A treasure has been found in Israel whose age dates back to the first years of our era

During archaeological work in Jerusalem, in the Qiryat Gat region, an ancient Roman treasure was found, consisting of gold and silver coins and women’s jewelry.

The excavations, organized by the Israeli Antifacts Treatment Department, were funded by the Economic Development Corporation for the Management of the Qiryat Gat Industrial Park. The purpose of the excavation was to find buildings of the Roman and Byzantine periods. The treasure was found in the land, on the territory of a villa already excavated by scientists. To the surprise of archaeologists, the valuables were simply wrapped in fabric, which had almost decayed by the time the treasure was discovered.

According to archaeologist Emil Aladjem, who leads the excavation: “The treasure includes magnificent gold jewelry, including earrings in the shape of flowers, a ring with a precious stone, with the seal of the winged goddess on it, as well as about 140 gold and silver coins of various denominations. " Coins date back to the time of Emperor Nero, Nerve and Trajan, who ruled the Roman Empire from 54 to 117. The archaeologist added that “the composition of the numismatic exhibits and their quality correspond to previously found treasures dating back to the time of the Bar Kochba rebellion.”

Probably, the valuables were hidden hastily, at the time of impending danger, perhaps a rich woman who wrapped them in her shawl and sheltered in the courtyard of the house. The house was subsequently destroyed, and the treasures remained hidden under its debris. Now the treasure has been handed over for processing in the laboratory of the Department of Restoration of Israel Antiquities Management in Jerusalem.

Anna Sidorova

Photo: AFP PHOTO / HO / ISRAEL ANTIQUITIES AUTHORITY / CLARA AMIT