Rare 1,600-year-old mosaic from Christian monastery unveiled after centuries of obscurity

Rare 1,600-year-old mosaic from Christian monastery unveiled after centuries of obscurity

Byzantine-era artwork showcases 55 medallions of mythological characters and exotic animals

Israeli officials recently opened an archaeological site featuring a remarkable Byzantine-era mosaic, one "clearly made by the hand of a true artist." (Israel Antiquities Authority)

The Be’er Shema mosaic was found in 1990 during an excavation in Kibbutz Urim. (Israel Antiquities Authority)

The Byzantine-era mosaic sheds light on daily life in antiquity. (Israel Antiquities Authority)

The colorful 1,600-year-old artwork features 55 distinct medallions. (Israel Antiquities Authority)