Archaeologists from the Israel Antiquities Authority have unearthed an intriguing artifact at the City of David National Park: a gaming die dating back to the 13th century.

Discovered during routine soil sifting at the Pool of Siloam, the bone die features engraved circles with numbers from 1 to 6, resembling modern dice.

Directors of the excavation, Dr. Philip Waksovich and Itamar Barkai, highlighted the significance of the find, noting that bones were commonly used to create various everyday items in ancient times, including gaming tools.

This particular die is recognized as the oldest known gaming tool, predating similar artifacts from as early as 2000 BCE, Jerusalem Post has reported.

Accurately dated to the Ayyubid period, specifically the 13th to 14th centuries CE, it offers a glimpse into leisure activities of the time.

The City of David remains a crucial archaeological site, revealing insights into ancient daily life. This discovery joins a growing collection of artifacts shedding light on historical civilizations in the region.

The Israel Antiquities Authority plans to exhibit the ancient gaming die, allowing the public to engage with the past through shared leisure pursuits across cultures and centuries.

Written by B.C. Begley