Weary travelers have always needed a place to rest and recuperate, from the harsh conditions and terrains of the Silk Route, to the more plush comforts that accompany modern travel. In Israel, an ancient Byzantine mosaic has been restored with the help of local residents on the Trans-Israel Highway, or a ‘Byzantine Route 6’.
The mosaic, which was located at the Horvat El-Bira archaeological site in the central town of Shoham, was built over 2,000 years ago during the Roman era as part of a rural villa with agricultural processing installations and homes for the residents, reports The Times of Israel .
The mosaic is intricately patterned with bright red flowers that are believed to be kalaniyot or anemones, which add bursts of color to the surrounding hillside during the winter months. The mosaic, which is made up of tiny, colored stone chips, is a testament to the skill and artistry of the Byzantine mosaic-makers.
The mosaic includes what looks like kalaniyot or anemones, which are flowers found on the hillside. (Emil Algam/ IAA)
“The needs of humans haven’t changed over thousands of years, because after a few hours of traveling I have to stop and get some water,” said Yair Amitzur, the director of the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) Central Region Educational Center. The IAA has been leading the dig and has collaborated with local residents for the restoration.
The Horvat El-Bira site with a view of the offices of Israel Antiquities Authority Central Region in Shoham (Emil Algam/
