Archaeologists have uncovered ancient Canaanite ritual artifacts and a 5,000-year-old winepress at Tel Megiddo, the site known as Armageddon in the Book of Revelation. The findings, made near the site during construction of Highway 66 in the Jezreel Valley, date back to the Early Bronze Age, providing new evidence of early wine production and a Canaanite folk cult.
The Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) announced the discovery on November 5, revealing the presence of a rock-carved winepress, described as the oldest ever found in Israel. This artifact offers conclusive evidence that wine production began in the region around 5,000 years ago, a claim previously supported by indirect evidence.
Alongside the winepress, archaeologists discovered remnants of a Canaanite folk cult, including a ceramic model of a shrine and animal-shaped ritual vessels. These items were placed in the ground in an orderly manner as ritual offerings, likely used in ceremonies involving liquids such as wine, oil, or milk. The burial locations suggest that the cult operated outside the city, possibly comprising local farmers who could not access the main temple.
Historians believe these findings provide insights into the daily life and beliefs of the region’s residents over thousands of years. Eli Escusido, director of the IAA, emphasized that the excavation reveals the history embedded in the soil, offering a glimpse into the early urbanization and cultural practices of the area.
Earlier this year, additional discoveries at Tel Megiddo included evidence of a biblical battle, suggesting the presence of an Egyptian army following the collapse of the Assyrian Empire. These findings continue to enrich the historical narrative of the region, highlighting its significance in ancient times.