In a remarkable discovery amidst the recent conflict between Israel and Hamas, Israeli reserve soldiers from the 282nd Artillery Regiment stumbled upon a centuries-old treasure near the Gaza border. Netanel Melchior and Alon Segev, on duty during the war, uncovered a remarkably well-preserved 1,500-year-old Byzantine-era oil lamp within Israeli territory.
Their chance encounter with history occurred as they scouted a staging area, where they noticed an intriguing round-shaped object buried beneath mud and debris. Intrigued by its unusual appearance, Melchior diligently cleaned the artifact, revealing its true significance. Recognizing the potential historical value, Melchior shared an image of the find on social media, sparking immediate interest.
The soldiers, realizing the importance of their discovery, promptly contacted the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA). Sarah Tal, an IAA archaeologist, received the artifact from the soldiers, identifying it as a “sandal candle” from the Byzantine period, likely dating back to the 5th or 6th century CE.
According to Israeli law, any man-made object predating 1700 must be surrendered to the IAA within 15 days. The collaboration between the IAA and IDF aims to preserve historical and archaeological findings. Eli Eskosido, Director-General of the Antiquities Authority, commended the soldiers for their vigilance and civic responsibility during a tumultuous period.
“The war often unveils extraordinary situations, even in the realm of archaeology. The land of Israel, particularly this surrounding region, holds a wealth of history and ancient treasures,” Eskosido emphasized.
“In the event of discovering an ancient relic, it’s crucial to inform inspectors to gather as much information as possible about the site and its historical significance,” Eskosido stressed, highlighting the importance of preserving and documenting such discoveries.
This unexpected uncovering of a relic from centuries past amidst conflict underscores the enduring historical richness of the region, offering a glimpse into its ancient past amid the turmoil of the present.
Sources By Agencies
