GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip (AP) — Palestinian workers in the Gaza Strip have found dozens of ancient graves, including two sarcophagi made of lead, in a Roman-era cemetery — a site dating back some 2,000 years that archaeologists describe as the largest cemetery discovered in Gaza. Workers came upon the site last year during the construction of an Egyptian-funded housing project near Jabaliya, in the northern Gaza Strip. Since then, crews have worked to excavate the 2,700-square-meter (2/3 acre) site with the support of French experts. Now, what was once an inconspicuous construction lot — surrounded by a grove of nondescript apartment buildings — has become a gold mine for archaeologists looking to understand more about the Gaza Strip. Gaza, a coastal enclave home to some 2.3 million people, has a rich history stemming from its location on ancient trade routes between Egypt and the Levant. But a number of factors — Israeli occupation, Hamas’ 16-year takeover of the territory and rapid urban growth — have conspired to endanger many of the besieged strip’s archaeological treasures. |
Christopher Luxon leaves Big Gay Out after heated protestChina celebrates 100 years of Communist PartyHong Kong Book Fair: Two local publishers keep titles on sale despite security law complaintsQanon: Conspiracy theories weaponised by Russia and China around US Capitol violenceGovernment unveils plan to fastDonald Trump immunity claim rejected by US courtHow to get around the great Easter flight ripQanon: Conspiracy theories weaponised by Russia and China around US Capitol violenceYour guide to a year in Greece: Time your trip to get the best of the country's historic sitesKing Charles leaves hospital as Kate recovers at home