10-Year-Old Uncovers 100-Year-Old Religious Relic
During a school trip to Ein Kerem in the Judean Hills, 10-year-old Nehorai Nir made an unexpected discovery—a golden medallion with a micro-mosaic cross design. The find was later examined by Amit Re’em, an archaeologist from the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA). Ein Kerem is a historically important site, known for being the birthplace of John the Baptist and the location where Mary, the mother of Jesus, visited her cousin Elizabeth.
Nir explained how he initially found the medallion but set it aside after discovering a worm inside it. However, as he walked back up the hill, he noticed a colorful object shining in the dirt, which turned out to be the medallion. His excitement grew as he realized the significance of what he had found.
In Israel, any potential historical or unique artifact must be reported to the Antiquities Authority, as such items are considered state property. Keeping them without proper documentation is illegal and could lead to fines or imprisonment. While the medallion is not classified as an ancient artifact due to its age—estimated to be between 100 and 200 years old—it still sparked great interest.
Re’em highlighted the medallion’s exceptional craftsmanship, noting that the technique used to create it was developed in Rome around the early 1800s and continued until the early 20th century. He suggested that the cross medallion may have belonged to a Christian pilgrim who visited Ein Kerem 100 to 200 years ago, symbolizing the deep spiritual connection many pilgrims have to the Holy Land.
The discovery offers a glimpse into the devotion of Christian pilgrims who once journeyed long distances to visit sacred sites. While not an ancient relic, the medallion still represents the lasting significance of Ein Kerem as a place of spiritual importance for followers of the Christian faith.