Tel Arad National Park

Location and Geography

Tel Arad is a national park located in southern Israel, situated on the site of the ancient city of Arad. It is positioned 7 km west of modern Arad, marking the border between the Negev desert and the Judean desert.

Archaeological Significance

The national park encompasses two distinct archaeological sites: the Lower City, a Canaanite city dating back to the Bronze Age (circa 2950–2800 BC), and the Upper City, a Jewish city from the First Temple period (from the 11th century BC).

### Canaanite Arad

* The territory of Canaanite Arad covers over 10 hectares.
* The city was surrounded by a wall with towers and gates, measuring 1200 meters in length, 3-4 meters in width, and up to 8 meters in height.
* Excavations have uncovered various artifacts, including a jar attributed to Narmer, the founder of Egypt's first dynasty.

### Jewish City

* A temple was discovered in the Upper City, featuring an altar identical in size to that of the tabernacle of the Covenant.
* Two steles were found within the temple, likely dedicated to Yahweh and Asherah, similar to inscriptions found elsewhere, such as "To the Almighty and His Wife."

History

The Canaanite city flourished during the period of 2950–2800 BC. The Jewish city, on the other hand, was inhabited during the First Temple period (from the 11th century BC).