New discovery proves Greek presence in Jerusalem’s history

·

A new discovery in the City of David has provided tangible evidence of the Greek presence in Jerusalem’s history.

According to foxnews.com, 16 pieces of ceramic roof tiles were recently discovered during excavations by the Israel Antiquities Authority and Tel Aviv University and they date back to the time of Greek Seleucid King Antiochus IV Epiphanes.

The findings, published in the Journal of Hellenistic Pottery, align with the historical account of Antiochus IV spreading Greek culture, enforcing Hellenistic views, and desecrating the sacred temple, leading to the Maccabean revolt.

“These roof tiles, or at least modern roof tiles, were invented in the seventh century B.C., in the middle of Greece itself, and then spread around the world, but never to the Middle East,” Dr Filip Vukosavović told Fox News.

The inception of ceramic roofing tiles took place in Greece. In Israel, however, these tiles were not used until many centuries later.

Photo: Emil Aladjem, Israel Antiquities Authority

Researchers utilised stratigraphy to identify the roof tiles from the relevant time period. Additionally, a petrography analysis was conducted, confirming the local origin of the clay from the Motza area west of Jerusalem, supplemented with locally sourced sand and straw.

The discovery provides material proof of a story often told. 

According to Dr Vukosavović, the first book of Maccabees describes the arrival of the Greeks, Antiochus IV and the struggle. There were also tradition talks much later about the defilement of the temple and the miracle of the oil and eight days. However, there was never real material proof for the presence of the Greeks themselves.  

Source: Fox news

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

‘I will never forget you’: Emotional farewell for Greek Consul General in Sydney

An emotional Greek Consul General Yannis Mallikourtis delivered his farewell speech on Monday evening at Business Sydney’s Event Centre.

Adelaide’s St Sophrony Parish raises funds for hall construction

The newly established St Sophrony of Essex parish in Hectorville, Adelaide, held its first official fundraising dinner on Sunday, June 29.

From homelessness to homeowner: Kostas Papadimitropoulos shares his inspirational story

Melbourne man Kostas Papadimitropoulos has turned his life around after being scammed out of his life savings and forced to live in his car.

Sydney Dance Company shines at Athens Epidaurus Festival with ‘Impermanence’

The Sydney Dance Company captivated a crowd of 5,000 at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus last week, performing 'Impermanence.'

Former ATO worker Paraskevi Vula Danassis convicted in $2 billion GST scam

Former Australian Taxation Office employee Paraskevi Vula Danassis has been convicted over her role in a $2 billion GST fraud scheme.

You May Also Like

Three Greek dishes voted as most difficult to pronounce

In a new study conducted by financial provider Remitly, three Greek dishes have been named as some of the most difficult to pronounce.

Maria Charalambous saves husband from Sydney house fire

Maria Charalambous is being hailed a hero after saving her husband, from a devastating house fire that destroyed their Bonnyrigg Heights home.

Study Modern Greek at UNSW thanks to the 1821 Scholarship Program

Students with a passion for Greek language are being encouraged to apply for the newly launched 1821 Scholarship at the UNSW.