Archaeologists have discovered the oldest known remains of an ancient settlement in northeastern Jerusalem. Excavations of two Chalcolithic era (Copper Age) houses revealed complex dwelling structures, as well as pottery vessels, flint tools and a basalt bowl, which were all typical of the time. Artifacts such as small sickle blades, chisels, polished axes and mortars and pestles indicate the kinds of activities that were practiced in the community. The discovery points to a thriving population in the area, much earlier than previously believed.
Off-site Links:
- http://www.jpost.com/Israel-News/Culture/Archaeologists-discover-7000-year-old-Jerusalem-settlement-from-Chalcolithic-period-445206
- http://www.timesofisrael.com/jerusalem-was-inhabited-as-far-back-as-7000-years-ago-archaeologists-find/
- http://mfa.gov.il/mfa/israelexperience/history/pages/remains-of-fifth-millennium-bce-settlement-found-in-jerusalem-17-february-2016.aspx
