Lost ‘dance floor of death’ discovered where John the Baptist was sentenced to death by Herod’s son
A 'DANCE FLOOR of death' where John the Baptist is thought to have been sentenced to a deadly punishment has been discovered, archaeologists claim.
The experts think they've found the spot which the Bible claims is where King Herod's son sentenced the Jewish preacher to death.
Ancient Roman historian Flavius Josephus also wrote about the event which is said to have happened in the year 29 AD.
King Herod Antipas, a song of the King Herod mentioned in the Nativity, is said to have decided on John the Baptist's execution at Machaerus fort in modern-day Jordan.
Some texts suggest John was beheaded over fears he could start a rebellion.
However, the Bible says John was killed because he disapproved of a marriage between divorced Herod Antipas and a divorced woman called Herodias.
However, not all scholars are convinced that the evidence of a newly suggested throne area is strong enough.
Research will continue at the site.
Who was John the Baptist?
Here's some interesting facts...
John the Baptist is known as a Jewish preacher from the 1st century AD.
The Bible states that he baptised Jesus in the Jordan River.
He is regarded as a prophet in several religions including Christianity and Islam.
According to the Bible's New Testament, John the Baptist and Jesus were relatives and some people believe they were cousins.
In other archaeology news, the UK's biggest-ever hoard of Celtic gold coins, worth £800,000, was unearthed by a birdwatcher.
Early humans may have hibernated just like bears to try and survive harsh winters.
And, a mummified wolf pup dating back 57,000 years has been unearthed in Canada with its fur and teeth still intact.
What do you make of this suspected John the Baptist discovery? Let us know in the comments...
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