A 1,500-year-old Byzantine monastery, uncovered near the city of Kiryat Gat, about 35 miles south of Tel Aviv, includes one of the most intricate mosaics ever found in Israel.
At its center is the biblical verse, “Blessed shalt thou be when thou comest in, and blessed shalt thou be when thou goest out” (Deuteronomy 28:6), written in Greek, the Byzantine Empire’s administrative and liturgical language.
Intricate mosaic with small tesserae
Crosses, lions, doves, flowers, and geometric patterns adorn the colorful mosaic floor. It also depicts an amphora – a ceramic jug used for maritime shipping of wine and oil – reflecting the settlement’s connection to trade. Archaeologists note that some sections of the mosaic were crafted with exceptionally small tesserae.
The monastery dates to the 5th or 6th century CE and is believed to have been built over an earlier Roman-period settlement. It remained in use for approximately 600 years, according to the Israel Antiquities Authority.
Daily life in antiquity
The excavation, conducted ahead of the construction of a new neighborhood, revealed the remains of at least 10 structures. These include the monastery, a winepress, a large warehouse, and evidence of an extensive pottery workshop.
The pottery workshop produced “Gaza jars,” amphorae that were widely used in the Mediterranean for exporting liquids like wine and olive oil. A storage room containing neatly stacked jars was also uncovered.
Additionally, archaeologists found glass juglets, possibly used for storing precious liquids, and a pottery jar with a human face, a rare and striking artifact.
The winepress, a centerpiece of the settlement, showed signs of repeated repairs, reflecting its importance to the local economy.
The fermentation rooms and collecting vats featured blue-and-white mosaic floors, suggesting a luxurious touch. Greek inscriptions on the winepress floor were identified as masonry marks used during the construction process.
Cultural and religious hub
Archaeologists believe the monastery served as both a religious and communal center. Unlike a church, which is primarily a worship space, a monastery also includes living quarters and areas for daily activities.
Researchers identified a large room near the worship hall, thought to be the refectory, where inhabitants would gather for meals.
“The discovery of the site highlights the historical richness of Kiryat Gat and its surroundings, shedding light on the centrality of the region in antiquity,” said Svetlana Talis, Southern Region director at the Israel Antiquities Authority.
The excavation is ongoing, and archaeologists anticipate more significant findings as they continue working.
Preserving the past
The mosaic will be relocated to an open area in Kiryat Gat, where it will be displayed for public viewing. “The mosaic floor will be relocated to an open area in the city [Kiryat Gat] and made accessible to the public,” Talis said.
With its intricate mosaic, rare artifacts, and evidence of daily life, the monastery offers a glimpse into southern Israel’s history and the ancient Mediterranean world’s interconnectedness.