When the Hamiel family set out for a spring hike in the Harovit forest in central Israel last week, they never imagined they would stumble across ancient artwork.
Follow Israel Hayom on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram
When the family members caught a glimpse of a mosaic through the dirt at the side of a pike trail, they contact the Israel Antiquities Authority, which sent experts to excavate it.
The multi-colored mosaic features geometric motifs. According to IAA archaeologist Ilan Peretz, it dates from the Byzantine Era.
Once it was fully excavated, the IAA removed the mosaic for conservation by Ariel Inbar. Once the work is complete, the IAA plans to open the site for visitors.
The Hamiel family received certificates of merit for their part in helping preserve the discovery.
The Harovit forest is located in central Israel, not far from Kibbutz Kfar Menachem and the moshavs Gefen and Tirosh. The forest boasts parking, marked trails, and bicycle paths set up by the JNF-KKL.
Subscribe to Israel Hayom's daily newsletter and never miss our top stories!
