During November 2003 a trial excavation was conducted at Horbat Kenes in Karmi’el (Permit No. A-4035*; map ref. NIG 22780–5/75801–2; OIG 17780–5/25801–2), in the wake of constructing a sports ground. The excavation, on behalf of the Antiquities Authority and financed by the Karmi’el Municipality, was directed by L. Porat, assisted by A. Shapiro (surveying and drafting).
Two squares, one c. 3 m north of the church excavated in 1993 (ESI 15:25–27) and the other c. 20 northwest of it, were opened. Rock-hewn foundations and mosaic floors were mostly all that remained of the church. Bedrock was exposed 0.1–0.3 m below surface in both squares and no building remains were discovered. Several tesserae, a marble fragment and a few potsherds dating to the Byzantine period were collected. In addition to the excavation, bedrock was exposed in an area slated for construction, revealing no ancient remains; hence, it appears that the church was an isolated structure in the area.