Khirbet Birzeit Research and Excavation 2000: Fourth Season Excavation

Abstract

In a joint project with the Department of Old Testament Studies and Biblical Archaeology of Mainz University, the Palestinian institute of Archaeology of Birzeit University has conducted its fourth season of excavation from July 17 to August 7, 2000. Excavations were carried out southwest of Area D, to the east of the freestanding Original Building (Area A and B; see fig.1). It was planned in the fourth season to reveal further related structures, especially assumed remains from the Iron Age and Greek/ Hellenistic periods. Five squares (4X4) were opened, whereas only the southern halves of the first and third squares, and the northern halves of the second and fourth square, were excavated (fig.2). Wall 603 in square 5 was partially exposed (fig. 3). The bedrock was reached only in square 4. Four occupation levels were determined, including the topsoil.