Detail of mosaic flooring of the western (Nile) church in the ancient Nabatean city of Mamshit located in Israel's Negev desert
Mamshit is the ancient Nabatean city of Memphis, located on the ancient Incense Road winding from the east to the seaports and Jerusalem. Archeological excavations have revealed a city covering ten acres and is the smallest but best restored city in the Negev Desert. The once-luxurious houses have unusual architecture not found in any other Nabatean city. Excavation also revealed the biggest treasure ever found in Israel - 10500 silver coins, 158 pounds plumbum tonque with foundry signs and a papyrus cluster with Greek ancient texts. The reconstructed city gives the visitor a sense of how Mamshit once looked. Entire streets have survived intact, and there are also large groups of Nabatean buildings with open rooms, courtyards, and terraces. The stones are carefully chiseled and the arches that support the ceiling are remarkably well constructed. Two churches were discovered in Mamshit. The western Nile Church has a mosaic floor with colorful geometric patterns, birds, a fruit basket, and five dedications in Greek (the mosaic is not open to the public). The eastern church has a lectern on small marble pillars, the remnants of which can be seen at the site. Mamshit was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO on June 2005.
Size: 4750px × 3710px
Location: Mamshit, Negev desert, Israel
Photo credit: © Dan Rosen / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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