Ashkelon, one of Israel’s oldest cities, has just unveiled a remarkable archaeological discovery—two Roman-era vaulted tombs adorned with stunning wall paintings. These artworks, depicting Greek mythological characters, plants, animals, and other vibrant scenes, offer a rare glimpse into the region’s history. Found in a public area near Ashkelon’s marina, the tombs are over 1,700 years old, and will soon be accessible to the public, showcasing the city’s celebration of its ancient heritage.
Dr. Elena Kogan-Zehavi, Israel Antiquities Authority, who uncovered one of the tombs about 30 years ago, standing in the tombs after the recent restoration work. (IAA)
A Window into the Ancient World
The tombs, first discovered in the 1930s and recently conserved, are set within a newly created public garden surrounded by modern residential towers. This initiative is part of a broader effort by the Ashkelon Municipality and the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) to integrate the city’s historical treasures into public spaces, providing both residents and visitors with direct access to its ancient past.
One of the tombs, dating back to the early 4th century AD, was originally excavated by a British expedition and features a hall with four burial troughs. The walls of the passageway are decorated with an array of detailed paintings, including depictions of Demeter, the Greek goddess of earth and grain, and other mythological figures such as nymphs with lotus plant wreaths, children harvesting grapes, and even
