A groundbreaking underwater excavation in the Persian Gulf has revealed the remains of "lapis-incrusted" cedar chariots at a site belonging to the Dilmun civilization. These 3,800-year-old vehicles were not intended for warfare but for the "Harbor-Blessing" festivals, where they were ceremonially submerged or paraded along the coastline to ensure maritime prosperity and the safe return of trading vessels.
The use of imported cedar and high-quality lapis lazuli indicates the immense wealth generated by Dilmun's trade networks and the high priority placed on religious festivals. Analysts believe these ceremonies were the precursors to modern regional maritime traditions, celebrating the sacred connection between the island community and the life-giving sea that surrounded them.