Archaeology

Human hand outline may be oldest rock art in the world, researchers say

The 67,800-year-old reddish-colored stenciled image has become faded over time and is barely visible on a cave wall, but nonetheless embodies an early achievement of human creativity.

THE FAINT image of a hand stencil, a negative outline of a human hand created by placing a hand against a rock wall surface and spraying pigment paint around it, that has been dated to 67,800 years ago, in a limestone cave called Liang Metanduno on Muna.
The mandible of an archaic human who lived about 773 000 years ago is pictured after being excavated at a cave called Grotte a Hominides at a site known as Thomas Quarry I in the southwest part of the Moroccan city of Casablanca in this undated photograph released on January 7, 2026.

Fossils found in Moroccan cave may be a close Homo sapiens ancestor

US ambassador Mike Huckabee's family after finding coins in a Mateh Binyamin Regional Council cave, January 5, 2026.

'Grandpa, look what we found': Huckabee family uncovers ancient coins in West Bank caves

Archaeologists have uncovered a complex of ancient industrial workshops and part of a Roman-era necropolis in Egypt’s western Nile Delta.

Roman-era necropolis, ancient workshops unearthed in Egypt’s western Nile Delta


Israeli archaeologists unearth lavish 1,600-year-old Samaritan estate

The excavation revealed a magnificent mosaic floor decorated with a geometric pattern and images of fruits and vegetables, such as grapes, dates, and watermelons.

An olive press for production of oil in ritually pure conditions and an adjacent ritual bath (miqveh)

Ancient innovation uncovered: Some of the oldest lamp wicks in history found in Israel

The wicks, preserved in unusual circumstances, are a remarkable discovery given the moist Mediterranean climate, which typically causes organic materials to decompose.

A 4,000-year-old wick was discovered in its entirety in an  Israel Antiquities Authority excavation near Yehud.

The Lod Mosaic: A rare peace of ancient Rome on display in Israel

The main figures in this impressive piece of art shows the beauty in the natural world with depictions of birds, mammal, fish, plants, and flowers.

Lod mosaic.

Silver used as form of currency in Land of Israel 3,600 years ago - study

For years, researchers had discovered dozens of silver hoards in Israel from the Bronze and Iron Ages, but they were often thought to be raw metal, jeweler's scraps, or foundation deposits.

A silver hoard from Maras ad-Din, circa 600 BC.

Rare gold coin depicting Egyptian queen unearthed in Jerusalem

Discovered in the Givati parking lot of Jerusalem, the coin was minted for Queen Berenice II, wife of the Hellenistic ruler Ptolemy III of Egypt.

The rare coin with the portrait of Queen Berenice II.

Earliest proof of Neanderthals, Homo sapiens interbreeding discovered by Israeli archaeologists

Discovered approximately 90 years ago, the fossil was reanalyzed using advanced micro-CT scanning and 3D modeling.

The skull of the child from Israel's Skhul Cave, showing the typical cranial curvature of Homo sapiens.

Archaeologists uncover ‘oldest nursing home' in Israel

While historical texts from the fifth and sixth centuries mention nursing homes, this is the first time a clear, physical artifact has been found that can be directly linked to them.

An ancient Byzantine-era mosaic in Hippos-Sussita, Israel, which reads "Peace on the elders." It is believed to be a sign of an ancient institution that cared for the elderly.

First-of-its-kind discovery: Ancient coin from Second Temple Era reveals rebel mindset

The rare bronze coin engraved in Hebrew with 'For the Redemption of Zion' was found near the southwest corner of the Temple Mount in the Jerusalem Archaeological Garden – Davidson Center.

The reverse of the coin features a lulav flanked by two etrogs, with the inscription “Year Four.”

New website helps you plan a self-guided trip to northern Israel

This rich source of suggestions for family activities, hikes, and sightseeing includes details such as directions, admission fees, historical background, nearby attractions, and more.

AN AERIAL view of Ganei Huga near Beit She’an

Archaeologists find 2,000-year-old gold ring in excavation of Israeli national park

“I was amazed by the find. To my delight, I also discovered a pair of gold earrings, but the ring, with its small and unique design, really moved me," volunteer Eddie Lipsman said.

A 2000-year-old gold ring discovered during excavations in Susita National Park.