Israeli archaeologists during the excavations near the mount Tabor found the remains of an ancient Christian Church which has surprised scientists with its magnificent mosaics and a reliquary.
Information about the discovery was published on the website of the Ministry of foreign Affairs of Israel. Excavations were conducted in the village of Kfar Kama. The age of the temple is about 1300 years. The findings prove that in the Byzantine period the area of mount Tabor had important religious significance for Christians. After all, this place was revered as the place of the Transfiguration of our Lord described in the Gospels of the phenomenon of Divine Majesty and glory of Jesus Christ to the three closest disciples in prayer on the mountain.
According to head archaeologist of the excavation Norita Feiga from the Israel antiquities authority, the Church 12×36 meters includes a large courtyard and Central hall. Its peculiarity was the presence of three apses – the prayer niches. Most churches of that time would cost one apse.
“the Nave and aisles were paved with mosaics, which are partially preserved, says Feig. – Colorful design different geometric patterns, blue, black and red floral patterns. An unexpected discovery was a small reliquary stone box in which were kept the Holy relics”.
Next to the Church was excavated an additional room. According to the researchers, “it is possible that this large complex was a monastery.” By the way, in the beginning of 1960-ies in the village, was excavated a small Church with two chapels, Dating from the first half of the VI century of our era.
According to the study co-author Professor Moti Aviama probably half a century ago has been found simple village Church. And the newly discovered Church was probably part of a monastery located on the outskirts of the village.
by the Way, in 1876, in Kfar Kama, settled Circassian tribe of Shapsug. Archaeologists say that the construction of their houses, these people used the stones that remained from the ancient village.
