11th century gold treasure found in Israel

11th century gold treasure found in Israel
11th century gold treasure found in Israel
Anonim

In Israel, archaeologists have shown for the first time gold artifacts that are 1,000 years old or more, which were discovered during excavations in Ramla.

According to the Israel Antiquities Authority, excavations in Ramla started back in 2006. They were conducted by a team led by Alexander Onn. Archaeologists have unearthed the remains of many houses and shops that date back to the early Islamic period.

The most interesting finds were made precisely during the study of the ruins of ancient trade shops. A real treasure was found in one of them - archaeologists stumbled upon a small ceramic jug filled with gold dinars.

In Israel, archaeologists for the first time showed gold artifacts 1000 years old or more, which were discovered during excavations in Ramla.

According to the Israel Antiquities Authority, excavations in Ramla started back in 2006. They were conducted by a team led by Alexander Onn. Archaeologists have unearthed the remains of many houses and shops that date back to the early Islamic period.

The most interesting finds were made precisely during the study of the ruins of ancient trade shops. A real treasure was found in one of them - archaeologists stumbled upon a small ceramic jug filled with gold dinars.

As established by experts, these coins were minted over several centuries, from the VIII-XI to the century AD. Accordingly, the treasure itself was dated to the later of these coins, that is, it is believed that it was hidden in the 11th century.

Another small treasure was discovered by researchers in a nearby shop. It consisted of jewelry including three gold and six silver bracelets. It has already been determined that these decorations also belong to the period of the Fatimid dynasty; they are dated back to the same XI century.

Experts note that this treasure "reflects the richness and splendor of silver and gold jewelry from that period." The found bracelets differ not only in shape, but also in manufacturing technique. The most magnificent of these is the gold bracelet, adorned with bright floral designs at both ends.

In the center of this piece is engraved a two-word Arabic inscription, which in translation means: "I wish you complete blessings." Another interesting item is a silver bracelet with a small box for storing the amulet. This box is decorated with floral stripes and lines from the Koran.

The largest artifacts are two silver bracelets, each weighing about 170 grams. Archaeologists say that similar silver bracelets were found earlier during excavations in the vicinity of the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. As for gold bracelets, such items of that time period were found for the first time during archaeological excavations.

In addition, in the shops, the researchers found numerous bronze weights and scales, which were probably actively used by merchants when making transactions with customers.

Recommended: