Catering to Trade: Hospitality in the Ancient Iranian Site of Godin Tepe

Once a lively outpost on the early Mesopotamian trade route, Godin Tepe now sits in ruins in Iran. Controversial archaeological excavations in the 1960s and 70s highlighted some of the rich cultural elements of this ancient site. Evidence of beer and wine-making, along with a well-fortified settlement, suggest that weary traders would have found Godin Tepe a pleasant place to rest their heads while on long journeys with their wares.

Controversial Excavations

Godin Tepe is an archaeological site situated in the Kangāvar valley of Luristan, in the western part of central Iran, approximately halfway between Hamadān and Kermānšāh. This site lies in the middle of the Zagros Mountains, and was occupied from around 5000 – 500 BC, with a hiatus from about 1600 to 750 BC.

The site was first discovered in 1961 through an archaeological survey sponsored by the University Museum of the University of Pennsylvania. Archaeological work began there in 1965. Excavations continued intermittently over the next three decades, during which archaeologists made numerous important finds that enabled them to gain a better understanding of Godin Tepe’s rich history.  

One of the graves found at the site. (Stony Brook University)