The Be’er Shema mosaic, named after the nearby archaeological site of Birsama, dates back to the Byzantine period (roughly 324–638 CE). It features 55 decorative circles, or medallions, filled with detailed images of hunting scenes, animals, mythological figures, baskets of fruit, and everyday life in the ancient world. Made with tiny colored stones, glass, and pottery pieces, the mosaic demonstrates remarkable craftsmanship.

“This is a unique mosaic from the Byzantine period,” said Shaike Lender, one of the archaeologists who excavated the site. “It shows 55 richly detailed medallions with mythological characters, baskets of fruit, exotic animals, hunting scenes, and more. The mosaic was clearly made by a highly skilled artist.”

Since the mosaic’s discovery in 1990 near Kibbutz Urim, close to the Gaza Strip, exposure to the elements and farming activity caused its condition to worsen. To protect the cultural treasure, conservation experts carefully restored and stabilized the mosaic before moving it to a protected location inside the Merhavim Regional Council compound. It underwent extensive preservation work in a collaboration between the Israel Antiquities Authority and the Israeli Ministry of Heritage.