French Archaeologist Highlights Saudi-French Collaboration in Farasan Islands

Saudi Arabia – French archaeologist and researcher Solene Marion de Proce hosted a conference titled “The Saudi-French Archaeological Project in the Farasan Islands: Past and Present” at Alliance Française Saudi Arabia in Hay Jameel, Jeddah, on Sunday.

The event provided insight into the historical significance and recent discoveries on the Farasan Islands, emphasizing the outcomes of a longstanding scientific partnership between France and Saudi Arabia in the field of archaeology.

Key Archaeological Findings

During her presentation, Marion de Proce detailed the collaborative efforts between the Heritage Commission of the Saudi Ministry of Culture and University Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne, which form part of the Saudi-French archaeological mission on the Farasan Islands.

“We discussed the project’s history, sharing both past results and the most recent discoveries following the completion of our winter 2025 season,” she said.

She highlighted the significance of an initial Latin inscription discovered by Farasani scholar Ibrahim Miftah, which played a pivotal role in understanding ancient maritime trade routes and Roman history in the region. Subsequent excavations led to the formal establishment of the Saudi-French archaeological mission.

“The Farasan Islands serve as a unique archaeological laboratory,” she explained. “The sites are exceptionally well-preserved, offering a clear window into the region’s cultural and historical evolution over time.”

Among the mission’s most remarkable discoveries were:

• A South Arabian-style temple
• Long-duration human settlements
• A Roman military camp, marking the southernmost Roman presence ever discovered

The Future of Archaeological Research

Marion de Proce expressed confidence in the future of archaeological research in the Jazan/Farasan region, emphasizing its rich historical potential.

“I believe there is still so much left to uncover. The interest in the region’s history continues to grow, and people are eager to learn more about their past,” she noted.

Strengthening Saudi-French Cultural Ties

The conference was part of a broader initiative by Alliance Française Saudi Arabia, in collaboration with the French Consulate in Jeddah, to promote scholarly discussions on Saudi and Middle Eastern history.

Larry Lamartiniere, Managing Director of Alliance Française Saudi Arabia, emphasized the significance of such events in fostering knowledge-sharing and dialogue.

“This conference exemplifies the strong relationship between Saudi Arabia and France, particularly in the field of archaeology,” he said. “Our goal is to make Alliance Française a hub for knowledge and discussion, where experts can share their research with a wider audience.”

Notably, the lecture was conducted in English, allowing for greater accessibility to non-French speakers.

The Saudi-French archaeological partnership continues to shed light on the region’s ancient past, further strengthening cultural and academic cooperation between the two nations.