Israeli archaeologists have uncovered what may be the world’s oldest known nursing home, following the discovery of a rare Greek inscription in the ruins of the ancient city of Hippos (Sussita), overlooking the Sea of Galilee.

The colorful mosaic, dating to the late fourth or early fifth century CE, was found at the entrance to a public building during recent excavations at Hippos National Park by archaeologists from the University of Haifa. At its center, the mosaic bears the words “Peace be with the elders,” an inscription that researchers say likely points to the existence of a Byzantine-era institution specifically dedicated to the care of elderly residents.

“This is living proof that care and concern for the elderly are not just a modern idea, but were part of social institutions and concepts as far back as about 1,600 years ago,” said Dr. Michael Eisenberg of the Zinman Institute of Archaeology at the University of Haifa, the excavation’s co-director.