Archaeologists from the University of Haifa have uncovered a 1,600-year-old mosaic in Sussita (Hippos) National Park near the Sea of Galilee, featuring a Greek inscription reading “Peace on the elders,” which may be the earliest evidence of a dedicated institution for the elderly.

Dating to the late fourth or early fifth century CE, the mosaic was found at the entrance of a public building and decorated with imagery such as Egyptian water lilies, cypress trees, and fruits, suggesting a spiritual and communal purpose.

The discovery provides the first physical proof that care for older adults in Byzantine cities extended beyond family responsibility to organized social institutions, The Jerusalem Post has reported.

Researchers say the mosaic reflects the city’s social and religious values, highlighting the community’s respect and structured support for its elderly citizens.