Israeli archaeologists have announced the discovery of a 1,500-year-old church, complete with a remarkably well-preserved mosaic floor with images of lions, foxes, fish and peacocks.
A spokesperson for the Israel Antiquities Authority, Amir Ganor, said the church located in the hills south-west of Jerusalem was active as a faith community between the fifth and seventh centuries.
Archaeologists only began digging around the site after noticing thieves plundering it.
Mr Ganor said archaeologists were thrilled to discover a mosaic "unique in its craftsmanship and level of preservation".
Experts initially believed the discover was a synagogue, but after further investigation concluded it was a Byzantine church.
Journalists were allowed a brief viewing of the mosaic before it was recovered until funding becomes available for its proper preservation.