Area CC
By Sagi Freiman
Area CC is located in the center of the lower hill, northwest to the slope of the mound. It was chosen for excavation based on previous surveys, which identified a large and partly-exposed rock-cut wine press complex (Fig. 1). Due to its size, complexity, and architectural elements the press was dated to the Byzantine period (4th-6th CE). The long-term exposure of the press resulted in the presence of a large quantity of modern refuse and ceramic sherds from various periods.
An excavation in the center of a round central space in the complex—possibly the winepress’s treading floor—unearthed a square stone screw base (Fig. 2). A deep collecting vat and a mosaic-paved settling basin (Fig. 3), both circular, were uncovered to the east of the screw base. Hewn channels ran between the central space and the settling basin, and between the settling pit and the collecting vat. The extent of the complex was probably larger than was previously assumed, as additional installations were identified around it. The plaster coating on various parts of the complex contained Byzantine-period potsherds, verifying the dating of the wine press to this period.
Alongside staff and team members, Area CC was selected to accommodate a community excavation in collaboration with Hevel Modi‘in Regional Council, with the participation of third and fourth graders from schools in Ben-Shemen and Modi‘im-Nehalim elementary schools and families from the nearby communities. Due to its size, preservation, and location, area CC was chosen for a conservation project that will allow visitors and hikers to learn and physically see, more about Byzantine wine presses in general, and the wine press of area CC in particular.
