeologist. He is famous for discovering the ancient city of Ebla in Syria. His work has helped us learn a lot about the history and art of the ancient Near East.
Quick facts for kids
Paolo Matthiae
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| Born | 1940 (age 84–85) |
| Nationality | Italian |
| Alma mater | Sapienza University of Rome |
| Occupation | Archaeologist |
| Known for | Discovery of Ebla |
| Awards |  Order of Civil Merit (Excellent class) (2023) |
Paolo Matthiae is a professor at the University of Rome La Sapienza. He teaches about the History of Art in the ancient Near East. Since 1963, he has led the Ebla Expedition. This means he was in charge of the team that found and excavated Ebla. He has written many books and articles about Ebla. He also writes about the art history of Mesopotamia and Syria.
In the early 1970s, Matthiae also helped with another important dig. This was at a place called Tell Fray in the Euphrates Valley. This area was going to be covered by water from a new dam. So, archaeologists worked quickly to save historical treasures.
Matthiae is part of several important groups. These include the Accademia Nazionale dei Lincei in Rome. He is also a member of the Academie des Inscriptions et Belles-Lettres. He has received an honorary degree from the Autonomous University of Madrid. This special degree recognizes his great achievements.
Contents
Discovering Ebla
Paolo Matthiae's most famous discovery is the ancient city of Ebla. This city was a powerful kingdom thousands of years ago. It was located in what is now modern Syria. Before Matthiae's work, Ebla was mostly unknown.
The Ebla Expedition
The Ebla Expedition began in 1963. Matthiae led the team of archaeologists. They worked hard to uncover the city's ruins. Their efforts revealed a rich history. They found palaces, temples, and many artifacts.
What Was Found at Ebla
One of the most amazing finds was the Royal Archives of Ebla. This was a collection of thousands of clay tablets. These tablets were written in an ancient language. They contained records of Ebla's government and daily life. They told stories of kings, trade, and laws. These tablets helped experts learn a lot about Ebla. They showed how important Ebla was in the ancient world.
Books by Paolo Matthiae
Paolo Matthiae has shared his knowledge in many books. These books help people learn about his discoveries. They also teach about the history of the ancient Near East.
- Ebla: An Empire Rediscovered
- Ebla: La città rivelata
- Aux origines de la Syrie : Ebla retrouvée
Awards and Recognition
Paolo Matthiae has received many honors for his work. These awards show how important his discoveries are. They also recognize his contributions to archaeology.
Syrian Honor
Syria:
- Order of Civil Merit (Excellent class) (2023)
This award from Syria is a high honor. It shows how much Syria values his work. His discoveries have helped us understand Syria's ancient past.
Images for kids
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Ribbon for the Order of Civil Merit (Excellent class)
