The discovery allows for the reconstruction of the first complete Roman cemetery in Palestinian territory. It dates from the period between the 1st century before and the 2nd century after Christ.
Palestinian archaeologists have discovered four 2,000-year-old Roman tombs in the Gaza Strip. As archaeologist Fadel al-Otol announced over the weekend, the discovery makes it possible to reconstruct the first complete Roman cemetery in Palestinian territory. With the discovery of these four tombs, the total number of graves in this Roman cemetery, which dates from the period between the 1st century BC and the 2nd century AD, now stands at 134.
It is “the first complete Roman necropolis” excavated in the Gaza Strip, said al-Otol. According to him, fragments of ceramics and metal pieces that are used in funeral rituals were also found. Using simple tools, archaeologists also discovered two coffins, one decorated with grapes and the other with dolphins.
The excavation and restoration work is financed by the British cultural institute British Council. According to archaeologists, however, the resources are not enough. The Gaza Strip borders Israel, Egypt and the Mediterranean. The narrow coastal strip has been subject to an Israeli blockade since the radical Palestinian Islamic organization Hamas came to power more than 15 years ago. (APA/AFP)