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This image of the Communal Winepress at Shivta includes the square stomping area (above), the channel through the wall through which the grape juice flows, and the two vats (previously plastered) that collected the grape juice. The juice was removed from the large vats, placed into containers, and then stored for fermentation and preservation.
Contrary to previous opinions, the agricultural systems, that fed winepresses such as this, instead of dating to the Nabatean Period, actually were built during the Byzantine Period—beginning in the fifth century AD and continuing in use until the late seventh or early eighth century AD.
Please also note the barren surrounding countryside. This area only receives 3.5 in. of rain per year. This picture was taken in July—the middle of the dry season in Israel.
