Tel Beer Sheva National Park

Tel Beer Sheva National Park – A Fascinating Journey into Biblical Times in the Negev

Tel Beer Sheva National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the heart of the Be'er Sheva Valley. It showcases the remains of the ancient biblical city, an impressive ancient water system, and stunning viewpoints of the northern Negev. The ancient city was an important administrative center in the Kingdom of Judah, offering a unique experience of authentic biblical history.

Main Points of Interest at the Site:

• The Ancient Altar – A unique stone altar from the biblical period, restored and placed at the entrance to the site. The original four-cornered altar is currently displayed at the Israel Museum in Jerusalem.
• The Ancient Water System – An exceptional underground water system with a deep shaft and an ancient water reservoir carved into the rock. Visitors can tour the system and admire the ancient water storage methods.
• The Deep Well – One of the deepest ancient wells in Israel, reaching a depth of about 69 meters to the groundwater level.
• The Storage Houses – Remains of large storage buildings where grain and tools from the Kingdom of Judah were stored.
• The Governor’s Palace and City Gates – Impressive remains of public buildings, gates, and watchtowers from the Iron Age, offering a glimpse into daily life in the biblical city.

Historical and Archaeological Background:

Tel Beer Sheva began developing in the Chalcolithic period, but its peak was during the Kingdom of Judah in the 8th–9th centuries BCE. The ancient city was surrounded by a strong wall and included an advanced water system considered an engineering marvel. The city was destroyed during the campaign of Sennacherib, King of Assyria, in 701 BCE. Later periods saw the construction of Hellenistic, Roman, and Ottoman fortresses, making the site one of the richest and most diverse historically in the Negev.

Geography and Hydrology:

The tel is located at a crucial junction of the Hebron Stream and the Be'er Sheva Stream, in an area with a high water table, which led to the construction of advanced ancient water systems. The Be'er Sheva Stream flows into the Besor Stream, which drains the entire region and flows into the Mediterranean Sea.

How to Get There:

• From Be'er Sheva: Drive on Route 60 towards Omer, then east of Tel Sheva, follow the signs to Tel Beer Sheva.
• From Central Israel: Drive south on Routes 40 or 6, then head towards Route 60 and east of Tel Sheva.

Who is This Visit Suitable For?

• Families and history and archaeology enthusiasts
• Groups and educational tours
• Visitors looking for an authentic and fascinating experience of ancient history

Opening Hours and Additional Information:

Entry by prior arrangement through the Nature and Parks Authority website. It is recommended to bring a hat, water, and comfortable shoes.

Recommended Visit:

Combine your visit to the site with a tour of modern Be'er Sheva and other sites in the Negev.

Tel Beer Sheva National Park is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of Israel – a lively and fascinating encounter with biblical heritage in the desert.