Biblical Tels - Megiddo, Hazor, Beer Sheba in Israel

Facts and Data

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 2005
Size of heritage: 96 ha
- Buffer zone: 604 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 35,182°
Latitude: 32,597°

Summary

Tels (prehistoric settlement mounds), are characteristic of the flatter lands of the eastern Mediterranean, particularly Lebanon, Syria, Israel and eastern Turkey. Of more than 200 tels in Israel, Megiddo, Hazor and Beer Sheba are representative of those that contain substantial remains of cities with biblical connections. The three tels also present some of the best examples in the Levant of elaborate Iron Age, underground water-collecting systems, created to serve dense urban communities. Their traces of construction over the millennia reflect the existence of centralized authority, prosperous agricultural activity and the control of important trade routes.

Location on Map

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Introduction

The UNESCO World Heritage site of Biblical Tels - Megiddo, Hazor, Beer Sheba is located in Israel, specifically at coordinates N32 35 49.992 E35 10 55.992. This site comprises three ancient cities that played significant roles in biblical history and are of immense archaeological importance. Megiddo, Hazor, and Beer Sheba are all biblical tells, which are mounds formed by the accumulation of layers of ancient settlements over time.

History

Megiddo, also known as Tel Megiddo, is one of the most extensively excavated sites in Israel. It was a strategic city in ancient times, guarding the main pass through the Carmel Ridge. Megiddo is mentioned in the Bible as the site of several important battles and is believed to have been inhabited continuously for over 5,000 years. The city was a significant center of power during the Bronze Age and the Iron Age, serving as a royal city for various rulers.

Hazor, or Tel Hazor, was the largest fortified city in ancient Canaan and is mentioned in the Bible as one of the cities conquered by Joshua. It was a prosperous city during the Bronze Age and Iron Age, with evidence of extensive trade networks. Hazor was destroyed and rebuilt several times throughout its history, and its ruins provide valuable insights into the urban planning and architecture of the time.

Beer Sheba, or Tel Beer Sheba, is located in the Negev Desert and was an important center for trade and agriculture in ancient times. It is mentioned in the Bible as a significant city in the territory of the tribe of Judah. The site contains the remains of a well-preserved water system, including a large underground reservoir, which highlights the ingenuity of ancient water management techniques.

Current State

The Biblical Tels - Megiddo, Hazor, Beer Sheba site is a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. These archaeological sites have been meticulously excavated and preserved, allowing visitors to explore the ancient civilizations that once thrived there.

Megiddo offers a well-organized visitor center, providing information about the site's history and significance. Visitors can explore the remains of the ancient city, including its impressive fortifications, palaces, and water systems. The site also offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, allowing visitors to appreciate the strategic importance of Megiddo.

Hazor, with its extensive ruins, provides a glimpse into the grandeur of an ancient Canaanite city. Visitors can explore the remains of the city's fortifications, temples, and palaces. The site also features a reconstructed Canaanite palace, offering a vivid representation of the city's past splendor.

Beer Sheba, located in the desert, showcases the resilience and resourcefulness of ancient civilizations. Visitors can explore the remains of the city's dwellings, streets, and water system. The site also offers a visitor center with informative displays about the history and archaeology of Beer Sheba.

Overall, the Biblical Tels - Megiddo, Hazor, Beer Sheba site provides a unique opportunity to delve into the biblical past of Israel. These ancient cities offer a wealth of archaeological treasures and insights into the lives of the people who once inhabited them. The site stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the region and its significance in shaping human history.

Videos from the area

Tell (Tel) Megiddo (Armageddon), Israel - Canaanite Gate from 15C BC (Late Bronze - Canaanite)

Published: January 29, 2014
Length: 35:21 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: Zahi Shaked. Israeli tour guide צחי שקד. מורה

Zahi Shaked A tour guide in Israel and his camera zahigo25@walla.com 9726905522 tel סיור עם מורה הדרך ומדריך הטיולים צחי שקד 0546905522 My name is Zahi...

Tell (Tel) Megiddo (Armageddon), Israel - the Sanctified Area. The round altar is the oldest temple.

Published: January 29, 2014
Length: 55:16 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: Zahi Shaked. Israeli tour guide צחי שקד. מורה

Zahi Shaked A tour guide in Israel and his camera zahigo25@walla.com 9726905522 tel סיור עם מורה הדרך ומדריך הטיולים צחי שקד 0546905522 My name is Zahi...