Our third day brought an amazing opportunity. On the south-west outskirts of the settlement, was a round structure. Apparently, circular structures are either little-known, or nonexistent in Ancient Israel. Here was an opportunity to excavate an anomaly.
The circular structure was approximately 13' (+/-) in diameter, with rectangular stones framing it. There is a sill with a channel carved into the center, the likes that have been seen in funeral tombs.
The circular structure
The sill
Dallin digging out the circular structure
Another friend
Dirty Work
Slightly less dirty...hmmm.
AN ANCIENT QUARRY
One of the areas of import, was a deep quarry. The photos of the quarry can't do it justice. At approximately 60' under the ground, it is an ominous room. The work ethic of those who created and drew from this quarry is beyond impressive.
The circular structure continued to be a mystery. What first appeared to be cover stones to cover bodies, later appeared to be the ceiling, which had come down (spoiler alert: it did). Bucket after bucket-full of dirt kept coming out, and we were nowhere near the bottom. Oren Gutfeld, the site's Archaeologist, examining the site. EXPLORING TIME One of the greatest parts of the site, is that there are things EVERYWHERE to explore! Take for instance this inconspicuous small fig tree. It doesn't look like much, until you realize this is only the tip of a TALL tree growing out of a hidden columbarium. Columbarium, or dove cotes are niches carved into the soft rock, allowing a pair of doves per hole. The odd thing about this columbarium, was that the dove-cotes were square, as opposed to the usual triangular niches. This appeared to be a triangular niche for lights(?) "JUST" ANOTHER COLUMBARIUM "JUST" ANOTHER BURIAL CHAMBER Turtle shell. I don'...
Some of the members of our group attempted to visit the Garden Tomb . If you're not familiar with this place, it is very sacred. The members of our group were unable to attend, due to the place closing, but after a short argument, were allowed to come back the following day and help clean the grounds. While this might not seem like a good compromise, to be able to spend the quiet hours of the morning, preparing it for the spiritual experiences awaiting those who were to come, was indeed a special experience. The experience was so unique, and the work was a blessing. The Garden Tomb in the morning hours A familiar sacred symbol
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