This summer Professors James D. Tabor and Shimon Gibson will direct a two-week archaeological expedition (June 10-25) at the historic location of Kibbutz Tzuba, an ancient Israelite town just west of the city of Jerusalem. In the year 2000 a mysterious cave was discovered there by Professor Gibson who invited Professor Tabor and a group of UNC Charlotte students to join him in initial excavations (2001-2005). This cave, now known as the "Cave of John the Baptist," turned out to have direct associations with John the Baptist, who grew up in the nearby town of Ein Kerem, providing us with our earliest evidence of baptismal rites. Cryptic drawings of John the Baptist and his life and work are carved on its walls. Nearby is the first ancient winepress dating to the time of Jesus that has ever been found in Israel. 

The two week expedition will involve further excavations at the Cave of John the Baptist as well as uncovering the winepress and its adjacent caves. Both are located on the agricultural land of Kibbutz Tzuba, a strikingly beautiful area outside Jerusalem. Participants will stay on the Kibbutz in the hotel guesthouse with room and board included. This two week experience is run as a field school with classes, lectures, and tools provided. No prior archaeological experience is required. A weekend tour, guided by Professor Tabor, of Jerusalem and the Dead Sea, including Qumran where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found as well as Masada, is included. Full information on costs, dates, and registration is at: http://www.edabroad.uncc.edu/tzuba/ 

Please direct any questions to Dr. James D. Tabor at jdtabor@uncc.edu