Byzantine-Era Gold Hoard Unearthed Near Sea of Galilee

🏺 Byzantine-Era Gold Hoard Unearthed Near Sea of Galilee

Archaeologists excavating the ancient city of Hippos (also known as Sussita), located on the slopes of the Golan Heights near the Sea of Galilee, have uncovered a remarkable treasure: a nearly 1,400-year-old hoard of gold coins and jewelry dating back to the Byzantine era. The discovery, made in July by metal detectorist Edie Lipsman, includes 97 pure gold coins and dozens of ornate jewelry pieces, such as earrings inlaid with pearls, semi-precious stones, and glass.

📜 Historical Significance and Rarity

Michael Eisenberg, co-director of the excavation and archaeologist at the University of Haifa, described the find as one of the five largest gold hoards from that period ever discovered in the region. What sets this hoard apart is the combination of coins and jewelry, which adds depth to its numismatic and historical value. It is the first such treasure found in Hippos, a city that played a significant role in the region’s Byzantine history.

The coins span the reigns of several Byzantine emperors, from Justin I (518–527) to the early years of Heraclius (610–613), although Heraclius ruled until 641. Some coins still bore remnants of fabric, suggesting they had once been wrapped in cloth. The collection includes solidi (high-value gold coins), semisses (worth half a solidus), and tremisses (worth a third of a solidus). One tremissis stands out for its rarity—it was likely minted in Cyprus in 610 by Heraclius the Elder and his son during their revolt against Emperor Phocas. The younger Heraclius eventually triumphed, founding the Heraclian dynasty that ruled until 711.

💎 Jewelry and Craftsmanship

The jewelry pieces, intricately designed and adorned with pearls and stones, offer a glimpse into the craftsmanship and aesthetic sensibilities of the Byzantine elite. Their pristine condition, despite being nearly 1,400 years old, astonished the excavation team. Eisenberg noted the surreal experience of uncovering such well-preserved artifacts from a distant past.

🔍 Political Turmoil and Hidden Wealth

The hoard’s burial likely coincided with a period of intense upheaval in the region. In 614, the Sasanian Empire—comprising parts of modern-day Iran, the Middle East, and Central Asia—invaded Byzantine Palestine. As foreign armies advanced, residents of Christian cities like Hippos hid their valuables to protect them from looting. This pattern of emergency hoarding was common during the early 7th century, a time marked by frequent invasions and shifting control.

Jerusalem fell during the 614 Sasanian assault but was reclaimed by the Byzantines around 629. However, in 636, Muslim armies retook the region, leading to further instability. Hippos, once a thriving city, began to decline and was ultimately abandoned after a devastating earthquake struck Galilee in 749.

Danny Syon, the excavation’s numismatist, emphasized the hoard’s importance in understanding the political and economic landscape of the time. The coins and jewelry not only reflect the wealth of Hippos’ residents but also serve as tangible evidence of the fear and uncertainty that gripped the region during successive conquests.

🔬 Next Steps and Museum Interest

The research team plans to conduct a thorough analysis of the hoard, including detailed readings of the coins and documentation of the jewelry. This will help place the find within a broader regional and historical context. While it’s too early to confirm when the treasure will be publicly displayed, Eisenberg anticipates that museums will soon express interest in showcasing the artifacts.

This extraordinary discovery enriches our understanding of Byzantine life, trade, and resilience in the face of conflict. It also highlights the enduring allure of archaeology—where a single find can illuminate centuries of history buried beneath the soil.

Gold Spot Price Today - October 8, 2025

 $4,056.30 USD

 

Psyllium Benefits for Digestive Health: Your Ultimate Guide to Improved Gut Wellness

Updated on February 9, 2025

John R Wilsdon 

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As a former USN Hospital Corpsman, John draws from many years of experience in surgery and general sick bay treatment.

Psyllium husk

A Brief History of Psyllium

Psyllium, derived from the seeds of the Plantago ovata plant, has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. The plant itself is native to regions in Asia, particularly India, and the seeds are known for their high fiber content. Ancient civilizations, including those in the Middle East and the Mediterranean, recognized the therapeutic properties of psyllium seeds. Historically, psyllium has been utilized for its laxative effects, aiding in digestion and overall gut health.

The use of psyllium expanded as trade routes opened, and its benefits became known worldwide. In modern times, psyllium is recognized not only for its traditional uses but also for its broader applications in promoting digestive health, managing chronic conditions, and supporting overall wellness.

