Mass Grave in Israel Is From Roman Times
Israeli archeologists have discovered a mass grave in Galilee dating from a Jewish revolt against Rome 19 centuries ago.
“We uncovered in a cistern many, many people, including young children and teenagers about 16 years old,” archeologist Mordechai Aviam said Tuesday.
“Those are probably families that died in the siege,” he said.
Roman forces besieged the city of Yodfat in their march on Jerusalem in AD 67 and captured it after 47 days. The discovery confirms reports of Jewish historian Josephus, who survived the attack by surrendering to the Romans.
After he surrendered, Josephus accompanied the Roman army in chains as it conquered all of ancient Israel, recording those events.
Aviam said Josephus’ description leads him to believe that the bones he found a week ago are of people who died in the siege.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
