The Mushroom Site in Timna is a unique archaeological site that combines natural formations with evidence of ancient mining activity. The site is named after a prominent mushroom-shaped sandstone pillar, created by natural weathering processes. Around it, archaeological remains were found indicating copper mining from various periods, mainly from the Bronze and Iron Ages. Archaeological excavations carried out at the site revealed ancient quarries, mining tools, as well as evidence of smelting activity that took place nearby.
Dr. Avishai Teicher Pikiwiki Israel, CC BY 2.5 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.5, via Wikimedia Commons
The archaeological findings indicate that the area was part of a large-scale mining system that operated in the Timna Valley. Carbon-14 and ceramic findings allow us to date the use of the site to the Early and Middle Bronze Ages, as well as the Iron Age, when the area was under the control of Pharaonic Egypt. Signs of mining and quarrying in the rock formations indicate ancient techniques used to extract copper ore, which strengthens the insight into the scope and complexity of metallurgical activity in Timna throughout the generations.
Dr. Avishai Teicher Pikiwiki Israel, CC BY 2.5 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.5, via Wikimedia Commons