From Husk to Powder

The raw psyllium seeds go through a mechanical makeover in a no-nonsense cleaning process that efficiently removes all those pesky impurities and debris, ensuring they are spotless. Next, it’s off to the de-husking station, where those seeds get their husks removed by milling machines that are basically professional seed crushers. The husks don’t stand a chance. They fragment and separate, leaving our seeds de-husked and fancy-free.

Once the husks are free, they get the celebrity treatment—they’re purified using gravity separators and winnowing processes to ensure only the finest husks remain. No riffraff allowed. But the party’s not over. To keep things pristine, the husks get a thorough fumigation to kick any lingering pests or contaminants to the curb. Quality and safety are key, after all.

Then it’s on to the sterilization spa, where the husks are pampered with ethylene oxide, methyl bromide, or gamma irradiation treatments, ensuring they are squeaky clean and microorganism-free. Finally, the husks are ready for their final transformation. They are ground into a fine powder using specialized milling equipment. This powder, now the epitome of purity and cleanliness, gets carefully packaged in pristine conditions to maintain its quality and safeguard it from any contamination during storage and transport. Voilà—psyllium perfection!

Uses of Psyllium Powder

Psyllium powder is widely used today due to its versatility and numerous health benefits. Here are some common uses:

1. Digestive Health: Psyllium is most renowned for its ability to promote healthy digestion. It acts as a bulk-forming laxative, absorbing water in the intestines to create a gel-like substance. This helps to soften stools, making them easier to pass and preventing constipation.

2. Weight Management: By promoting a feeling of fullness, psyllium can aid in weight management. When taken before meals, it can help reduce appetite and decrease overall calorie intake.

3. Blood Sugar Control: Psyllium can help stabilize blood sugar levels by slowing the absorption of sugar in the intestines. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition.

4. Cholesterol Reduction: Regular consumption of psyllium has been shown to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. The soluble fiber in psyllium binds to cholesterol in the digestive system and helps remove it from the body.

5. Heart Health: By improving cholesterol levels and aiding in weight management, psyllium contributes to overall heart health. It helps maintain a healthy cardiovascular system and reduces the risk of heart disease.

6. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Psyllium can help manage symptoms of IBS by regulating bowel movements and improving overall gut health.

7. Skin Health: While not as commonly known, psyllium can also be used in skincare. Its anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis when applied topically.

How long does it take for psyllium powder to make you feel full?

About fiber so minutes!

The Plantago ovata plant, source of psyllium powder.

One notable result from the use of psyllium is that it may, by promoting regularity, keep diverticula from getting larger.

Ayurvedic Connection

Psyllium husk has been used for centuries, dating back to ancient times. It was traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine (an ancient Indian system of medicine) to treat digestive issues like constipation and diarrhea.

In the 16th century, European folk medicine also recognized psyllium husk as a remedy for constipation. It entered Western culture more prominently when Metamucil, a popular fiber supplement containing psyllium husk, was introduced in the United States in 1934.

Why did the doctor prescribe a rounded teaspoon of medicine to the mathematician?

Because they couldn't measure accurately, but they were well-rounded!

Mixing Psyllium Powder for Use

I mix a rounded teaspoon of psyllium powder in an 8-ounce cup of water. Most containers say to use 1 to 3 times a day. You should consult a doctor before you dose.

The flavor is bland, but not bad. I have found that mixing a small amount of a Great Value Electrolyte Vitamin Enhanced Strawberry Kiwi Drink mix stick turns the blend into a pleasing drink. You will have to experiment to find out how much (but not much) is required to meet your taste. At 6 sticks per pack, it lasts quite a while.

Of course, read the directions on your powder package.

A Cautionary Note

While psyllium powder is often a hero in the world of fiber supplements, it’s not without its potential pitfalls. Some people might experience severe allergic reactions, which can include a rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing, and throat tightness. Think of it as a highly unwanted surprise party. If you encounter any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate—seek medical help immediately.

In rare cases, psyllium can cause gastrointestinal blockages, such as esophageal impaction or bezoars (those indigestible masses that sound like something out of a medieval tale). These blockages can lead to severe stomach pain, constipation, and rectal bleeding. So, if your tummy's throwing a tantrum, it’s best to consult a doctor.

Then there’s the potential issue of difficulty swallowing—psyllium can swell in your throat if not taken with enough liquid, turning your drink into an uninvited guest at your throat’s party and potentially causing choking or trouble swallowing.

