Hundreds of 500,000-Year-Old Handaxes Unearthed Near Tel Aviv

Hundreds of almond-shaped handaxes, known as amigdale, dating back approximately half a million years, were discovered near Jaljulia, close to Tel Aviv. The find was made by chance during routine excavations tied to urban development plans. The project was overseen by the Israel Antiquities Authority in collaboration with Tel Aviv University's Archaeology Department, with funding from the Israel Land Authority. Ran Barkai, head of the Archaeology Department at Tel Aviv University, described the discovery as surprising and unexpected. The site, likely over 500,000 years old, was rich in flint nodules used by Homo erectus for toolmaking, and was located near the ancient Nahal Qaneh stream. This abundance of resources attracted groups to settle and form communities. The article also notes that Israel has a history of significant archaeological finds: two years ago, the ancient city of Gath (Tel Zafit), known as the city of Goliath, was discovered between Jerusalem and Ashkelon, and a 10th-century BCE building possibly linked to King Solomon was found. Additionally, a protocol was signed between ANAS (Italian national road authority) and MIBACT (Italian Ministry of Cultural Heritage) to collaborate on archaeological discoveries during roadworks, creating new roles like 'site archaeologist' and partnering with the association Archeolog for restoration and exhibition.