One of the most significant discoveries: archaeologists in Israel have unearthed a Byzantine-era monastery (photo).

In the Southern District of Israel, archaeologists have uncovered a 1500-year-old monastery near Kiryat Gat. The structure, dating back to the Byzantine period, was discovered during construction work in the northern area of Karmey Gat, writes Heritage Daily.

The monastery, which dates to the 5th or 6th century AD, boasts an extensive complex featuring intricate mosaics. One of the mosaics includes a Greek inscription from Deuteronomy: "Blessed shall you be when you come in, and blessed shall you be when you go out!".

Alongside the inscription, the mosaic displays detailed patterns and symbols, including crosses, lions, doves, amphorae, and flowers, showcasing the craftsmanship involved in working with tiny mosaic tiles.

The Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) highlighted the strategic location of this site, situated along a historic road that connected the mountains to the coastal plain.

This route likely served both travelers and local communities, making the monastery a hub of activity. According to a statement from the IAA, the discovery is one of the most significant sites from the Roman and Byzantine periods in the region, reflecting continuous habitation from the 1st to the 6th century AD.

The excavations also revealed the remains of at least ten monastic structures, including gates, a storeroom, a pottery workshop, and a complex wine press. These findings provide insight into the daily life and industries that thrived within the monastic community.

We also reported on an unexpected discovery by Turkish archaeologists. In western Turkey, researchers found an ancient bath that locals had used as stables for years.