The Republic of Sudan and the Republic of South Sudan between them cover almost 1 million square miles (2.59 million square kilometres). Within their borders lies a land of great diversity with a climate ranging from extreme desert conditions in the north to tropical rainforests in the south west. It is equally diverse ethnically and culturally. For thousands of years it has been the zone of contact between the peoples of Central Africa and those of Egypt and the Mediterranean world.
 
Founded in 1991 the Sudan Archaeological Research Society provides a focus for anyone interested in the archaeology of the Sudan. Through lectures, seminars, its bulletin and newsletters, the Society aims to promote interest in the Sudan's cultural heritage and raise awareness of its place in the history of mankind. Most significantly, the Society mounts expeditions to excavate and record threatened sites before they are lost to knowledge for ever.