Archaeologist Unearths Ancient Jordan's Secrets

The archaeological world mourns Konstantinos Politis, celebrated for his extensive work on Jordan's Dead Sea shore. Politis, affectionately known as Dino, excavated the Sanctuary of Lot, uncovering a sixth-century Byzantine basilica near a cave believed to have sheltered Lot after fleeing Sodom. This discovery, made between 1988 and 1996, brought to light early Christian history and evidence of human activity dating back to the Bronze Age.

Beyond excavation, Politis was a passionate preservationist. He championed the creation of the Museum at the Lowest Place on Earth, which opened in 2012, ensuring discoveries remained within their context. He also initiated conservation programs, training local staff in vital museological techniques. His efforts extended to protecting threatened sites, like a large Nabataean and Roman cemetery near Khirbat Qazone.

Politis's research also illuminated ancient industrial practices. At Ghawr as-Safi, he discovered Jordan's largest medieval sugar factory and gathered evidence of ancient indigo cultivation. This led to a 2013 Unesco project, reviving indigo farming with the Safi Women's Association, fostering community engagement and economic opportunity.

Born in Greece, Politis pursued archaeology across Europe and the US, first arriving in Jordan in 1984. He held positions at the British Museum and contributed to numerous publications, earning international acclaim, including being dubbed the "Greek Indiana Jones." He passed away after a series of strokes.