The identification of pathways on harra surfaces in north-eastern Jordan and their relation to ancient human mobility.

Abstract This paper calls attention to the presence of countless ancient paths on the basalt-covered surfaces characteristic of harra landscapes in north-eastern Jordan. These paths have developed over the course of at least the last two millennia, and potentially prior to that, by trafficking of nomadic peoples and animals. These paths facilitated movements through terrains that were otherwise difficult to traverse. Paths can be recognised on high-resolution satellite imagery, which allows for systematic documentation and the reconstruction of potential routes through the landscape. The identification and mapping of these paths is important for better understanding mobility patterns of nomadic peoples who inhabited these desert landscapes in antiquity. Highlights • Ancient paths were identified on harra surfaces in northeastern Jordan. • Paths can be systematically mapped using high resolution satellite imagery. • Paths developed as a result of trafficking of people and animals. • Paths were used to traverse the landscape at least for the last 2000 years. • Routes relate to nomadic exploitation of the environment on a local scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]