Manot Cave

Ancient Turtle Carving Suggests 35,000-Year-Old Worship

The discovery of a carved turtle sculpture deep within Manot Cave in Galilee is sparking considerable intrigue among archaeologists. This intricately carved turtle, fashioned from a dolomite boulder, wasn’t just casually placed; it resided prominently in a niche within a large cavern far removed from the cave’s entrance, an area seemingly dedicated to ritualistic activities. The sheer age of this artifact—estimated to be 35,000 years old—pushes back the potential timeline of turtle veneration significantly, predating Christianity by a staggering number of millennia.

This remote location within the cave, characterized by a lofty chamber with excellent acoustics, suggests a deliberate choice of setting.… Continue reading