Some individuals may develop hypersensitivity from inhaling the fine dust particles of psyllium powder, especially in pharmaceutical manufacturing settings. It's crucial to follow the recommended dosage and mix instructions to avoid any dramatic dust explosions.

And remember, self-care with psyllium should always come with a disclaimer: let your physician know you're using it. That way, you and your fiber can continue to live happily ever after!

 

Sources

Lefton, Jennifer, MS, RD/N (September 8, 2024). The Health Benefits of Psyllium Husk Powder. Retrieved from Psyllium Husk Powder: Benefits, Side Effects, Dosage

Staughton, John BASc, BFA (July 3, 2020). 8 Surprising Benefits of Psyllium. Retrieved from 8 Surprising Benefits of Psyllium | Organic Facts

Hills, Jenny Nutritionist and Medical Writer (August 20, 2018). Scientifically Proven Benefits of Psyllium (Husk, Powder, and Capsules. Retrieved from Scientifically Proven Benefits of Psyllium (Husk, Powder, and Capsules)

Wikipedia (November 7,2024). Psyllium. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psylliu

11 Legendary Gold Hotspots in Arizona: Where to Strike It Rich

I found this article very informative - it details 11 of the richest gold mining locations in Arizona. It includes basic maps of Cattail Cove State Park, Vulture City Ghost Town, Little San Domingo Wash, Oatman, Gold Basin, Greaterville, Lynx Creek, Bradshaw Mountains, Quartzite, Superstition Mountains, and Cloride.

See https://howtofindgoldnuggets.com/11-richest-gold-mining-locations-arizona/

Yard Work Turns to Fortune: A Vermont Woman’s Unexpected Treasure

 Report on May 27, 2025 

Gold Beneath the Grass: A Mysterious Chest Found in Vermont

This New England town is not short of talk these days. Buried treasure including old coins and antiques have been found in St.Albans, Vermont. Taking care of vegetation in Taylor Park seemed so every day for Kelly Wakefield. That she was startled by her find would be an understatement.

Kelly had been reading the book "Lady Liberty's Treasure Hunt." The book gives clues to the reader about hidden treasure in the Northeast. In spring, as she worked in the park, she dug up a skull that displayed a skull and crossbones. On a stone was a code that was just like one seen in her book. This accounted for her continued digging for treasure.

Wakefield found herself near a shrub.  Low and behold, she found silver and gold coins. In addition, there were antiques and collectables. The number of coins could have filled a small chest. I recall the time, as a boy, that I found two military buttons near a park in the Arizona desert. One was bronze with 4 holes - a coat button with U.S. embossed. The other was a bronze general service button with eagle. I was so excited; so, imagine Wakefield's excitement. The treasure included a Civil War-era bullet, referencing the infamous 1864 raid of St. Albans by Confederate soldiers who snuck in through Canada.

Other treasure chests are suggested to be in New England. Although waiting to be dug, searching for treasure is a family activity that rewards by doing road trips. Our country is a treasure, but seeing the outdoors and imbibing the history goes a long way to a satisfying treasure adventure. And beyond that, think of all the places you have visited prior to having an interest in treasure. Are some of those places candidates for exploration?

As far as St. Albans is concerned; there is a museum and a Wednesday evening summer concert series in Taylor Park starting in June. Wakefield has placed her treasure in a safety-deposit box. She is contemplating an appraisal, especially if it can supplement a retirement fund. She went on to say the treasure discovery was a "fun thing," and it inspired her to keep exploring the Northeast and its history.

Courtesy of Pixabay

Casual Walk, Historic Find: Woman Discovers Priceless Medieval Coins in Countryside

 During a leisurely walk through the scenic Kutnohorsk Region in the Czech Republic, an unsuspecting woman stumbled upon a remarkable treasure—a hidden stash of over 2,150 medieval silver coins dating back nearly 900 years. Once carefully stored in a ceramic pot, the coins had remained untouched since the turbulent early 12th century, safeguarding a piece of history from a time of political upheaval. Although the pot itself had deteriorated, the coins were a preserved relic, offering a glimpse into the lives and events of a bygone era. Experts from the Institute of Archaeology of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic and the Czech Silver Museum in Kutná Hora are now working to analyze and restore this astonishing find. Their goal is to uncover the secrets of the coins' origins, composition, and historical significance.

