In brief
Ziv Nitzan's incredible find connects the past with the present and showcases children's potential in archaeology.
A captivating archaeological discovery was made by a three-year-old girl during a family hike outside Jerusalem. Ziv Nitzan stumbled upon a small rock that intrigued her due to its unusual texture, which she described as having "teeth." Upon picking it up and wiping off the dirt, Ziv and her mother, Sivan, realized that it was far more than just a simple pebble; it was a 3,800-year-old Egyptian scarab amulet from the Bronze Age, as confirmed by the Israel Antiquities Authority.This incredible find is just one among many made by children in Israel, a nation rich in archaeological history. The area has seen previous discoveries, including a Roman-era ring engraved with the image of the goddess Minerva found by a 13-year-old boy hiking last year, and a 7-year-old boy who uncovered a well-preserved carving dating back 3,400 years in the Beit She’an Valley during a trip with friends.Ziv's amulet, which will be displayed in an upcoming exhibition, serves as a reminder of the hidden treasures waiting to be found on Israel's ancient trails and highlights the importance of encouraging the curiosity of young explorers. As family hikes continue to uncover historical artifacts, the excitement surrounding these finds fosters a deeper connection to the region's rich past.
