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Ancient footprints discovered in Israel
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Israeli archaeologists in Lod recently discovered ancient foot and sandal prints when removing a mosaic floor. They estimate the prints to be approximately 1,700 years old and resemble a modern sandal of today. The footprint sizes varied from an American shoe size of 2 to 10 ½. Jacques Neguer, head of the Israel Antiquities Authority said, “…it seems that the group of builders tamped the mortar in place with their feet.”
The mosaic floor was actually uncovered thirteen years ago and dates back to the Roman period. The Authority describes the mosaic as one of the largest and most magnificent floors found in Israel. The floor was then covered until further funding could be found. The ancient footprints were discovered when archaeologists again began removing this mosaic for conservation.
Archaeologists estimate that the floor was part of a villa belonging to a wealthy Roman. The floor vividly depicts mammals, birds, fish, floral species and sailing and merchant vessels used during that time.
The footprints will eventually be removed for conservation and exhibited with the mosaic flooring at a Lod museum.