Archaeologist Filip Velímský hailed the discovery as one of the most exciting finds in recent years, likening it to striking a jackpot—but with a poignant twist. “Placed during the first quarter of the 12th century, at a time of internal political instability, these coins tell a story of power struggles and survival,” Velímský explained. Disputes among members of the Přemysl dynasty over the princely throne of Prague had made the region a volatile battleground, where treasures were hidden and lost amidst chaos. The wealth represented by the coin collection was extraordinary for its time, unimaginable for an ordinary person to possess. Velímský speculated that the coins could have served as soldiers' wages or "war booty" during the dynastic conflicts that defined the area. Preliminary studies reveal that the coins were minted under the reigns of King Vratislav II and princes Břetislav II and Bořivoj II, spanning several decades of Přemysl rule. Crafted primarily from silver alloyed with copper, lead, and traces of other metals, the coins are believed to have originated from the Prague mint. Researchers hope to trace the source of the silver to better understand the trade networks and economic practices of medieval Bohemia.

The museum staff now faces the meticulous task of cleaning, restoring, and cataloging each coin, employing advanced techniques like X-ray imaging and spectral analysis. The final goal is to display the collection publicly in 2025, sharing this captivating piece of Czech history with the world. While the original owner of this treasure remains a mystery, the discovery continues to illuminate the complex and storied past of the Czech Republic, inviting us to imagine the lives of those who once held these coins in their hands.

An Ancient Treasure Discovered off of Egypt's Coast Dazzles Archaeologists

 

A sunken temple, a sanctuary in Egypt, was found in 2023 revealing one huge treasure. Artifacts discovered in the temple include gold objects and jewelry. A spectacular pillar made of lapis lazuli was found in a canal off the coast. Overflowing with treasure, this underwater discovery is astonishing.

Collapsing halfway through the second century B.C., the temple was dedicated to Amun, an Egyptian god. Pharaohs traveled to this place of distinction to be given the title of "universal king."

Once a port city of Thonis-Heraclaion, this abandoned collapsed building (underwater) 4.3 miles from the current coast of Egypt, was destroyed by the combination of an earthquake and resulting tidal wave. 

Turning into a cauldron of liquified mud, this ancient city sank into the Nile Delta. Archaeologists unearthed silver ritual instruments, and alabaster containers that held perfumes and unguents.

In addition to the above-mentioned treasures, divers discovered preserved wooden structures dating to the fifth century B.C. It was amazing that the wood beams and posts survived this kind of cataclysm. 

Archaeologists found a Greek sanctuary dedicated to Aphrodite, the goddess of love. The sanctuary also contained precious artifacts of bronze and ceramics. Greeks were allowed to trade and settle in the city while the pharaohs ruled, and these very same Greeks were allowed to have their own gods at the temple. The sanctuary also held a cache of Greek weapons

Perhaps Greek mercenaries were there defending this access to Egypt. The access was at the mouth of the Nile's westernmost branch.

The Legendary Whydah Gally: Unveiling the Secrets of History’s Most Famous Pirate Shipwreck

By jjsala - Flickr: DSC_0342, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=22023395

The Whydah Gally was a British ship originally built in 1715 as a slave ship. It was captured by the infamous pirate Captain Samuel "Black Sam" Bellamy in 1717, during the Golden Age of Piracy. Bellamy transformed the Whydah into his flagship, using it to plunder other vessels along the American coast.

Tragically, the Whydah Gally met its end on April 26, 1717, when it was caught in a violent storm off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. The ship sank, taking with it Bellamy, most of his crew, and a vast treasure of gold, silver, and other valuables. Only two crew members survived the wreck.

The shipwreck was discovered in 1984 by underwater explorer Barry Clifford. It remains the only fully authenticated pirate shipwreck ever found. Among the artifacts recovered are cannons, coins, and the ship's bell, which bears the inscription "The Whydah Gally 1716." Excavations are ongoing, and the site continues to yield fascinating historical treasures.

1. The Ship's Origins: The Whydah was named after the West African port of Ouidah (modern-day Benin), where it was originally used for the transatlantic slave trade. It was a state-of-the-art ship for its time, boasting speed and firepower.

2. Captain Bellamy's Leadership: Samuel "Black Sam" Bellamy was a charismatic and democratic pirate captain. He was known for treating his crew well, and his ship operated on pirate codes, where decisions and the distribution of loot were often made collectively. Bellamy earned the nickname "Prince of Pirates" for his charm and fairness.

3. The Treasure: The Whydah Gally was laden with loot from over 50 plundered ships when it sank. The treasure included gold, silver, jewelry, and other valuables, much of which remains buried beneath the sands off Cape Cod.

