Speaking from an excavation site in Jordan, Bonatz challenged long-held assumptions about ancient ethnicities and shed light on how modern archaeology reconstructs the past.
Prof. Bonatz began by highlighting how much archaeology has changed since the 19th century. Once characterized by colonial interests and the search for museum-worthy treasures, modern archaeology is now a highly interdisciplinary and scientific endeavor: "Today, we work with biologists, geologists, and anthropologists," Bonatz explained and said digitalization has transformed the field, allowing for 3D reconstructions of ancient structures. However, he warned of the "digital fiction" risk, where reconstructions might look impressive but can sometimes overstep what is scientifically proven.
The "Aramean" Label: An External Construct?
One of the most provocative points discussed in the interview was the nature of Aramean identity between the 13th and 7th centuries BC. According to Prof. Bonatz, the term "Aramean" was largely an external construct used by the Assyrians and biblical sources to categorize various nomadic tribes: "The ruling classes in the so-called Aramean kingdoms did not necessarily refer to themselves as 'Arameans' in an ethnic sense," Bonatz noted. Instead, they identified with their specific cities or dynasties. A collective "Aramean" ethnic identity was not a sudden occurrence but a slow process of cultural formation that took centuries to solidify, likely reaching its peak as late as the 5th century BC, he explained.
In contrast to the decentralized nature of early nomadic tribes, the Assyrians possessed a strong, centralized state identity very early on. Centered around the city of Ashur and the god of the same name, the Assyrian identity was a powerful unifying force. As the empire expanded, it implemented its culture and administrative structures across the region, making the "Assyrian" identity highly visible in the archaeological record—from specific pottery styles (the "Coca-Cola bottle" of the ancient world) to monumental art.
The interview also touched upon the controversial and much-debated link between the terms "Assyrian" and "Syrian." Prof. Bonatz expressed his support for the research of Prof. Robert Rollinger, particularly regarding the Cineköy Inscription from the 8th century BC. This bilingual inscription provides evidence that "Syrian" (Suroye/Suraye) is indeed a shortened form of "Assyrian." The linguistic evolution shows a continuity of identity that persists within the Assyrian-speaking communities to this day.
Tur Abdin: A Region of Refuge and Faith
The Tur Abdin region (modern-day Southeast Turkey) was described by the professor as a historical "problem zone" for the Assyrian Empire, a rugged mountain refuge where tribes could escape central control. Over time, this geography made it the perfect location for the early Christian monasteries of the Syriac Orthodox Church, such as Mor Gabriel. Bonatz emphasized that while these monasteries are living symbols of faith, archaeological investigations into their foundations could reveal even deeper layers of history.
Closing the discussion, Prof. Bonatz offered advice to Assyrians, urging them to value archaeological artifacts not just as "stones," but as vital links to their heritage: "Don't just look at the ancient past of three millennia ago," he advised. "Look at the medieval and recent history as well. Cultural heritage is lived through language, dance, and traditions."
For students interested in archaeology, his message was clear: "The field requires passion and commitment, but it offers a unique way to understand the intercultural connections that shaped our world."
