Archaeologists in Israel have uncovered a remarkable treasure hoard near one of Christianity’s most important regions — the Galilee, where Jesus preached and performed miracles.
The Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) announced that 22 bronze coins were discovered in Hukok, just three miles west of Capernaum, a fishing town central to Jesus’ ministry. The coins, dating back more than 1,600 years, were linked to the Gallus Revolt of 351–352 A.D., the last Jewish uprising under Roman rule.
IAA researcher Uri Berger explained that the find was deliberately hidden: the hoard was placed “in a small crevice prepared deep in an underground hiding complex,” suggesting its owners intended to reclaim it after the turmoil.
The tunnels where the coins were found had been used during earlier Jewish revolts — including the Great Revolt in the first century and the Bar-Kochba Revolt in the second century. “This shows that hundreds of years after these tunnels were dug out, they were reused,” the IAA noted.
The discovery was made by volunteers excavating the site for future tourism. Einat Ambar-Armon of the IAA praised the effort, saying, “The excavation thus became not only an important scientific event, but also a significant communal educational experience – one that brings the public closer to its heritage.”
IAA Director Eli Escusido added that the site could soon welcome visitors worldwide: “We are working together so that the entire public can enjoy the hidden treasures of this site.”
The find is a powerful reminder of the region’s deep biblical and historical roots — and a link between the struggles of ancient Israel and the land where Christ once walked.
