Despite ongoing regional tensions in 2024, Israeli archaeologists have continued their vital work, unearthing remarkable artifacts that span millennia of human history. While the pace of excavations has slowed—with approximately 120 sites explored compared to the typical 250-300—the findings have been no less extraordinary.
“Despite the difficult year we experienced due to the war, the Israel Antiquities Authority continued to carry out rescue excavations throughout the country,” notes IAA director-general Eli Escusido, highlighting the organization’s commitment to preserving historical heritage even in challenging times.
Among the year’s most significant discoveries is an ancient stone road in northern Jerusalem’s Mount Hotzvim, dating to the Second Temple period. This pathway may have historic religious significance, potentially connecting to the previously discovered “Pilgrim’s Road.”
A particularly remarkable maritime discovery came in the form of a 3,300-year-old cargo vessel, found remarkably intact 56 miles off Israel’s Mediterranean coast. The Late Bronze Era ship represents one of only three documented shipwrecks from this period in the Mediterranean.
The discoveries weren’t limited to professional archaeologists. In Haifa, 13-year-old Yair Whiteson made headlines when he discovered an 1,800-year-old bronze ring bearing an engraving of the Greek goddess Athena, dating to the Late Roman Period.
“This region has an incredibly rich and vast history that dates back thousands of years including all the way to the time of the Bible and beyond,” explains Dina Orenbach, consul and director of the Western Region of the United States for the Israeli Ministry of Tourism. “Sites are regularly uncovered helping archaeologists piece together the story of the land’s ancient history of cultures, religions and historic leaders.”
Other notable finds include a 2,000-year-old multi-compartment stone container from the Second Temple era, now housed in the Israel Museum, and a 2,700-year-old black stone seal from the First Temple period, bearing the name “Yehoʼezer ben Hoshʼayahu.” The seal’s discovery provides valuable insights into literacy levels during this period.
The IAA has made these discoveries accessible to the public through various museums and research institutes. Furthermore, they’ve opened opportunities for public participation through volunteer programs, allowing history enthusiasts over 18 to participate in excavations.
