Archaeologists in northern Israel have uncovered an immense underground hideout comprising narrow tunnels and larger rooms. The hideout was dug by Jewish villagers nearly 2,000 years ago during a revolt against the Roman Empire.

The experts said the labyrinth is evidence that Jewish communities as far north as the hills of the Galilee, where Jesus is believed to have preached, prepared for the Roman legions quashing rebellions closer to Jerusalem.

Yinon Shivtiel, a historian at Zefat Academic College who specializes in caves, said they carved a hideout that winds at least 100 meters (yards) under their village.

Cramped burrows, too tight for an armored legionnaire, run between larger cavities where there is room to stand, gather and store precious goods. The cave system was designed to save entire families.

During the excavation, the team found a bronze ring that would fit a child's finger.

Two ill-fated revolts against the Romans in the Holy Land occurred during that period. The first culminated with the destruction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem in the year 70.

Decades later, famed leader Bar Kokhba led a soundly defeated uprising. Similar hideouts from that time, along with evidence of destroyed villages, have been found in the foothills of Jerusalem.

There were no signs of destruction, Shivtiel said, suggesting the fighting did not reach the area.

Largeness and complexity of the hideout

"We were amazed to see how big this complex is," said Uri Berger of the Israel Antiquities Authority, brandishing a small iron blade that was found buried in the hideout and dates from around the time of Bar Kokhba.

Their work is not done yet, he said.

He said there are still more burrows to be cleared from the dirt and, perhaps, more artifacts that offer a glimpse into life in the Holy Land 2,000 years ago.

-Source: JPost