On May 23, the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) announced the discovery of a burial cave containing coffins dating back 1,850 years in the Galilee region of northern Israel.
Israel discovers ancient coffins in a cave. (Source: IAA).
The burial cave and the ancient coffins, commonly referred to as glosskamas (decorated coffins), were discovered by the IAA and the Israel Police at a private property in the town of Mashhad, where significant infrastructure work is currently underway.
The construction activities at these sites have resulted in the destruction of 8 out of the 9 burial niches within this ancient rock cave.
Among the coffins found, three rectangular ones made of soft limestone with decorative motifs and flat lids were located at the entrance of the cave.
These coffins were used by the Jewish community in Galilee. The coffins feature carvings of symbols reflecting Jewish burial rituals influenced by Greek culture.
One coffin exhibits a tomb-like symbol on its top, while the side is carved with a circular wreath symbolizing the deceased’s victory over death.
According to the IAA, such coffins were primarily used in the Jerusalem area and became popular in Galilee following the defeat in the Third Jewish Revolt against the Roman Empire in 136 CE.
