Archaeologists from the Israel Antiquities Authority have uncovered a Byzantine-era monastery, approximately 1,500 years old, featuring a vibrant mosaic floor inscribed with a biblical verse from Deuteronomy 28:6: "You will be blessed when you come in, and blessed when you go out."
The excavation, conducted as part of development projects for a new neighborhood, where 5,600 housing units are planned, revealed a site of significant historical importance.
Monastery found in southern Israel
(Video: Israel Antiquities Authority)
The Israel Antiquities Authority reported that the excavation uncovered remains of at least ten structures, including the monastery, a winepress, and a large storage facility. The monastery, dating back to the Byzantine period (5th–6th centuries CE), is part of a larger ancient settlement that dates back to the Roman period and was inhabited for around 600 years.
Artifacts discovered at the site include imported pottery, coins, marble items, glass vessels, and metal tools, all of which indicate that the settlement was affluent and significant in its time.
Mosaic and monastic structures
The monastery’s mosaic floor is intricately decorated with crosses, lions, doves, amphorae, flowers, and geometric patterns. At its center is the Greek inscription containing the verse from Deuteronomy. The detailed geometric designs incorporate very small mosaic stones, emphasizing the crosses in the design.
In addition to the monastery, a sophisticated winepress was also discovered, which had undergone multiple renovations over time. The mosaic floors of the fermentation cells and collection pit were made of white and blue stones, and traces of red paint could still be seen on the plaster of the collection pits. The floor of the northern collection pit was made of stone slabs, some of which bore Greek letters, likely used as markings by the builders of the winepress. The meticulous construction and repairs suggest significant investment of time, effort, and resources in its development.
Excavation directors Shira Lifshitz and Maayan Margulis from the Israel Antiquities Authority stated, "The ancient settlement is located along a major road connecting the mountains to the coastal plain and likely served smaller surrounding settlements as well as travelers. This is the largest and most significant site uncovered in the region from the Roman and Byzantine periods.
The finds indicate continuous settlement, starting in the Early Roman period (1st century CE) and lasting until the end of the Byzantine period (6th century CE), at which point, the settlement expanded significantly with the construction of the monastery and winepress. Additionally, there is evidence of local pottery production, including kiln waste, refuse pits, distorted pottery, and unique items specific to this site."
Preserving discoveries
Svetlana Talis, Director of the Southern District at the Israel Antiquities Authority, emphasized the historical perspicacity of Kiryat Gat and its surroundings, highlighting the centrality of the area in ancient times. The mosaic floor will be carefully transferred to an open site in the city for public display, ensuring its preservation and accessibility.
Mark Avrahami, Head of Artistic Preservation at the Israel Antiquities Authority, described the mosaic as one of the most unique ever discovered in Israel. He noted that relocating mosaics is a complex process requiring great skill and precision. The mosaic will soon be transferred to the Antiquities Authority’s mosaic workshop for conservation before its public exhibition.
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Eli Escusido, Director of the Israel Antiquities Authority, commented on the significance of the discovery: "Development projects by the Israel Land Authority provide opportunities to glimpse into the lives of ancient generations. Together, we are working to showcase these findings as part of a policy aimed at connecting local residents to the historical stories near their homes."
Israel Land Authority Director Yanki Quint concluded, "The discovery of the monastery during development highlights the connection between past and future, and between preservation and progress."