Archaeologists have made a groundbreaking discovery in the ancient city of Hippos, located near the Sea of Galilee in Israel. The unearthing of a trove of Byzantine-era gold coins and pearl-inlaid jewelry has brought new light to the region’s rich history and cultural heritage. The cache includes 97 pure gold coins, alongside fragments of gold earrings inlaid with pearls, semi-precious stones, and glass. These artifacts date back over 1,500 years, showcasing the advanced craftsmanship and artistic techniques of the era.
The find was made by Edie Lipsman, a metal detectorist who was part of the excavation team. As he was working in the area, a stone shifted between two walls, which triggered a stronger signal from his metal detector, leading to the discovery of the hoard. Lipsman described the moment as exhilarating, with the detector’s signal ‘going crazy’ as the coins were revealed. The remarkable preservation of these items indicates they were likely stored in a cloth pouch, reflecting the care with which they were kept.
The hoard, comprising coins from different reigns, including Emperor Justin I in the 520s AD to the early reign of Emperor Heraclius around 610 AD, highlights the historical significance of the site. Notably, a particularly rare tremissis coin, minted in Cyprus at the end of 610 AD by Emperor Heraclius the Elder and his son during their revolt against Emperor Phocas, was discovered. This is only the second such coin ever found in Israel, adding to the importance of the find.
Michael Eisenberg, the leader of the excavation team, emphasized the uniqueness of the hoard, noting that it is one of the largest Byzantine-era caches found on dry land in Israel. The combination of jewelry and coins from different periods makes this discovery particularly significant. Additionally, the presence of remnants of fabric on some of the coins provides valuable insights into how the hoard was originally stored.
The discovery has not only captured the attention of historians and archaeologists but also the public, with its implications extending beyond the realm of archaeology. The well-preserved condition of the items, which appear almost new, is a testament to the durability of gold and the meticulous care of their original owners. Such findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the Byzantine era, the cultural practices of the time, and the role of the Christian city of Hippos in the historical context of the region.
Interestingly, the latest discovery is not the only significant find at Hippos in recent months. In August, archaeologists announced the discovery of the world’s oldest known nursing home, a 1,600-year-old Christian care facility for the elderly. The mosaic found around 320 feet from the city’s central plaza, inside one of its residential blocks, bears the message ‘Peace be with the elders’ in Koine Greek. These findings together create a comprehensive picture of the city’s historical and cultural significance, illustrating the diverse aspects of life in this ancient Christian community.