Archaeologists working in northern Israel have made a discovery that could reshape our understanding of the Roman Empire’s influence and its connection to biblical history. At the ancient site of Abel Beth Maacah in Upper Galilee, researchers uncovered a 1,700-year-old stone engraving carved from volcanic rock. The artifact, written in Ancient Greek, references Caesar Marcus Aurelius Alexander and names four Roman officials who oversaw territories in the region. Experts believe the stone was a boundary marker dividing two towns previously unknown to historians—Tirathas and Golgol. Some scholars suggest these towns may be linked to the biblical Gilgal and Golgotha, places that hold deep religious significance.
Gilgal is described in the Book of Joshua as an encampment of the Israelites, while Golgotha is famously recognized as the site where Jesus was crucified. If the connection is correct, this discovery could bridge biblical accounts with archaeological evidence in a remarkable way. Adding to the intrigue, historians point to a 19th-century Lebanese site called Turritha, which may actually be the lost town of Tirathas.
Professor Uzi, a leading scholar at Hebrew University, explained the importance of the find in an interview with The Mirror: “Finding a boundary stone like this sheds light on ancient land ownership and taxation, offering a real glimpse into lives nearly two millennia ago.” His comments highlight that this discovery isn’t just about geography—it also provides insight into the political and economic realities of life under Roman rule.
But this wasn’t the only extraordinary discovery in Galilee. In a separate excavation, archaeologists uncovered a 1,500-year-old amulet known as “Solomon’s Seal.” This protective charm was believed to shield women and children from evil spirits. Crafted with inscriptions and symbols, the amulet reflects how ancient communities sought spiritual protection in their daily lives. Its survival across centuries offers a rare look at the intersection of faith, superstition, and family life in the early Byzantine period.
Meanwhile, in Jerusalem’s City of David, another groundbreaking discovery has surfaced near the Temple Mount. Researchers uncovered a religious shrine dating back roughly 3,000 years, making it one of the most significant finds in the area in decades. Carved into the rock, the shrine had remained untouched for millennia. It features eight distinct rooms, a standing stone, and an altar—suggesting it was used for sacred rituals. Archaeologists believe the shrine may have been deliberately sealed by the ancestors of Jesus, preserving it through generations.
The City of David excavation underscores the depth of Jerusalem’s history, connecting present-day Israel to a time when religious practices shaped not just spiritual life but also community structure. The discovery of an unspoiled shrine from that era offers an unprecedented window into how ancient people worshiped and maintained traditions of faith.
Together, these findings highlight just how rich and complex the region’s past truly is. From boundary stones that reveal the practical realities of Roman taxation, to protective amulets that speak to everyday fears and hopes, to sacred shrines hidden away for thousands of years, each artifact adds another layer to the story of the land where biblical history unfolded.
These discoveries remind us that archaeology is not only about unearthing relics but also about reconnecting with human stories—how people lived, what they valued, and how their worldviews shaped history. For believers, they offer tangible links to the places and events described in scripture. For historians, they deepen our understanding of the political and cultural forces that influenced life in the region during and before the time of Jesus.
As excavations continue across Galilee and Jerusalem, scholars hope these artifacts will open the door to more connections between the biblical narrative and the historical record. Each find not only preserves the memory of the past but also brings us closer to understanding the lives of those who walked the land nearly two millennia ago.
