Archaeologists have made a remarkable discovery at Tel Megiddo, a site historically referred to as Armageddon in the Book of Revelation, where they uncovered ancient Canaanite ritual artifacts and a 5,000-year-old winepress. These findings, revealed by the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) on November 5, were made during the construction of Highway 66 in the Jezreel Valley. The artifacts, dating back to the Early Bronze Age around 3000 B.C. and the Late Bronze Age around 1270 B.C., span a significant period of human history in the region.
The most notable find is the rock-carved winepress, which is described as the oldest ever discovered in Israel. The IAA officials emphasized the significance of this discovery, noting that it provides concrete evidence of ancient wine production. Until recently, there was only indirect evidence of such activity 5,000 years ago, but this winepress confirms the existence of a local wine industry in an early urban settlement context. This finding not only highlights the technological advancements of the time but also contributes to our understanding of the economic activities of ancient societies.
In addition to the winepress, archaeologists also uncovered remnants of a Canaanite folk cult, including a ceramic model of a shrine and animal-shaped ritual vessels. These artifacts were carefully placed in the ground as ritual offerings, suggesting a religious tradition practiced by local farmers who could not access the main temple. The burial sites indicate that these offerings were made near a large rock outcrop, likely serving as an open-air altar outside the Canaanite city of Megiddo. This indicates a long-standing religious practice that continued over thousands of years, reflecting the intertwining of daily life and faith among the ancient inhabitants of the region.
These recent findings add to a growing body of archaeological evidence from the site. Earlier this year, researchers announced the discovery of evidence suggesting a biblical battle had occurred at Tel Megiddo, indicating the presence of an Egyptian army, particularly those that defeated King Josiah. The presence of Egyptian artifacts, such as cooking pots and storage jars, supports the theory that these soldiers settled at Megiddo following the collapse of the Assyrian Empire in the late 7th century. This additional context enriches our understanding of the dynamic historical and cultural exchanges that shaped the region.
Dr. Eli Escusido, director of the IAA, expressed the importance of these findings, stating that they reveal the vast history embedded in the soil of Tel Megiddo. The exposure of ancient wine-making facilities and evidence of folk worship outside the city provides insight into the daily life and beliefs of the region’s residents over thousands of years. Such discoveries not only highlight the archaeological significance of the site but also underscore the enduring legacy of ancient Canaanite culture and its influence on the historical narrative of the region.