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Mitzad Abirim nearby

Near Abirim is Mitzad Abirim, a stone structure dating from the Roman-Byzantine period. The building is square, and remains of hewn, also square stones have been preserved. A short footpath to the site begins at a parking lot before the entrance to Abirim. Its architectural form and materials give the site a clear archaeological focus: the geometric shape of the structure and the workmanship of the stones are immediately recognizable features. From Mitzad Abirim, the view stretches across Western Galilee to the Mediterranean Sea. The site thus brings together two distinct impressions: the architectural character of a historic structure and a sweeping view across the landscape. A description of a challenging hike, published on March 10, 2020, leads from Mitzad Abirim down into the Nahal Kziv Valley and on to Ein Tamir and Montfort Fortress; it ends with a visit to the approximately 900-year-old structure. Check current safety advisories before setting out.

Archaeology in the wider destination of the Northern District

In the wider destination of the Northern District, Tel Hazor is an archaeological site spanning several periods. Tel Hazor preserves significant remains of a city with biblical connections; visits focus on the Upper City. The site includes Solomon’s Gate, a gate with six chambers and two towers dating to the 10th century BCE. The Canaanite palace was used by the kings of Hazor in the 14th and 13th centuries BCE; the Late Bronze Age palace is considered the most elaborate in Israel and one of the most significant in the Levant. The underground water collection system is a sophisticated engineering achievement for water storage, adapted to the geography. Steps three meters wide are cut into the walls of the vertical shaft. The excavated shaft is 45 meters deep. The fortifications are also considered the finest example of their kind in the area from southern Turkey to the northern Negev. Thus, structures representing gate and palace architecture stand alongside a technical solution for water storage; the site’s themes range from rulership to infrastructure.

Tel Megiddo is one of three tells that preserve significant remains of cities with biblical connections and are closely associated with events in the Bible. The Early Bronze Age temple complex is exceptional for the number of its temples, the continuity of worship, and the documented ritual activities. The orthogonal city plan from the Iron Age has few parallels in the Levant. Here, orthogonal refers to an urban layout arranged at right angles. In comparison, the focus shifts from Tel Hazor’s palace, fortifications, and waterworks to Tel Megiddo’s history of worship and urban planning. This makes it possible to tailor the cultural and historical selection to your interests: early temple rituals and urban structure at Megiddo, or royal palace use and a water system at Hazor.

Discover more destinations: Amirim, Alonei Abba, Kfar Baruch, Elkosh, Kfar Shamai, Mikhmanim, Eli Ad, Evron.

Go to the wider travel overview: Israel.