Ancient Bar Kokhba revolt-era hiding tunnels, Byzantine church reopened to public in Israel
Researchers have proposed the settlement is that of Kfar Bish, a 1st century settlement mentioned first in the writings of Flavius Josephus.
An archaeological site in Horvat Burgin, located in Adullam-France Park (Parc de France-Adoulam) in Israel, has recently been reopened to the public. The complex consists of a Byzantine church and underground tunnels that were used by Jewish rebels during the ancient Bar Kokhba revolt, which took place between 132-136 CE.
Excavations, conservation, and development work were conducted by the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) and Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael–Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF) to ensure the area was safe for tourists. Previous excavations by IAA officials revealed evidence of a significant Second Temple settlement that persisted through the Ottoman period.
The settlement housed Jewish rebels, who created a network of hiding tunnels in anticipation of conflict. The Romans eventually besieged and destroyed the settlement during the Bar Kokhba revolt. After the Roman period, the area was repopulated by a pagan population who built above ground and carved burial sites beneath.
The IAA's Dr. Amir Ganor, Dr. Alon Klein, and Dr. Peter Gendelman conducted the excavations, which uncovered mosaics, columbaria (pigeon raising infrastructure), and winepresses. Safeguards against looters were paramount during the Byzantine era, when many artifacts were stolen from burial caves and the site's structures.
Dr. Ganor emphasized that through the joint efforts of the IAA, KKL-JNF, and enforcement of looting laws, the damage to the site has been halted, enabling it to be enjoyed by the public. KKL-JNF chair Eyal Ostrinsky highlighted the organization's commitment to protecting Israel's heritage, stating that the site is an integral part of Israel's story.
Mateh Yehuda Regional Council head Avishai Cohen added that the development of the site is crucial for strengthening tourism in the region. The site's reopening allows the local community and younger generations to grow proud of their roots and establish a deep connection to the land. IAA deputy director-general Ami Shahar noted that preserving these impressive remains is a vital responsibility to ensure they remain a cultural asset for future generations.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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