Excavations at the pyramid-like structure discovered in the Judean Desert. Photo: Israel Antiquities Authority.
An Israel Antiquities Authority archaeological team, in collaboration with the Ministry of Heritage and with the participation of volunteers from across the country, has uncovered a monumental pyramid-like structure in the Judean Desert, north of Nahal Zohar.
This find, dating back to the period when the Ptolemies and Seleucids ruled the region, revolutionizes our understanding of the area's rich past and raises new questions about its function and significance.
So far, not only has the pyramid-like structure, built with hand-carved stones each weighing hundreds of kilograms, been revealed, but also an intermediate station located beneath the structure. Among the discoveries are papyrus documents written in Greek, bronze coins from the reigns of the Ptolemies and Antiochus IV, weapons, wooden tools, and textiles, all remarkably well-preserved thanks to the desert's arid climate.
A Major Discovery in the Judean Desert
The excavation leaders, Matan Toledano, Dr. Eitan Klein, and Amir Ganor, have described the site as one of the richest and most intriguing archaeological finds in the Judean Desert.
From the first week of excavations, volunteers unearthed historical documents, exquisite bronze vessels, and remnants of ancient furniture. "Each day brings new discoveries, filling us with anticipation for what we might find in the next three weeks," the experts stated.
Unprecedented Findings Revealed
This discovery is part of an ambitious archaeological research program launched eight years ago to preserve the Judean Desert's historical remnants, which are threatened by illegal excavations and looting.
The initiative, jointly funded by the Ministry of Heritage, the Civil Administration of Judea and Samaria, and the Israel Antiquities Authority, has enabled the systematic study of 180 kilometers of rocky terrain, where approximately 900 caves have been identified.
Using rappelling equipment, advanced technology, and specialized documentation methods, thousands of rare artifacts have been recovered, including papyri deliberately hidden in caves, papyrus fragments, wooden utensils, weapons, leather items, and coin hoards.
The Nahal Zohar excavation also challenges previous interpretations of the site's dating. The structure was previously attributed to the First Temple period, but current evidence suggests it was built later, during the Hellenistic period, when Israel was under Ptolemaic rule.
Fragment of papyrus discovered at the site. Photo: Israel Antiquities Authority.
"We still do not know for certain what the function of this building was. It could have been an observation post protecting a vital trade route used to transport raw materials from the Dead Sea, such as salt and asphalt, to Mediterranean ports. Another possibility is that it served as a monumental tomb or as a symbolic marker in antiquity," explained Toledano, Klein, and Ganor.
One of the Most Significant Operations in Israel's History
Eli Eskosido, Director of the Israel Antiquities Authority, emphasized the significance of the excavation within the context of national archaeological research.
"The archaeological research in the Judean Desert is one of the most significant operations in the history of the State of Israel. The discoveries are thrilling and of great value for historical and archaeological research. Now, in the midst of spring and a few days before Passover, I invite the public to participate in this unique experience. In such a difficult time as today, spending a few days in the Judean Desert and becoming part of these discoveries can be an enriching and transformative experience," he stated.
To facilitate public participation, the Israel Antiquities Authority has created an organized campsite providing accommodation, food, and water for volunteers, as well as nightly lectures on archaeology.
The excavation will continue for another three weeks, with the expectation that new discoveries will help clarify the mystery of the pyramid at Nahal Zohar and its role in the region's history.
