JERUSALEM, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Altogether two Roman stone busts, dating back to the 3rd-4th century, were discovered in the ancient city of Beit She'an, said a report Sunday by the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA).

The busts were found by a resident of the area who were hiking near the ancient city in northern Israel.

She noticed the top of one of the busts, and called the inspectors of the IAA's Theft Preventing Unit to uncover the whole bust. During the digging, another Roman bust appeared next to it.

The busts were completely exposed and transferred to the IAA's laboratories to avoid theft and for preservation.

The busts were made of local limestone, showing unique facial features, clothing and hairstyles. One of the statues probably bears the figure of a bearded man.

Such busts were usually placed nearby or inside burial caves, and represent the deceased in general terms.

The busts were probably exposed because of the recent heavy rainfall in the area, and it is estimated other historic findings will soon be revealed.