Archaeologists in Israel have uncovered a mosaic with the ancient Greek phrase, “Blessed are you when you come in and blessed are you when you go out,” in Kiryat Gat, in the southern part of the country.
According to an article of Eleni Sampani in ekathimerini.com, the inscription, dating to the 5th or 6th century CE, was found in the remains of a Byzantine monastery. Mark Avrahami, head of the conservation team, described the mosaic as one of the rarest ever discovered in Israel. It will soon be preserved and displayed to the public.
The mosaic floor includes the Biblical phrase alongside intricate depictions of lions, doves, geometric patterns, flowers, crosses, and a ceramic vessel.
The discovery was made during construction for a new neighborhood. Archaeologists believe the monastery was built on an earlier Roman settlement. Excavations revealed at least ten additional structures, including a winepress, storage facilities, and a large ceramics workshop.
Artifacts unearthed at the site include Gaza amphorae—used to transport wine or olive oil across the Mediterranean—small glass vessels, and a rare ceramic amphora with a human face. Experts highlight the strategic location of the Roman settlement, emphasizing its historical significance in the region.
Source: ekathimerini.com
