Researchers in Israel have discovered what is believed to be the world’s oldest woven basket, dating back approximately 10,500 years, during an excavation in the Judean Desert. This find is part of a larger survey that also uncovered various ancient artifacts, including fragments of biblical scrolls, coins, and a 6,000-year-old skeleton.
The basket, found in a cave and exceptionally well-preserved due to the dry climate, has a capacity of 92 liters and was sealed with a lid, raising curiosity about its original contents. Experts from the Israel Antiquities Authority determined that the basket was made during the Pre-Pottery Neolithic period and showcased intricate weaving techniques likely created by two individuals.
This discovery is part of a rescue operation aimed at surveying hundreds of caves in the Judean Desert to protect hidden antiquities from looting. The excavation also revealed other significant finds, including 2,000-year-old biblical scroll fragments, ancient coins, Roman-period textiles, and organic materials like seeds and rope. Overall, these discoveries provide valuable insights into the lives of ancient people who inhabited this region.
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