The Samaritan Mansion: Echo of an Ancient Civilization

In September 2025, Israeli archaeologists unearthed a Samaritan mansion in Kafr Qasim, central Israel, dating back approximately 1,600 years. This find, located in the Khirbet Kafr Ḥatta archaeological site, reveals aspects of the daily life of a community that flourished between the 4th and 7th centuries AD.

The discovered structure includes a mosaic floor adorned with acanthus leaves and rare depictions of fruits and vegetables, such as grapes, dates, melons, artichokes, and asparagus. A partially preserved Greek inscription wishes good luck to the mansion's owner, whose name was common among Samaritan communities at the time. Additionally, an olive press, a ritual bath (mikveh), and ceramic lamps typical of Samaritan tradition were found.

This site offers a window into the prosperity and transformation of the Samaritan community over the centuries, reflecting both its material wealth and cultural resilience.

Paulo Freitas do Amaral

Professor, Historian and Author