Ancient Samaria Excavation Site Opens to Public During Sukkot Holiday

During the intermediate days of the Sukkot holiday, the "Treasures of Samaria" sorting center in Shavei Shomron will open to the public. This center allows visitors to sift through soil excavated from ancient Samaria, as part of a new "Race for a Million" family game. The archaeological project has already yielded significant finds from various periods of ancient Samaria's history, including coins, figurines, pottery, glass, bones, and even half a marble statue. These discoveries are helping researchers understand the daily life, trade, and culture of the region over thousands of years.

Ancient Samaria served as the capital of the Kingdom of Israel during the time of the kings and later became a Hellenistic city, further developed by King Herod. Current excavations have uncovered the city's southern wall, its gate, and watchtowers, alongside remnants of a Roman theater, indicating the city's past prominence. The excavations, managed by the Civil Administration's archaeology department, are described by excavation director Uzi Greenfeld as a "tremendous archaeological experience" and a "dream for the entire archaeological world," allowing for the first time in 120 years to excavate the city mentioned in the Bible.

The "Race for a Million" game is an interactive family activity that will guide participants through heritage and settlement sites in northern Samaria using an app, riddles, and field tasks. The sorting center in Shavei Shomron serves as the starting point. The game is non-competitive, aiming to provide families with an experiential journey into the history, Bible, Zionism, and settlement of the region.

Samaria Regional Council head Yossi Dagan invited the public to visit Shavei Shomron during Sukkot, emphasizing the opportunity to connect with their roots, discover ancient Samarian treasures, and participate in the "Race for a Million" game. He also highlighted visits to revitalized settlements like Homesh and Shavei Shomron, and Sebastia, where the Gush Emunim movement renewed settlement in Samaria.

Numerous other events are planned across Samaria during Sukkot, including a march between the resettled communities of Ganim and Kedumim, guided tours and games at Mount Gerizim, escape rooms and virtual reality at the Alon Moreh Heritage Center, and a Sukkot festival at Mount Ebal with crafts and performances. Visitors can also explore nature reserves, go on off-road tours, visit agricultural farms, and enjoy boutique wineries and springs throughout the region.