Intriguing discovery: archaeologists have unearthed a Canaanite sanctuary in Israel (photos).

Recently, archaeologists unearthed a massive ancient structure in Tel Shimron in northern Israel, discovering an unusual collection of Canaanite artifacts believed to be around 3,800 years old, writes GreekReporter.

This find includes ceremonial items, notably a Minoan jug from Crete, suggesting possible interactions between the Canaanites and other distant ancient civilizations.

Historical records indicate that this once was a key Canaanite city with extensive trade connections.

Inside the structure, archaeologists found charred animal bones, pottery from various regions, and two small bull figurines, which may have represented deities worshipped by the Canaanites.

These artifacts were arranged in a specific manner, indicating the sacred usage of this site. It has only been partially excavated, but the size and uniqueness of the structure are already attracting significant attention.

The structure reaches heights of 5-6 meters, sharply contrasting with the surrounding area, which is predominantly built from dark stone, as its apex is covered in white chalk.

Professor Daniel Master from Wheaton College, who, along with Dr. Mario Martin from Tel Aviv University, is leading the excavations, describes it as a "monument." Although the exact purpose of the structure remains unknown, Master believes it served as a symbol of power.

One notable area within the structure is the "favissa," or a designated space for old religious artifacts. This room, measuring 68 square meters, housed a wealth of Middle Bronze Age artifacts, making it one of the richest collections found in the region.

Constructed with thick walls of mud brick, which originally had a staircase leading to it, the room was eventually sealed off, and its contents ended up exposed to the elements.

Researchers believe this space was later used for storing remains of religious rituals, as it contained about 40,000 animal bones—primarily from sheep, cattle, and goats—burned at high temperatures.

Additionally, more than 57,000 ceramic items were discovered, including rare miniature jugs and an ornate Minoan jug, with the Minoan artifact being one of only three ever found in Israel.

Archaeologists suggest that the collection holds religious significance, as the pottery and bronze bull figurines resemble those found at temple sites. The figurines may depict important Canaanite gods such as El or Baal.

It is highly likely that these items were part of a large ceremony or several closely timed rituals, with some pottery deliberately broken before being placed in the favissa.

While the Bible mentions Tel Shimron as a site of Israelite conquest, later civilizations, particularly the Romans, Islamic rulers, and Ottomans, occupied the surrounding areas but did not build directly on this mound.

Whether out of respect or practical considerations, this unique site was left untouched, preserving its ancient significance.

We also shared about the birthplace of Totonac culture. This site thrived between 200 and 100 B.C. and remained inhabited for several centuries thereafter.