The largest archaeological expedition ever sent to the Dead Sea area, 120 archaeologists and students, returned today with a collection of important new findings. These included several strips of papyrus and many copper and clay utensils as well as weapons of the Bar Kochba period.
The expedition, led by Prof. Yigal Yadin, was divided into four groups. The explorers combed hundreds of caves near the Dead Sea where substantial archaeological finds have been made. The area was a refuge for the Jews after the Roman occupation. The Israel Army provided transportation, communications, tent housing and food during the two-week search.
The expedition found that many of the caves had already been searched by Beduins, possibly from Jordan, strengthening a belief that many ancient scrolls sold in Jordan were found on Israel territory.
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