Josephus and the Archaeology of Galilee

This chapter presents an updated picture of the settlement in first-century Galilee. The many archaeological finds that have been discovered in the region in recent years allow us to define more accurately the nature of the Jewish settlement there while enriching our understanding of various dimensions, such as architecture, wares and objects in daily use, burial, and art. The chapter focuses on the material culture, but the conclusions drawn from it have many implications. It presents the installations and objects that were used exclusively by the Jews in the late Second Temple period and then discusses the finds attesting foreign influences on the local culture. The chapter also examines the nature of the Jewish population, its lifestyle, customs, and cultural behavior in first-century C.E. Galilee.