Gaza City has yielded four Roman-era tombs, including two lead coffins adorned with intricate carvings. One coffin is delicately decorated with harvest motifs, while the other features dolphins gracefully navigating through water. This discovery has been celebrated by archaeologists for its potential to shed light on ancient agricultural practices and trade in Palestine.

A joint effort between Palestinian and French archaeologists is responsible for the ongoing excavation at the site. Jamal Abu Reida, director-general of Antiquities at the Palestinian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, highlighted the significance of these discoveries, noting the uncovering of 134 graves across an expansive area of nearly 43,000 square feet.

Archaeologist Fadel al-Otol emphasized the ongoing study and restoration efforts at the cemetery, aimed at eventually opening it to tourists and international researchers. Among the notable findings were numerous graves adorned with pyramid designs, along with fragments of jewelry and pottery.

Gaza City’s archaeological richness stems from its strategic location as a historical crossroads between Asia and Africa. However, progress in excavation and preservation efforts has been hindered by limited funding and geopolitical challenges, including Israel’s occupation of the area. The restoration of the 2,000-year-old Roman cemetery has received support from the British Council’s Fund for the Protection of Culture.

The cemetery, hidden beneath Gaza’s soil for centuries, was brought to light in December when Egyptian construction activities uncovered the site during reconstruction efforts in the northwest part of the city.