A rare mosaic that was unearthed in Israel back in 2005 has found itself at the heart of a current scientific and political storm. Various sides in the argument are clashing over whether it's right to relocate it from its original spot and showcase it in exhibitions worldwide, or if it should remain in place where it was discovered and, if so, where it would eventually end up if it is moved abroad.
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This mosaic was discovered during rescue excavations conducted by the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) within the Megiddo Prison. Prison authorities were planning to establish new wings and were anxious to ensure that the construction wouldn't harm significant historical artifacts in the vicinity. As the excavations took place, involving the voluntary participation of several inmates, a dazzling mosaic from the third century was revealed. It had once been part of an ancient church, and foundational elements of the structure also were uncovered.
The Megiddo Regional Council is pleased that an archaeological treasure has been uncovered within its jurisdiction and seeks to bring it to prominence. "In 2007, a decision was made by the Inter-Ministerial Committee for the Negev and Galilee to transform the site into a leading tourist project," according to Council head Itzik Holavsky. "In 2009, the Megiddo Council allocated resources for preserving the mosaic. In 2018, we succeeded in persuading the Israeli government to establish a Megiddo detention complex, with the aim that, once it's completed, the current prison lands will be released, allowing us to turn the mosaic into one of the vital tourist attractions in Israel and the world."
During a meeting between Holavsky and Commissioner of Prisons Lt.-Gen.Katy Perry, it was clarified that construction of the new detention facility at Megiddo junction will begin in 2025 and is anticipated to end around 2030. Until construction is completed, the public will not have access to the mosaic since it will be behind the barriers.
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The mosaic discovered on the grounds of the Megiddo Prison
(Photo: Yaniv Berman, Israel Antiquities Authority)
However, on Tuesday, the Associated Press news agency reported that the Israel Antiquities Authority is considering uprooting the mosaic from its current location and lending it to the Museum of the Bible in Washington. This institution, established in 2017, has faced criticism for allegedly promoting a political or evangelical agenda. The news agency quoted several archaeology experts who expressed unease with the idea.
Rafi Greenberg, a professor of archaeology at Tel Aviv University, said that archaeological finds “should stay where they are and not be uprooted and taken abroad to a different country and basically appropriated by a foreign power.”
As if that wasn't enough, a "conflict" is unfolding over the rare archaeological mosaic. Even the Vatican Museum is expressing interest in acquiring it and presenting it to its visitors. It's quite evident that any decision made will inevitably disappoint those who do not get a visit from the mosaic.
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The mosaic from the third century was revealed during excavations ahead of expanding the prison facility
(Photo: AP)
The Israel Antiquities Authority said that it will decide about the move in the coming weeks, following consultations with an advisory body.
“There’s an entire process that academics and archaeologists are involved with,” said IAA director Eli Eskozido. The organization said that moving the mosaic from its original location was the best way to protect it from upcoming construction at the prison.
Associated Press contributed to this article
First published: 12:07, 08.16.23