4. The Discovery: When Barry Clifford discovered the wreck in 1984, it marked a significant moment in maritime archaeology. The site was identified by the ship's bell, inscribed with "The Whydah Gally 1716," which authenticated the find.

5. Ongoing Excavations: The wreck site continues to be explored, with new artifacts regularly unearthed. These include personal items from the crew, navigational tools, and weaponry, providing a glimpse into pirate life in the 18th century.

6. Educational Impact: Many of the recovered artifacts are displayed in museums and traveling exhibitions, such as the Whydah Pirate Museum in West Yarmouth, Massachusetts. These displays allow people to connect with the history of piracy and the transatlantic world.

The Whydah Gally is a treasure trove not just of gold and silver but of history and storytelling.

If you want the whole skinny, go to https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Whydah_Gally

"The Legacy of Legendary Treasure Hunts: From Kit Williams' Masquerade to Forrest Fenn's Epic Chase"

 Crypto millionaire John Collins-Black, a California man, hid more than $2,000,000 in 5 boxes across the United States.

It wasn't the first treasure hunt of its kind. Back in 1979, British author Kit Williams published "Masquerade," a children's book filled with riddles that led readers to a hidden golden rabbit. This prized treasure was found three years later, though reportedly with the aid of insider information.

Fast forward to 1982, and Byron Preiss introduced "The Secret," a quest to discover 12 treasure boxes. Clues were embedded in cryptic verses with lines like, "Thucydides is/North of Xenophon/Take five steps/In the area of his direction." Despite Preiss' passing in 2005, only three of these treasure boxes have been found to date, as reported by the Boston Globe. Several other treasure hunts followed, including one for a golden owl.

Forrest Fenn’s treasure hunt, however, stood out due to its widespread appeal. The hunt offered an estimated prize of $1 million to $2 million, making it an enticing pursuit. Moreover, the accompanying poem made the challenge seem accessible and solvable for everyday individuals, according to Jenny Kile, who runs a website dedicated to tracking such treasure hunts.

Over time, the hunt attracted thousands of hopefuls seeking life-changing fortunes, scouring locations in New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, and Montana. For many, it offered a sense of community and a purpose-driven adventure, especially in places like Yellowstone. Yet for some, it became an obsession.

In a 2021 study, psychology professor Alan King wrote, "Amateur treasure hunting has evolved into a distinctive American subculture, typified by the Fenn chase community." He discovered that most participants found the intellectual or emotional rewards of the chase to be more valuable than the “likely unattainable goal, with its associated risks."

For more on the story, see Crypto millionaire's $2M fortune sparks hunt for hidden treasure

       John Collins-Black - the man who has created a treasure hunt around the United States.

Underwater Archaeologists Uncover Gold and Silver Ritual Treasures in Sunken Egyptian Temple

Tools of the Temple

Underwater archaeologists have made an incredible discovery off the Mediterranean coast of Egypt, where they unearthed a sunken temple, and a sanctuary filled with ancient treasures. The temple, dedicated to the god Amun, partially collapsed during a cataclysmic event in the mid-second century B.C. This temple was of great importance, as pharaohs visited it to receive their titles of power from Amun, the supreme god of the ancient Egyptian pantheon, according to the European Institute for Underwater Archaeology (IEASM).

Located in the ancient port city of Thonis-Heracleion, now submerged and about 4.3 miles (7 kilometers) from Egypt's modern-day coast, the temple was destroyed when a major earthquake and tidal waves caused the land to liquefy and sink into the Nile delta.

During their exploration, archaeologists uncovered a wealth of treasures, including silver ritual instruments, gold jewelry, and alabaster containers once used for perfumes and unguents. Additionally, divers found well-preserved wooden posts and beams dating back to the fifth century B.C.

Franck Goddio, president of IEASM and the French underwater archaeologist leading the excavations, expressed his amazement at the discovery, saying, "It is extremely moving to discover such delicate objects, which survived intact despite the violence and magnitude of the cataclysm."

East of the temple, archaeologists discovered a Greek sanctuary dedicated to Aphrodite, the goddess of love. This sanctuary contained numerous artifacts, including imported bronze and ceramic objects, illustrating that Greeks who traded and settled in the city during the time of the Pharaohs had their own sanctuaries.

The sanctuary also housed a cache of Greek weapons, suggesting that Greek mercenaries were present in the region to defend the access to the Kingdom at the mouth of the Nile's Canopic branch.