Ziv Nitzan, a 3-year-old girl, found a Bronze Age scarab amulet in Israel, drawing attention to several similar discoveries made by children in the region. This event highlights Israel's historical significance and the role of young explorers in archaeology.
Little Explorer Uncovers 3,800-Year-Old Egyptian Treasure in Israel
Little Explorer Uncovers 3,800-Year-Old Egyptian Treasure in Israel
A young girl stumbles upon a remarkable ancient amulet while hiking with her family, shedding light on Israel's rich archaeological heritage.
In an extraordinary event showcasing the rich archaeological history of Israel, a 3-year-old girl recently unearthed a 3,800-year-old Egyptian scarab amulet during a family hike. Ziv Nitzan discovered the ancient artifact on a trail about 25 miles from Jerusalem, drawn to a small rock because "it had teeth on it," as her mother, Sivan Nitzan, translated from Hebrew.
Upon cleaning the object, Ziv realized it was something historically significant, leading the Israel Antiquities Authority to confirm its date from the Bronze Age. The engraved scarab design adds value to this find, highlighting the deep connections to Egypt in ancient times.
This incident is not unique, as Israel's landscapes have revealed numerous archaeological treasures found by children in recent years. A 13-year-old boy previously discovered a Roman-era ring featuring an engraving of the goddess Minerva, while another 7-year-old found a 3,400-year-old carving of a nude woman in the Beit She’an Valley. Numerous children have also unearthed coins from Roman and Hasmonean periods.
Ziv’s discovery adds to the ongoing narrative of children playing a pivotal role in archaeology, suggesting a bright future for other potential findings. Her charming encounter with ancient history will be highlighted in an upcoming exhibition, showcasing her role in uncovering the treasures of the past and inspiring future generations to explore and appreciate history.
