Jerusalem – Israel Unveils 1,800-year-old Sarcophagus

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    An employee of the Israel Antiquities Authority cleans an engraving on a sarcophagus as it is  displayed for the media near the Israeli town of Beit Shemesh September 3, 2015. REUTERSJerusalem – Israel has unveiled an 1,800-year-old sarcophagus that workers found at a building site and initially tried to conceal.

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    The Antiquities Authority called the sarcophagus, which was shown to media Thursday, “one of the most important and beautiful” ever found in Israel.

    The two-ton limestone coffin features a life-size carving of a human figure wearing a toga on the lid and designs around the sides, including a Medusa head. Archaeologist Gaby Mazor says the piece dates back to the 3rd century and was likely commissioned by a wealthy Roman family.

    Antiquities Authority Spokeswoman Yoli Shwartz says it was damaged when workers unearthed it at a construction site. Contractors then hid the piece, fearing it would force them to halt work. She said legal action would be taken.


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