Interview with archaeologist Dr. Norma Franklin of the University of Haifa. Archaeologist Dr. Norma Franklin speaks with Eve Harow about the capital of the Omride dynasty of the Israelite kingdom, Shomron, known as Sebastiya from the time of King Herod. This incredibly important ancient site has been all but abandoned by the authorities and even turned into a ‘Palestinian Heritage’ site with Belgian funding. Midreshet HaShomron (www.tourshomron.org.il/en/tag/attractions/) is now organizing weekly trips to the area to familiarize Israelis (for now) with the antiquities and the historical, Biblical, economic and strategic importance of the Tel. Dr. Franklin discusses some of the finds, the research over the past century, the Christian connection and the challenges in maintaining the balance needed to keep the irreplaceable remains safe for future digs.
