Empire 291. Ancient Gaza: The Philistines (Part 1)
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Sep 17, 2025 Josephine Quinn, a Professor of Ancient History at the University of Cambridge, dives into the rich history of Gaza and the Philistines. She unpacks the significance of Gaza's monopoly on sweet wine during the reign of Pharaoh Thutmose III and discusses the Bronze Age Collapse that led to the rise of the Philistines. Additionally, Quinn explores biblical narratives of the Philistines, including stories of Samson and David, revealing how these tales reflect local tensions and cultural identities. Join this intriguing journey into ancient urban life!
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Gaza As A Millennia‑Old Crossroads
- Gaza is one of the oldest urban centres and a persistent strategic crossroads between Africa and Asia.
- Its geography made it a rich port and a heavily contested hub for millennia.
Deep Genetic Continuity
- Genetic continuity shows modern inhabitants share broad DNA with Bronze Age peoples.
- Successive conquests altered rulers but did not erase local populations over millennia.
Small Cities Between Great Empires
- In the 2nd millennium BCE Gaza sat between large empires like Egypt, Hittites and Babylon.
- Small Levantine cities negotiated autonomy while major powers vied to control trade and communications.
