I love archaeology, and love having the chance to share my passion with others. But as my teacher and later colleague Professor Anson Rainey use to say: “archaeology is the science of digging a hole and spinning a tale about it.” One example of a change in the interpretation of finds follows.
Temple to Augustus or ???
Years ago the above structure was interpreted as possibly the Temple to the Roman Emperor August that Josephus mentions as being by the harbor at Caesarea Maritima.
But now, a Nymphaeum (monumental fountain), not a Temple.
Today, the structure is interpreted as being a monumental fountain that is located at the northwestern corner of the podium on which the Temple to Augustus stood.
Thus, as research continues, the interpretation, and dating of finds can change: think at Timna—Solomon’s Mines, Not Solomon’s Mines, and now, Solomon’s Mines. Hmm.
For an article on the projected “visitor upgrades” at Caesarea Maritima see Here.
