Archaeology in Israel: Ancient Fabrics

A large fabric collection dating back approximately 3,000 years to the era of Kings David and Solomon was unearthed in February 2016. An excavation team from Tel Aviv University uncovered the materials during a dig at the Timna copper mines in the Arava Valley. This was the first ever discovery of textiles from that era, and the fabrics were of of various colors, textures, origins, uses, and styles. The find includes fragments of clothing, tents, bags, ropes, and cords according to the head of the archaeological expedition, Dr. Erez Ben-Yosef of Tel Aviv University. Linen was found in the dig as well, which was not produced locally and was likely imported from Jordan. This speaks to the sophistication of regional trade during the time period.

Source: Wootliff, Raoul. “Where Solomon mined, 3,000-year-old ‘fashion collection’ unearthed,” Times of Israel (February 24, 2016)