Columbarium towers and other structures in the environs of shivta

This paper presents new evidence of pigeon-breeding in the Negev in the Roman and Byzantine periods. Field research conducted between 2000 and 2004 identified and studied four towers in the environs of Shivta. The towers were constructed for the purpose of raising of pigeons, which provided both meat and fertilizer. Each tower potentially housed 1000-1500 breeding pigeons, with an annual yield of up to 9000 chicks and 15 tons of fertilizer. Other buildings studied in the area were a masonry tomb that was part of Shivtas cemetery and an agricultural watchtower.