Archaeologists working at Tel Shimron in northern Israel have uncovered an enormous ancient structure filled with Canaanite cultic artifacts. This remarkable collection includes objects likely used in religious ceremonies around 3,800 years ago. Among them is a rare Minoan jug from the Greek island of Crete—one of only three examples ever found in Israel—suggesting long-distance connections between the Canaanites and distant cultures.
Among the discoveries were burned animal bones, valuable pottery from distant lands, and two small bull statues, which may have represented gods the Canaanites worshiped. These items were carefully arranged, suggesting a sacred purpose.
This massive structure, perched at the top of Tel Shimron in Israel’s Jezreel Valley, is only partly excavated, but its size and unique features are already drawing attention.
A monumental structure with a unique design
The monument, about 5 to 6 meters high, was clearly built to stand out. Unlike the rest of the site, which is covered in dark stones, the structure’s peak was topped with white chalk, creating a striking contrast that could be seen from miles away.
Professor Daniel Master from Wheaton College, who co-leads the excavation with Dr. Mario Martin from Tel Aviv University, describes it as a “monument.” Its exact purpose remains a mystery, but Master believes it was intentionally designed to be a powerful symbol.
One of the most fascinating areas inside the monument is a room that the builders turned into a “favissa,” or storage space for old religious items. Covering 68 square meters, the favissa was filled with rare Middle Bronze Age artifacts, making it one of the richest collections found in the Levant.
The room originally had thick mudbrick walls and two staircases. However, shortly after construction, the entrances were blocked, leaving the space open to the sky.
Ancient Canaanite Religious Artifacts Unearthed in Northern Israel
Archaeologists at Tel Shimron in northern Israel have uncovered a monumental Canaanite structure, revealing a trove of 3,800-year-old cultic artifacts. Among the finds are rare, imported ceramics, burnt animal… pic.twitter.com/P0ApLWoTXQ
— History Content (@HistContent) November 6, 2024
Minoan pottery discovered in Israel
Researchers believe locals later used this space to deposit remains from religious ceremonies held nearby. The favissa contained around 40,000 animal bones, mostly from sheep, cattle, and goats, burned at high temperatures—likely indicating ritual rather than everyday cooking.
Over 57,000 pottery pieces were also found, including rare miniature jugs and bowls and a beautifully decorated jug from the Greek island of Crete, one of only three examples of Minoan pottery ever found in Israel.
Possible religious and political significance
While some might joke that archaeologists often label unknown artifacts as “cultic,” there are strong clues suggesting this collection’s religious purpose. The types of pottery found are similar to those seen in temple sites rather than homes.
Additionally, two bronze bull figurines found in the favissa possibly represent powerful Canaanite gods, such as El, the head god, or Baal, the storm god.
Archaeologists believe these items were present in the favissa during a single, large ceremony or a few closely timed events. Many pottery pieces could not be fully restored, suggesting that only fragments were deliberately chosen for this sacred pit.
A site with a long, unbroken history
Tel Shimron itself is a “tel,” or mound, built up over centuries as communities settled, built, and rebuilt on the same spot. This site was occupied from the Bronze Age up to modern times. Historical records and findings show that it was once an important Canaanite city with trade connections.
Later, Tel Shimron is mentioned in the Bible as a site of Israelite conquest. It was occupied by various groups, including Hellenistic settlers, Romans, Islamic rulers, Crusaders, and Ottomans.
Interestingly, despite its importance, no later civilization ever built on top of the mound where the ancient monument stood. Why this prime spot was left untouched remains unclear. Perhaps later residents felt a sense of respect for the ancient structure, or maybe practical reasons kept them from building there.