1,600-Year-Old Byzantine Mosaic Finally on Display in the Negev!
A breathtaking 1,600-year-old mosaic, widely considered one of the most exquisite ever found in Israel, has finally been revealed to the public, shining new light on the region’s rich past. Discovered back in 1990 near Kibbutz Urim, close to the Gaza border, the Be’er Shema (or Birsama) mosaic has now found a permanent home at the Merhavim Regional Council offices in the western Negev, following years of careful conservation work.
Photo Credit: Emil Aladjem, Israel Antiquities Authority
Dating from the Byzantine period (324–638 CE), the mosaic was once part of a large monastic complex. It’s made up of 55 intricately detailed medallions featuring mythological figures, exotic animals, hunting scenes, and vivid depictions of daily life. The craftsmanship is stunning, each image painstakingly formed from tiny fragments of stone, glass, and pottery.
Archaeologist Shaike Lender, who led the original excavation for the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA), described the mosaic’s creator as “a true artist.” And it’s easy to see why, the level of detail and colour remains impressive even after sixteen centuries.
The site where the mosaic was uncovered also yielded evidence of a self-sustaining monastic community, including a large winepress and numerous storage jars, suggesting the monks were actively involved in wine production.
Photo Credit: Emil Aladjem, Israel Antiquities Authority
Positioned along an ancient trade route linking Halutza in the Negev to the port city of Gaza, the settlement likely served as a much-needed rest stop for travellers making their way across the arid landscape. This route was once part of the famed Nabataean-Roman spice trail and marked the boundary between desert and cultivated land.
After its discovery, the mosaic was initially protected under layers of material to shield it from weather and farming activity. However, over time, it began to suffer damage, prompting emergency conservation efforts led by the IAA and the Israeli Ministry of Heritage. Thanks to the “Antiquities Right at Home” project, the mosaic was recently re-excavated, fully restored, and relocated to a purpose-built public display space.
Photo Credit: Nachshon Sneh, Israel Antiquities Authority
Shay Hajaj, Head of the Merhavim Regional Council, called the mosaic “a living testament to life that existed in the Negev roughly 1,500 years ago,” and said it would serve as a centre for tourism and education, drawing visitors, students, and locals alike.
Today, the restored mosaic is the centrepiece of an open archaeological garden, complete with informative signage, seating areas, and easy access. It’s not only a striking example of ancient artistry but also a bridge between past and present, a reminder of the region’s enduring cultural legacy.