A series of Roman-era caves was discovered beneath the modern Galilean village of Eilabun, which was a Jewish settlement 2000 years ago. The cave system, located 10 ft (3 m) below the current ground level, had been recently dug out and plundered. Archaeologists who were called in found a large, central cavern which was 13 x 20 ft (4 x 6 m) in size and 6.5 ft (2 m) in height, with several smaller chambers branching off of the main one. It is believed the caves once served as a stable and storage area in ancient times. The remains of a stone animal trough as well as fragments of various pots and other vessels were discovered; all other artifacts had since been removed, and presumably sold on the antiquities market. The IAA and local police worked together investigating the site, which led to the arrest of two village residents suspected of carrying out illegal excavations.
Off-site Links:
- https://www.haaretz.com/archaeology/1.818044
- http://www.jpost.com/Israel-News/Roman-era-cave-system-in-Lower-Galilee-plundered-by-thieves-507750