Jerusalem archaeology

US returns two rare, ancient coins to Israel following joint antiquities theft investigation

One of the coins, depicting the Temple's seven-branched menorah, was minted in Hasmonean-ruled Jerusalem, while the other, the second of its kind ever found, was minted in ancient Ashkelon.

Hasmonean-era coin depicted the seven-branched menorah (L) and silver tetradrachm minted in Ashkelon during the Persian period (R) which were returned to Israel from the United States earlier this week, May 13, 2026.
Ancient bullae found in Jerusalem, May 1, 2026.

IAA reveals new study focused on ancient Jerusalem bullae in honor of Israel Excellence Week

THE RITUAL purification bath (mikveh) from the Second Temple period.

Israel uncovers Second Temple-period mikveh beneath Western Wall

AN ANCIENT menorah pendant from the Byzantine period, found in Jerusalem.

Ancient lead menorah pendant sheds light on Jewish presence in Byzantine Jerusalem


Hasmonean era 'first wall' section revealed at Tower of David museum excavation - interview

Israel’s Heritage Minister, Rabbi Amichai Eliyahu, called the discovery: “tangible and moving evidence of Jerusalem’s might and stature during the Hasmonean period.”

Archaeologist Amit Re'em and Eilat Lieber, director of the Tower of David Jerusalem Museum stand atop the recently uncovered section of the Hasmonean wall.

New Israeli technology lets archaeologists see underground without digging

Using muon detectors, the team produced detailed images of underground features, including tunnels and cisterns, based on how soil absorbs cosmic radiation.

 A paleontologist cleaning a skeleton during an archaeology dig; illustrative.

New digital archive gives global access to Israel’s archaeological treasures

The Israel Antiquities Authority has launched a new database holding over three million historically significant records.

An intricately decorated 1,700-year-old ceramic oil lamp adorned with symbols linked to the Jewish Temple and discovered on Jerusalem's Mount of Olives, displayed in Jerusalem on Dec. 26, 2024

What’s in a name? Diving into the ancient names of biblical Israel

Ancient name data reveals Israel was more diverse than Judah, offering new insight into biblical-era societies through a modern statistical lens.

 Ancient seals and seal impressions.

Was literacy important in the biblical Kingdom of Judah? Expert offers answers

Questions related to literacy in ancient times are not an exclusive prerogative of academic studies on the Israelites.

 Bulla found in Lachish.

'Jerusalem Through the Ages': What archaeology reveals about the history of Jerusalem - review

This is both positive and a challenge for readers; it’s dense, meticulous, and sometimes overwhelming.

 A view of Jerusalem’s Temple Mount.

Largest ever Second Temple era quarry discovered in Har Hotzvim Hi-Tech Park, Jerusalem

Archaeologists excavated 3,500 square meters of earth in one section of the massive quarry.

 The main street that led to the Temple Mount approximately 2,000 years ago. It is being uncovered in the excavations of the Israel Antiquities Authority at the City of David, August 1, 2024.

When Britain’s King George V ‘met’ the founder of its most famous beer, on walls in Jerusalem

These walls continue to talk to us and reveal Jerusalem’s history."

 Shai Halevy and Michael Chernin of the Israel Antiquities Authority during the research on the coats of arms.

Rare 2,550-year-old silver coin from Persian era uncovered in Jerusalem area

Dr. Robert Kool: “The rare find contributes information concerning the way trade was carried out."

 The rare coin, providing evidence for the development of commerce.

Grapevine: A well-deserved tribute

Movers and shakers in Israeli society.

 Giv‘ati Parking Lot Excavations at the City of David.