An ancient burial with human remains, ritual objects and jewelry was found on the Tel Shimron mound in northern Israel.

Archaeologists have discovered a Canaanite sanctuary dating back about 3,800 years on the ancient mound of Tel Shimron in northern Israel. Inside the structure were found the remains of animals, pottery and figurines of bulls, which probably symbolized the gods that the Canaanites practiced worship. Many artifacts, including Minoan artifacts, testified to the sacred function of the sanctuary. The size and uniqueness of the finds arouse considerable interest among researchers.

One of the features was the presence of a “favissa”, where old religious objects were kept. About 40 thousand burnt animal bones and more than 57 thousand ceramic objects were discovered in it. Researchers believe that the room was used for ritual purposes and ceremonies. The miniature jars and bull figurines found could symbolize important Canaanite gods such as El or Baal.

The sanctuary was built with thick mud brick walls and a white chalk top, contrasting with the dark stone around it. Researchers suggest that the site was used for major rituals or series of ceremonies, as indicated by the partially broken pottery found in the favissa. Tel Shimron is mentioned in the Bible as the site of the Israelite conquest, maintaining its uniqueness to this day.