The plumbing for a fountain that would have decorated a wealthy Israeli family’s garden in the 10th century has been found intact, proving workmen of the time built pipes to last. It is the first time the plumbing of a decorative fountain from this period has been found almost complete outside the wealthier districts of Old Ramla, shedding light on the ingenious methods used to create water features in elaborate villas at the time. The fountain, which is described as ‘in an excellent state of preservation,’ was unearthed in Ramla, central Israel, and was discovered during preparations for the construction of a bridge as part of a new highway scheme.

Read More: Unearthed: Incredible 10th Century Estate and Fountain with Its Plumbing Still Intact

See also: Remains of a 900 Year Old Estate Discovered by Archaeologists

Remains of an affluent estate that had a fountain in its garden were recently unearthed during the course of excavations in Ramla. Two residential rooms were exposed of a wealthy estate that was built of ashlar stones. Archaeologists date the structure to the Fatimid period (late tenth century and first half of the eleventh century CE).

Read More: Remains of a 900 Year Old Estate Discovered by Archaeologists

See also: Medieval Arab Mansion Unearthed in Ramle

Archaeologists have unearthed a medieval villa in the central Israeli city of Ramle, complete with a water fountain and intact plumbing dating to the 11th century — just before the beginning of the Crusades. The Israel Antiquities Authority announced the find, located on the outskirts of the city, on Sunday [December 8, 2013].

Read More: Medieval Arab Mansion Unearthed in Ramle

A group of Israeli historians and archaeologists is calling for a radical rethink in the way the region’s past is viewed. They want a stronger focus on Palestine’s Islamic eras, which have in the past been neglected in favour of its Jewish history.

Read More: A Sea-change in Attitudes