Definition: The Ballana (or X-Culture) is the name given to a pre-Christian, post-Meroitic culture of Egypt and Nubia, dominant in Lower Egypt between about A.D. 250-550. The primary difference between Ballana and its predecessor Meroitic is the lack of monumental architecture, both for burials and temples; although the tombs of the elite were quite substantial. Excavations at Ballana and Qustal by W.B. Emery and L. Kirwan in the 1930s revealed enormous, richly decorated interments, some of the richest in Nubia.
This glossary entry is part of the Dictionary of Archaeology. Sources for the term include the references listed on the front page of the Dictionary, and the websites listed in the sidebar. Any mistakes are the responsibility of Kris Hirst.
This glossary entry is part of the Dictionary of Archaeology. Sources for the term include the references listed on the front page of the Dictionary, and the websites listed in the sidebar. Any mistakes are the responsibility of Kris Hirst.
Also Known As: X-culture
Examples: Shellal, Sesebi, Ballana, and Qustul
