House site from time of Jesus found

NAZARETH, Israel, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- Archeologists in the Holy Land say they have uncovered a home in Nazareth, Israel, not seen since the time of Jesus more than 2,000 years ago.

A rock-hewn cistern and pottery shards were found on the dig site, which is part of the construction of the new International Marian Center near the Church of the Annunciation.

The site was built on several times since the time of Jesus, who according to the Bible's New Testament, was conceived by his mother, Mary, in the village of Nazareth and born in Bethlehem 2,009 years ago.

"Until now a number of tombs from the time of Jesus were found in Nazareth; however, no settlement remains have been discovered that are attributed to this period," said Yardenna Alexandre, who led the excavation on behalf of the Israel Antiquities Authority.

The Association of Mary of Nazareth, which is building the Marian Center, plans to preserve the excavation site as part of the center, Alexandre said.