Horvat 'Ethri

Horvat 'Ethri is an archaeological site located in the Judean Lowlands of modern-day Israel, representing a Jewish village from the Second Temple period. The site is notable for its partially restored ancient synagogue, wine presses, cisterns, mikvehs, stone ossuaries, and an elaborate underground hideout system. It was first occupied during the late Persian period, with significant activity during the Hellenistic and Hasmonean periods, as evidenced by coins of that era. During the early Roman period, the village reached its peak before suffering damage in the First Jewish-Roman War and being violently destroyed during the Bar Kokhba revolt. The late Roman period saw the restoration of the site by a new population, although it was eventually abandoned in the 4th century CE. Horvat 'Ethri offers insights into the Jewish presence and resilience in the region during these tumultuous times.