Explore the ancient city of Jericho and its historical significance; discuss connections and trade networks during the Stone Age; uncover material culture and everyday lives of the people through archaeological findings; promote the archaeology of Jericho and highlight potential for future discoveries.
Jericho's archaeological evidence does not support the biblical story of Joshua's Siege, suggesting it may be a myth.
Throughout its history, Jericho played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural, agricultural, and defensive processes of other ancient civilizations.
Deep dives
The Archaeology of Jericho: From Stone Age to Iron Age
Jericho, situated in the West Bank, has evidence of settlement and fortifications dating back 10,000 years. The oldest known stone tower in history is found here. The site has a fascinating story, delving into its layers of archaeology from the Stone Age to the Iron Age. The biblical story of Joshua's Siege of Jericho is discussed, but the archaeology does not support it. Jericho's unique features include defensive walls and complex structures. It was an important trading center with connections to the wider community.
The Stone Age Settlement of Jericho
In the Stone Age, Jericho was a settled community known for its permanent structures and agricultural practices. The Neolithic period, around 10,000 BC to 7,000 BC, saw the construction of a stone-built wall and tower, indicating a well-organized society. Archaeologists have found agricultural tools, ceremonial artifacts like plastered skulls and statues, as well as evidence of trade connections.
The Prominence of Jericho in the Bronze Age
In the early Bronze Age, Jericho was a prominent settlement and saw the construction of fortified walls and the growth of a prosperous community. The middle Bronze Age marked the zenith of Jericho, with increased fortification, storerooms filled with grain, and wealth displayed through pottery and grave goods. However, the later Bronze Age saw decline and periods of abandonment, possibly due to external factors and changes in regional politics.
The Legacy of Jericho in Later Periods
In the Iron Age, Jericho experienced resettlement but did not regain its former prominence. It was later destroyed by the Babylonians in 587/586 BC. Resettlement occurred in the Persian period but was patchy, and the site was eventually abandoned. Jericho remained important as an agricultural region and trade route throughout antiquity, but the mound itself did not regain its former significance.
The ancient city of Jericho is often thought to be the oldest continuously inhabited settlement in the world. Made famous by the biblical tale of its conquest by Joshua, it is situated a stones throw from the western bank of the Jordan River. But did Jericho’s famous walls really come crashing down at the sound of Joshua’s trumpets?
In this episode of The Ancients, Tristan speaks to archeologist Felicity Cobbing from the Palestine Exploration Fund to explore what Jericho’s archeology can reveal about its past. In doing so they catch glimpses of the city's extraordinary evolution and the pivotal role it played in shaping the cultural, agricultural and defensive processes of other ancient civilisations.
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