Another excavation within the confines of the prison that was erected where the Talmudic village of Othnai once stood. The remains of ashlar construction dating to the Late Roman and Byzantine periods were exposed.
Ritual baths and a wine press paved with a mosaic were uncovered. A magnificent bronze oil lamp was found that is preserved intact.
In another part of the area a rectangular complex was exposed from the Byzantine period with a mosaic floor decorated with geometric patterns, a medallion with fish and three inscriptions in Greek. The deciphered inscriptions suggest this building had something to do with Christian cult practices. The excavation is continuing in order to ascertain the nature of the complex.
Yotam Tepper
