Archaeological experts from Rome have concluded their meticulous work in a highly delicate section of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, as reported by the Custodia Terrae Sanctae, the entity overseeing Christian holy sites in Israel.

The University of Rome Sapienza’s Department of Antiquities conducted the excavation around the Holy Edicule, the primary tabernacle, as part of a NIS 41 million ($11 million) two-year renovation and archaeological project.

In accordance with Christian tradition, this revered site is believed to be the location where Jesus was crucified just beyond Jerusalem’s ancient walls 2,000 years ago, and where he was laid to rest in a nearby cave tomb.

Archaeologists tirelessly worked for a continuous period of seven days and nights, from June 20 to 27, meticulously excavating the area in front of the Edicule, the Times of Israel reported.

The expedited timeline aimed to minimize disturbances for visitors, necessitating the temporary closure of the Edicule.

Erected on the presumed site of Jesus’ burial cave, this recent excavation unearthed new insights into the early Christian design of the Edicule, portions of which date back to the 4th century.

Among the notable findings, a hoard of coins, spanning up to the reign of Roman Emperor Valens (364-378), was discovered beneath one of the floor slabs.

Another intriguing discovery consisted of a segment of wall cladding from the primary Edicule, adorned with graffiti from the 18th century in a variety of languages, including Greek, Latin, and Armenian.

Written by staff