In the north of the Gaza Strip, Palestinian archaeologists have discovered a second sarcophagus made of lead. The discovery was unearthed in an ancient cemetery dating back to the Roman era.
This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities of Gaza.
Director General of the General Department of Antiquities in Gaza Jamal Abu Raida said that the sarcophagus probably belongs to a person who held a high position in the Roman era two thousand years ago. The sarcophagus will be transferred to the Ministry’s headquarters for research with the support of international experts and archaeologists.
According to Reuters, in addition to the two lead sarcophagi, at least 125 tombs were also discovered at the cemetery, most with well-preserved skeletons. It is noted that the territory of the Gaza Strip has been an important trading post since the ancient Egyptians. The Crusades also passed through this territory.
Previously, local archaeologists did not have funding for excavations. However, in 2022, French organizations helped to excavate an ancient cemetery.
“This is the first time in Palestine that we have discovered a cemetery containing 125 tombs, and it is the first time in Gaza that we have discovered two lead sarcophagi,” said Fadel Al-Autoul, an expert at the French School of Biblical and Archaeological Studies.
One of the two sarcophagi was decorated with images of grapes, and the other with dolphins.