A team of Israeli archaeologists have discovered the largest underground quarry in the Holy Land near the West Bank city of Jericho.

Haifa University Professor Adam Zertal says the 4,000 square metre cavern, which was buried about 10 metres under the desert, was dug about 2,000 years ago and was used for about 500 years. The Haifa team believes the stone was quarried to build houses and churches in the region.

The main hall of the cavern, which is supported by 20 stone pillars, has a numerous symbols etched onto the walls, including crosses, Roman numerals, Roman legion pennants as well as Zodiac-type symbols. Professor Zertal says the quarry is an important find and could become "a fantastic tourist site."