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Ancient Souvenir Tools Unearthed at West Bank Monastery

12/25/2025

30 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Israeli archaeologists at the Hyrcania site in the West Bank uncovered tools used about 1,400 years ago to craft souvenirs for pilgrims.
A Byzantine mold for flasks inscribed with “Lord’s blessing from the holy places,” along with a ring and gold coins, was found.
The site was built by Hasmonean rulers and later became a Christian monastery.
Excavations since 2023 aim to prevent looting and reveal the monastery’s history.

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Story summary

Israeli archaeologists at the Hyrcania site in the West Bank uncovered tools used about 1,400 years ago to craft souvenirs for pilgrims.
A Byzantine mold for flasks inscribed with “Lord’s blessing from the holy places,” along with a ring and gold coins, was found.
The site was built by Hasmonean rulers and later became a Christian monastery.
Excavations since 2023 aim to prevent looting and reveal the monastery’s history.