ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the interaction between the changing scientific interpretations of Avdat's archaeology and its social uses, analyzing the extent to which this interaction reflects the formation of inter-group discourse in Israeli society. It focuses on two historical periods: the 1960s, when the archaeological excavations at the site had begun, and the mid-1990s, when significant transformations occurred both in the archaeological study of the site and in its presentation to the general public. Avdat was first excavated in 1958 by Michael Avi-Yonah. Whereas under Avi-Yonah's direction the archaeological excavation focused on the restoration of churches in the city's acropolis, under Israeli Negev's management a complex urban scheme was uncovered. The reorganization of the archaeological site highlights the touristic means used to present the finds as objects of entertainment. The academic interpretations and the public representations of Avdat reflect the changing methods through which Israeli society confronted its dialectic identity as an immigrant or native society.
