Mosaic Masterpiece From Byzantine Era Unveiled in Southern Israel
A dazzling 1,600-year-old mosaic that lay hidden for decades in southern Israel has finally been revealed to the public, bringing a burst of ancient color and craftsmanship to the edge of the Negev desert. Discovered in 1990 near Kibbutz Urim, just a few miles from the Gaza Strip, the Be’er Shema mosaic was recently restored and relocated to the Merhavim Regional Council compound, where it now serves as a permanent exhibition.
The mosaic, once part of a Byzantine-era monastery, is made up of 55 beautifully detailed medallions featuring scenes of hunting, mythological creatures, fruit baskets, and everyday life. Experts believe the monastery thrived on wine production, and nearby excavations turned up a large winepress and storage jars, suggesting the site also offered refuge to travelers along the ancient Nabataean-Roman spice route linking Halutza and Gaza.
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“This is a unique mosaic from the Byzantine period,” said archaeologist Shaike Lender, who helped lead the original excavation. “It was clearly made by the hand of a true artist.”
For years, the mosaic was buried for protection. But as time and agriculture took their toll, conservation teams stepped in to rescue and preserve it. Now safely displayed indoors, it has been outfitted with explanatory signage, benches, and a paved access path.
“This beautiful mosaic … will be preserved here and become a focal point for visits and learning,” said Merhavim Council Head Shay Hajaj. Heritage Minister Amichai Eliyahu and Israel Antiquities Authority Director Eli Escusido praised the project as a way to connect people with history—right in their backyard.
Escusido added, “Especially in these days, it is of great importance to reveal historical gems in the Gaza Envelope region.”
