Archaeologists have uncovered significant findings at Tel Megiddo, the biblical site known as Armageddon, according to the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA). The latest discoveries include ancient Canaanite ritual artifacts and a 5,000-year-old winepress, unearthed during the construction of Highway 66 in the Jezreel Valley. These findings span multiple historical periods, from the Early Bronze Age, around 3000 B.C., to the Late Bronze Age, approximately 1270 B.C.
The most remarkable artifact is the rock-carved winepress, described as the oldest ever found in Israel. This discovery provides conclusive evidence of early wine production in the region, filling a gap in historical understanding. Prior indirect evidence had suggested the possibility, but now, the winepress confirms the existence of such practices. The IAA emphasized that this finding is significant, as it ties the ancient wine-making industry to an early urban settlement, offering new insights into the economic and cultural life of the area.
Along with the winepress, archaeologists uncovered remnants of a Canaanite folk cult dating back 3,300 years. These include a ceramic model of a shrine and animal-shaped ritual vessels, which were found in an orderly burial pattern, indicating their use in ritual offerings. The vessels, including imported jugs from Cyprus and ceremonial sets for libations, were likely used in religious ceremonies, possibly by local farmers who could not access the main temple.
The IAA noted that these offerings suggest the existence of a folk cult that operated outside the city, allowing local farmers to engage in religious practices independently of the larger temple complex. This discovery adds to the understanding of the social and religious structure of the Canaanite community, revealing a continuity of rituals and the importance of agricultural produce in their spiritual practices.
These findings are part of a broader pattern of discoveries at Tel Megiddo, which has long been a site of significant archaeological interest. Earlier this year, archaeologists announced the discovery of evidence related to a biblical battle, suggesting the presence of an Egyptian army, particularly the soldiers that defeated King Josiah, further enriching the narrative of the site’s historical significance.
The IAA director, Eli Escusido, described the latest findings as a ‘layer by layer’ revelation of the site’s rich history. The exposure of ancient wine-making facilities and evidence of folk worship outside Megiddo allows researchers to better understand the daily lives and beliefs of the region’s inhabitants over thousands of years.
These discoveries not only highlight the cultural and religious practices of the ancient Canaanites but also underscore the importance of Tel Megiddo as a key archaeological site in the ancient Near East. The ongoing excavations continue to provide valuable insights into the evolution of societies and their practices, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the region’s past.