Gold Cache Discovered at Crusader fortress of Apollonia

An excavation at the 13th century Crusader fortress of Apollonia, situated along the central coast of Israe, approximately 4 miles north of Tel Aviv, has uncovered another gold treasure trove valued at over $100,000. The 400 gram stash of 108 coins was discovered by a team of diggers from Tel Aviv University and the Israel Nature and Parks Authority. Apollonia is one of the largest Crusader fortresses and was built sometime between 1241 and 2165.

The treasure was found inside a broken vessel hidden under a tile in one of the castle's rooms. Hundreds of arrow heads and catapult stones were discovered and a nearby landfill imported Italian shards of rare glass untensils were dug up.

Apollonia was an important Crusader stronghold once ruled by the Christian order of the Knights Hospitaller and eventually captured by the Mamluks in 1265. Researches believe the treasure was buried there during the Mamluk siege. The impressive fortress lies overlooking the Meditteranean Sea and is surrounded by a wide moat.

Sidebar:

Apollonia National Park is located just north of Herzliya Pituach, approximately four miles north of Tel Aviv. The site is highly recommended for those interested in general history, Crusader history and engineering.

The national park is opened as follows:

April-September 8 A.M.-5 P.M.
October-March 8 A.M- 4 P.M.
Fridays and holiday eves site closes one hour earlier than above.

Adults 21 shekel, children 9 shekel.

Last entry one hour before above closing hour

For more information:  Visit the Israel National Parks Authority website. For private tours to Apollonia contact Travelujah