The Archaeology of Lower Sindh and Las Bela Revised: Along the River, Down to the Sea

Unlike broader studies of the Indus Civilisation, this book focuses on the coastal regions of Sindh and Las Bela (Balochistan), providing granular detail on local adaptations and chronologies. It combines geoarchaeology, lithic analysis, radiocarbon dating, and environmental reconstruction, offering a more integrated understanding than single-discipline studies. The book covers an extensive timeline (Palaeolithic to Bronze Age) and presents 162 new radiocarbon dates from 19 groups of sites, which significantly refine the chronology of the region. It also highlights the work of Pakistani, Italian, and international scholars, emphasising the importance of local partnerships in archaeological research. 

The manuscript synthesizes decades (35 years) of fieldwork, surveys, and excavations conducted by the Italian Archaeological Mission in Sindh and Las Bela, presenting a wealth of new data, radiocarbon dates, and interpretations. While some findings have been published in journal articles, no single volume has comprehensively addressed the prehistory of these regions. This volume consolidates and expands upon them, offering a comprehensive, interdisciplinary perspective and filling a critical gap in South Asian Archaeology.
The integration of geoarchaeological, lithic, ceramic, and radiocarbon data provides a robust framework for understanding prehistoric settlement patterns, resource exploitation, and environmental changes. The emphasis on chert mining, shell middens, and coastal adaptations is groundbreaking for the region. The manuscript’s strength lies in its detailed presentation of fieldwork methodologies, site formation processes, and the cultural significance of chert exploitation and shell middens. The inclusion of previously unpublished data adds relevance to the work.

The publication project is directed by Dr. Paolo Biagi.