Israeli Ministry investigating whether US violated law by giving stolen artifact to PA

The Heritage Ministry said last week that the legality of the repatriation “is being examined by the archaeology staff officer with the legal counsel, which will examine all aspects of the matter, including the Oslo Accords that the US has signed.”
Archaeologists unearth ancient moat surrounding Jerusalem, mysterious hand imprint

“In the eras of knights’ battles, swords, arrows, and charging cavalry, the fortifications of Jerusalem were formidable and complex,” said archaeologist Amit Re’em.
When archeology meets the exact sciences: University of Haifa and the Technion launch new collaboration

The Technion and Haifa University held a scientific conference on Wednesday as part of a first-of-its-kind collaboration on technological methods in archeology and the study of marine cultures. Eight archaeologists who are already utilizing technology in their studies gave lectures describing their work. Archaeologists from the University of Haifa presented their research on DNA extraction […]
1,300-year-old luxurious fabrics found in the Arava offer proof of ‘Israeli Silk Road’

Colorful cotton and silk fabrics recently uncovered by Israeli archaeologists in the Arava desert offer proof of unknown ancient trade routes connecting the Far East to Europe passing through the region, the University of Haifa and the Israeli Antiquities Authority announced Wednesday. “Our findings seem to provide the first evidence that there was also an […]
Mesha Stele Mystery solved: King David was real, researchers say

Newly concluded research using advanced photographic techniques claim to having ended a longstanding dispute over a 2,800-year-old Moabite inscription, concluding that it is indeed referring to the royal Israelite House of David. The Mesha Stele, also known as the Moabite Stone, was discovered intact in Jordan roughly 15 miles east of the Dead Sea in […]
After 70 years, scientists have finally given a face to the 9,000-year-old “Jericho Skull”.

A new technique allowed scientists to create a detailed image of a resident of Jericho who lived approximately 5,000 years before Abraham came to Israel. While the image had several surprises for the researchers, the face produced was described as being remarkably similar to people walking around today. Seven skulls were unearthed by British archaeologist […]
4,000-year-old ostrich eggs eaten in prehistoric Israel uncovered in the Negev

Several ostrich eggs were uncovered in the Negev next to a prehistoric fire pit, the Israel Antiquities Authority announced Thursday. “This is a very important find that—with the help of modern scientific methods—can teach us a lot about the nomadic people of the desert in ancient times,” said Lauren Davis, the IAA excavation director. Experts […]
Israeli archaeologists uncover 6th-century Church with unique mosaics near Jericho

The remains of a large 1500-year-old church ornated with colorful mosaics were uncovered in the area near Jericho by the Archaeology Unit of the Coordination of Government Activities in the Territories, COGAT announced on Wednesday. “I am excited about the amazing historical find, that joins a number of discoveries made by the Civil Administration’s archeology […]
Recent study reveals secret of Roman magnificent buildings

Modern concrete has a lifespan of fewer than 100 years, so it is a mystery that Roman structures made from concrete are still holding up. A recent study may have solved this mystery. Romans were master builders who left their mark all across the ancient world. Their influence is still evident today thanks to a […]
US returns looted artifact to the PA. Some experts question the decision

A looted Assyrian ivory cosmetic spoon dating back to some 2,700 years ago was handed over to the Palestinian Authority by the Manhattan District Attorney on Thursday. Some experts however expressed perplexity about the decision, calling it “political” rather than based on scientific reasons. The artifact was seized pursuant to a multi-national criminal investigation into […]