• A picture shows a view of the archaeological site of Saint Hilarion in the centre of the Gaza Strip, on June 8, 2022. - While workers laboured on a large construction site in the Gaza Strip, a security guard noticed a strange piece of stone sticking out of the earth. This find made in January was part of a Roman necropolis dating from about 2,000 years ago, and representative of the impoverished coastal strip's rich, if under-developed, archaeological treasures. (Photo by MAHMUD HAMS / AFP)
    A picture shows a view of the archaeological site of Saint Hilarion in the centre of the Gaza Strip, on June 8, 2022. - While workers laboured on a large construction site in the Gaza Strip, a security guard noticed a strange piece of stone sticking out of the earth. This find made in January was part of a Roman necropolis dating from about 2,000 years ago, and representative of the impoverished coastal strip's rich, if under-developed, archaeological treasures. (Photo by MAHMUD HAMS / AFP)
  • While workers laboured on a large construction site in the Gaza Strip, a security guard noticed a strange piece of stone protruding from the earth.
    While workers laboured on a large construction site in the Gaza Strip, a security guard noticed a strange piece of stone protruding from the earth.
  • On further inspection, it was found to be part of a Roman necropolis.
    On further inspection, it was found to be part of a Roman necropolis.
  • The site is thought to be about 2,000 years old.
    The site is thought to be about 2,000 years old.
  • Saint Hilarion Monastery, also known as Tell Umm Amer, in the central Gaza Strip. Experts say the find was representative of the impoverished coastal strip's rich, if under-developed, archaeological treasures.
    Saint Hilarion Monastery, also known as Tell Umm Amer, in the central Gaza Strip. Experts say the find was representative of the impoverished coastal strip's rich, if under-developed, archaeological treasures.
  • The remains of an atrium at the ancient monastery.
    The remains of an atrium at the ancient monastery.
  • A delegation of EU diplomats visit the archaeological site.
    A delegation of EU diplomats visit the archaeological site.
  • A stunning aerial view of the site.
    A stunning aerial view of the site.

MENA

The archaeological site of Saint Hilarion in the Gaza Strip – in pictures

Ancient monastery dating back 2,000 years unearthed

The National

June 26, 2022

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Updated: June 26, 2022, 2:17 PM
Photography