JERUSALEM, Sept. 2 (Xinhua) -- Israeli archaeologists have uncovered an agricultural estate about 1,600 years old, the Israel Antiquities Authority said in a statement on Tuesday.

The ancient estate, found in Kafr Qasim in central Israel, includes colorful mosaic floors, ritual baths, and an olive oil press.

It was located at an archaeological site where an important Samaritan settlement thrived for about 400 years, from the late Roman period to the end of the Byzantine era.

Historical sources describe the site as the birthplace of Menander, a Samaritan magician and successor to Simon Magus, who was regarded as the father of Gnostic sects and one of Christianity's earliest converts.

The archaeologists noted that the size and design of the buildings, the rich mosaic floors, and the agricultural facilities all reflect the great wealth of the Samaritan community that inhabited the area.

One building contained a mosaic decorated with a geometric pattern and plant designs. Its central medallion was framed by acanthus leaves and surrounded by images of grapes, dates, watermelons, artichokes, and asparagus.

In the northern part of the estate, the team found an olive press, a warehouse, and a purification bath. According to the team, the bath's location near the press suggests olive oil was produced in ritual purity. The press was carefully designed with screw presses and a crushing basin.

Over time, the estate changed, with luxurious buildings giving way to agricultural production. Some mosaic floors were damaged, and architectural elements were reused in new walls.

Despite the turmoil of the Samaritan revolts against Byzantine rulers, the estate continued to function and even preserved its Samaritan identity, as shown by oil lamps uncovered in the excavation, the team said. ■