Shikhin

The excavation area contains multiple pottery workshops, ancient residential structures, and remnants of a Roman-period synagogue with painted plaster walls.

The village flourished from the Hasmonean period through the 4th century CE, becoming a major pottery production center mentioned by historian Josephus as Asochis.

Archaeologists discovered molds decorated with Jewish symbols, including a menorah with palm branches, indicating the presence of Jewish artisans in the pottery industry.

The Shikhin Excavation Project accepts volunteers without prior experience to participate in archaeological digs using American excavation methods.

Excavations revealed the largest collection of oil lamp molds found in Israel, with evidence of apprentice craftsmen using local black clay for production.

GPS coordinates: 32.76890,35.27330

Latest update: March 6, 2025 14:33