IIMAS –
The International Institute for Mesopotamian Area Studies

     If there is a mold to the modern conception of the world, to rules of social living, to the expression of thoughts in writing, its first explicit traces will be found in the "Fertile Crescent," the ancient Near East, along the banks of the Tigris and the Euphrates.

     As more and more fragments of homes and temples, pottery and tablets are freed from the grip of the earth, we begin to decode the patterns of our cultural imprinting. We come to a better understanding of our civilizational make-up, of – ourselves.

      Since 1973, IIMAS – The International Institute for Mesopotamian Area Studies has been focusing on a crucial transition in this process: the birth and early growth of civilization. Our excavations have uncovered new data, and we have introduced new methods of analysis, developed an extensive series of publications, contributed to several exhibits, and produced a number of education programs.

      The IIMAS Officers and Trustees are responsible for the raising and disposition of funds and for decisions pertaining to the various projects undertaken by the Institute. The more recent reports are available for review.

     A distinguished Board of Scientific Advisors provides guidance and assistance in scholarly matters, especially with regard to publications.
     The Research Fellows study and develop specific aspects of IIMAS research projects.

     IIMAS is recognized as a 501(C)(3) Public Charity by the IRS and donations are tax deductible to the full extent of the law.

      The IIMAS logo is taken from a seal impression found on a tablet excavated at Terqa. It represents two divine figures, jointly holding a staff in an upright position. We view it as a symbol of cross-cultural cooperation, whereby we reach out for each other and for the common culture which we uphold together – whether we are ancient or modern, professional or layman, Easterner or Westerner.