A Masterpiece from the Past
A vibrant Byzantine mosaic, considered one of the most beautiful ever discovered in Israel, was unveiled to the public for the first time on Sunday in a special ceremony at the Merhavim Regional Council in the northwestern Negev. The mosaic, known as “Be’er Shema”, was first unearthed some 35 years ago south of Kibbutz Urim and has since undergone meticulous preservation by the Israel Antiquities Authority.
The mosaic dates back to the Byzantine period (324–638 CE) and includes 55 intricate medallions decorated with mythological figures, exotic animals, hunting scenes, and daily life imagery from that era.
“This was the work of a master artist,” said archaeologist Shaike Lender, who led the excavation. “It combines not only tiny mosaic stones but also glass and pottery shards to add rare texture and artistic depth.”
A Window into a Thriving Byzantine Settlement
The mosaic once served as the floor of a large Byzantine monastery that flourished thanks to a local wine industry. Excavations also revealed wine presses, amphorae, and storage rooms, indicating a well-developed economy that served travelers on ancient trade routes, including the famed Incense Route connecting Halutza and Gaza.
From Buried Treasure to Open-Air Gallery
Although the mosaic was uncovered in 1990, it was reburied shortly after for its protection. However, decades of wear and exposure began to take their toll. Last year, as part of the “Antiquities Near Home” project by the Ministry of Heritage and the Israel Antiquities Authority, full-scale restoration began.
The mosaic was relocated to the Merhavim Regional Council complex, where it is now the centerpiece of a newly constructed open-air archaeological park that includes accessible pathways, seating areas, and informative signage.
Ami Shahar, Director of Conservation at the Antiquities Authority, said: “After painstaking efforts by our experts, the public can now finally enjoy the beauty and complexity of this 1,600-year-old masterpiece.”
Heritage and Vision in the Negev
Shai Hajaj, head of the Merhavim Regional Council, called the mosaic a “living testament to Jewish settlement in the Negev 1,500 years ago.” He added that the mosaic will become a hub for education, tourism, and cultural inspiration, symbolizing the link between past, present, and future.
Eli Eskosido, Director of the Israel Antiquities Authority, also spoke at the unveiling: “Especially in challenging times like these, highlighting historical treasures can help reconnect people to their roots—and support the region’s renewal.”
