Perre was known as the Holy City and it can be found mentioned many times in the Bible. It had great religious and political importance in the past.
In ancient Roman sources many caravans, passengers and armies would rest in this area drawn to the beauty of its water. Even today The Roman Fountain is still in use.
Sadly, the ancient city lost its importance after the Byzantine Period and was never to regain it. Today there is an ancient city remaining there which has huge historical importance. The outlines of the village and rock tombs that have been carved into the rocks, can still be seen. Large mosaics found in the city depict heart motifs, 3D globe figures and octagonal geometric shapes.
Excavations of this area started in 2001 and many wonderful structures have been unearthed. Huge blocks of stones, a bakery structure, water channels and a fountain are amongst some of this year's finds. But most interesting to archeologists was the discovery of a 1,600-year-old weaving shed. Work was being carried out on the Necropolis side of Perre when they found evidence of weight stones which were used to help turn wool into rope as well as vessels used to dye fabric.
As with all archeological digs, work inevitably slows down during winter months but in the 1,000 square metres already excavated they’ve identified residential and civil buildings. Based on the condition of these finds it is estimated that earthquakes that occurred from the 6th to 7th century, took a heavy toll on the ancient city.