Ḥof Shiqma; Tell esh-Shuqaf - Church
Church Name, type, function
Site Name:
Ḥof Shiqma; Tell esh-Shuqaf
Church name:
Church
Functional Type:
Unknown
Dedication:
St. John
Church type:
Basilical
Location
Coordinates, ITM system:
10,185.00
11,145.00
Coordinates, ICS system:
15,185.00
61,145.00
Geographical region:
Gaza strip
Topographical location:
Near the NW tip of Gaza Strip, on a small mound overlooking the seashore.
Bishopric:
Gaza
Source of knowledge
Epigraphy:
Archaeological remains
Surveyed site
Surveyors:
| Name | Date |
|---|---|
Berman et. alii | 1972-73 |
Excavated site
Excavators:
| Name | Date |
|---|---|
Huster | 1999 |
General description
State of preservation/which parts were uncovered:
A mosaic pavement ascribed to a basilical church (25x13m), holding three Greek inscription. The single published inscription holds 11 lines within a medalion. The construction of the church, by two patricians, dedicated to St. John, is dated to July 2, 544 CE. The laying of the mosaic pavement is dated to 550 CE. This section of the floor is attributed to the narhex. The eastern part of the church, located under a military post of IDF, could not be exposed.
Description
Illustrative material:
Narthex:
Mosaic paved. Holding a Greek inscription within a medallion.
Small finds
Small finds illustrative material:
Detailed description
Structure
Narthex:
Yes
Architectural Evolution
| General outline | Dating material | Phase no. | Century | Within century |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Mosaic paved narthex of a basilical church. | Dated inscription: July 2, 544 - church erection; 550 - laying of the mosaic floor. | Phase 1 | 6th c. | Mid |
Abandonment | Unknown |