Archaeology Odyssey

We have been calling Tell Mozan/Urkesh an Early Bronze Age (3150–2200 B.C.) Hurrian city. But how can you identify an archaeological site as belonging to a specific ethnic group?

A government official is embroiled in a sex scandal and accused of misappropriating government property. A strong-willed woman sues her mistress for her freedom. A poor fellow loses his mother, sister and household gods to his creditors.

Readers continue to sound off on our recent announcement of an exhibit of Pompeiian porn (see Field Notes, AO 03:05 and The Forum, AO 04:01):

Like the cave paintings at Lascaux, the ancient necropolis beneath St. Peter’s Basilica has suffered decades of damage caused by, of all things, human breath.

Admission: Admission to the necropolis is by reservation only, and a fee is charged. Visitors should go to the Ufficio Scavi (Excavations Office) located along the left side of the Basilica. Tell the Swiss Guard on duty that you are going to the Ufficio Scavi. Groups are kept small. It is best to sign up for one of the tours as soon as you arrive in Rome, although occasionally visitors are lucky and can join a tour almost immediately. Tours last approximately 60 to 90 minutes.