Israel: First Jesus-Era House Found in Nazareth

Israeli archaeologists say they have uncovered remains of the first dwelling in Nazareth that can be dated back to the time of Jesus.

They say the find sheds a new light on what Nazareth might have been like in Jesus' time — probably a small hamlet with about 50 houses populated by poor Jews.

Archaeologist Yardena Alexandre of the Israel Antiquities Authority says remains of a wall, a hideout and a cistern were found after builders dug up an old convent courtyard in the northern Israeli city.

Alexandre told reporters on Monday that archeologists also found clay and chalk vessels used by Galilean Jews of the time — an indication the home belonged to a "simple Jewish family."

She says it's likely Jesus and his childhood friends would have known the house.