Analysis of the ceramic find shows that all the phases of the site date to

the Byzantine period, apparently from the late 5th century or the early 6th

century CE on. Also the construction with large, well-worked, smoothened

stones, some of them with a protruding boss; the roof tiles, two with typical manufacturers’ signs; and the plaster containing potsherds found in the wine-press – all are characteristic of the Byzantine period in the Hebron mountains.

 

 

The agricultural or industrial complex built in the first construction

phase, in the 5th century CE, included the large structure with the water

cisterns and a well-built wine-pressing installation. In the second construction phase, perhaps with some connection to the graves and in the context of the flourishing Christian settlement in the Hebron mountains, the place became a pilgrimage site. The structure was expanded and the mosaic pavement with the inscription was made, attesting to the sacredness of the site.

 

 

Such places – mainly monastic establishments – were the object of veneration and pilgrimage seemingly connected with biblical stories, as, for example, the Tombs of the Patriarchs at Hebron, the Oak of Mamre, the ‘Ein Sarah site north of Hebron, and the Beit ‘Anun church.

 Possibly, the religious and sacred nature of the Kh. Abu Rish monastery, the mosaic inscription, the church, and the crypt (C7) are related to the tombs in the monastery area.