Israeli archaeologists have discovered a paved road near Jerusalem, dating back nearly 1,900 years to the Roman era.

The road was up to 6 meters wide and about 1.5 kilometers long, the Israeli Antiquities Authority said on Tuesday.

The head of the excavation, Irina Zilberbod, said the road was built between the years 130 and 135 AD.

The road "was apparently meant to link the Roman settlement that existed in the vicinity of Beit Natif with the main highway known as the 'Emperor's Road,'" which connected local settlements to Jerusalem, Zilberbod said.

Between the paving stones, researchers found coins dating from the years 67 and 41 AD, among others.

Until 2,000 years ago, most roads were improvised paths. The Romans introduced paved roads not only to help with military deployments but also the transport of agricultural produce.

The ancient road, which was first discovered in February, may eventually be opened to the public.