Excavations at the Dide West 1 site in eastern Senegal have revealed a remarkably preserved iron smelting workshop, which was constructed between the 4th century BC and the 4th century AD and was active for nearly eight centuries.
In Europe, the Iron Age is typically defined as spanning from approximately 800 BC to the conclusion of the 1st century AD, but these timeframes vary significantly across the globe.
The earliest indications of iron production are believed to trace back to the second millennium BC in regions like Anatolia (present-day Türkiye) and the Caucasus.
“The iron smelting workshop at the Dide Ouest 1 site in Senegal provides valuable insights into the development of iron metallurgy in West Africa,” stated UNIGE archaeologist Melissa Morel and her research team.
The workshop features a substantial accumulation of nearly 100 tons of slag, around 30 used tuyeres (earthen pipes that channel air into the furnace) semicircularly arranged, and 35 circular furnace bases approximately 30 cm deep.
This iron production likely catered to local demands, particularly for crafting agricultural tools.
“Due to its exceptional preservation, historical significance, duration of use, and unique technical characteristics, this site stands out,” remarked Dr. Morel.
“This offers a rare opportunity to analyze the continuity and evolution of iron smelting technologies over time.”
“At Dide West 1, the layout, furnace structure, and waste materials reveal a tradition identified as FAL02.”
“This type of furnace includes a small circular design with a removable chimney and large clay tuyeres.”
“A significant feature of these tuyeres is their multi-outlet design, which connects small openings to the main channel via vertical side ducts, enabling optimal air distribution to the furnace base.”
“Another notable aspect is the innovative use of palm kernel seeds as packing at the furnace bottom—a method not previously documented.”
“Despite its prolonged operation, this workshop’s traditions have shown remarkable stability, with only minor technical modifications,” said Dr. Anne Mayol, archaeologist at UNIGE and the Institute for Global Studies.
“This continuity stands in contrast to metallurgical practices in other African contexts, underscoring the importance of understanding the technical and cultural decisions made by early iron producers.”
The team’s research paper was published in the African Archaeology Review.
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M. Morel et al. Early and long-term evolution of iron smelting technology at Dide West 1, Fareme Valley, eastern Senegal. African Archaeology Review, published online March 25, 2026. doi: 10.1007/s10437-026-09653-z
Source: www.sci.news
