Archaeologists Uncover Ancient Samaritan Estate in Israel

Archaeologists have made a significant discovery in Kafr Qasim, Israel, unearthing a large Samaritan estate that dates back approximately 1,600 years. The excavation revealed a variety of historical treasures, including intricate mosaics, baths, and an ancient olive oil press. This archaeological site is situated about 20 kilometers east of Tel Aviv, on the Israeli side of the border with the West Bank, and was uncovered as part of preparations for a new housing development.

The dig, funded by the Israeli Ministry of Construction and Housing, is located within the Kafr Hatta archaeological site. This area is historically noted as the birthplace of Menander, a Samaritan magician linked to the early Gnostic sects and recognized as one of the first converts to Christianity. Excavation efforts are being conducted in collaboration with the Israel Antiquities Authority, which is also involved in conservation efforts alongside neighborhood development.

“The size and splendor of the buildings discovered, the quality of their mosaic floors, and the impressive agricultural installations all point to the great wealth and prosperity of the local Samaritan community over the years,” said excavation directors Alla Nagorsky and Dr. Daniel Leahy Griswold.

Among the notable findings is a preserved mosaic floor adorned with a dense geometric pattern and depictions of various plants. The central medallion features acanthus leaves alongside rare illustrations of fruits and vegetables, including grapes, dates, watermelons, artichokes, and asparagus. A partially preserved Greek inscription at the entrance of one room wishes the building’s owner “Good Luck!” The name Rabia, found in the inscription, was common in Samaritan communities.

Further exploration of the estate revealed an olive press, a large warehouse, and a public purification bath known as a miqveh. The proximity of the olive press to the miqveh suggests that olive oil was produced in a state of ritual purity. The olive press itself was a substantial structure with two wings; the northern wing contained the main production area, while the southern wing housed auxiliary rooms. Archaeologists discovered two screw presses and a large olive crushing basin within these production areas.

“This type of olive press is more typical of the Jerusalem region and the Judean Shephelah, and is less common in Samaria,” Nagorsky noted. The estate underwent dramatic changes over the centuries. Its earlier wealth and luxury transitioned to oil production and agricultural installations, with new walls damaging mosaic floors and incorporating magnificent capitals and columns into their structures.

Nagorsky suggested these alterations were likely related to the Samaritan Revolts during the Byzantine period, a series of uprisings in the fifth and sixth centuries against Byzantine emperors who imposed restrictive laws on religious minorities. “What makes this site particularly interesting is that unlike some other Samaritan sites that were destroyed during these revolts, the agricultural estate in Kafr Qasim actually continued in use, preserving its Samaritan identity, as evidenced by the Samaritan ceramic oil lamps found in our excavation,” she explained.

“This is a fascinating site, which displays the historical range between the days of prosperity and the decline of the Samaritan community,” Nagorsky added. The long-term existence and impressive findings at this site will aid in reconstructing its history over centuries, enriching knowledge about this ancient population.

Rabbi Amichai Eliyahu, the Israeli Minister of Heritage, commented on the historical ties between ancient Jews and Samaritans. “These two ancient communities led their lives based on the Torah and shared common roots, and also experienced similar hardships during periods of antagonistic rule,” he stated. “The impressive findings indicate the prosperity of a community closely related to Judaism, who lived in the Land of Israel for many centuries. These physical remains are another reminder that our heritage in this land is deep and multi-faceted.”

As the excavation continues, the discoveries will undoubtedly deepen understanding of the Samaritan community and its historical significance in the region.