A unique oil lamp, used by Roman soldiers about 1,600 years ago, has been uncovered in the Negev desert in southern Israel, the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) said in a statement on Wednesday.

The IAA stated that the lamp provided light during nights for soldiers stationed at the late Roman fort Mezad Tzafir on the Scorpions Ascent pass in the eastern Negev.

The artifact was discovered at the ancient fort by a 16-year-old student during a class trip along the ascent, situated on a major ancient trade route where copper, and probably gold, were transported.

IAA archaeologists explained that Mezad Tzafir was one of several forts built by the Romans in the area to safeguard shipments originating from mines in the Arava Valley, east of the Negev, and this protection included mounted patrols.

They added that the oil lamp, found partially intact, was produced in the ancient city of Petra, Jordan, adding that an identical lamp had been unearthed in the same location 90 years ago. 

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