Jericho: The Natural Oasis

What material did the inhabitants of Jericho NOT use to make vessels during this era?

What was one of the potential reasons for the construction of the substantial stone wall around Jericho?

Which tool material was prominently traded by the inhabitants of Jericho?

How high was the stone tower constructed against the inner side of Jericho's wall?

What is one speculation regarding the function of the exterior ditch around Jericho?

What does the Arabic name Ārīḥā, referring to Jericho, mean?

When did the first visitors arrive at Jericho?

What significant archaeological discovery has NOT been found at Jericho?

Which period does the first settlement at Jericho, around the Ein as-Sultan spring, date back to?

What type of structures were discovered in the Pre-Pottery Neolithic A levels at Jericho?

What is the geological formation called that Jericho is built upon, due to layers of human habitation?

What drove the early inhabitants of Jericho to settle there?

In what time frame did serious archaeological exploration of Jericho begin?

Jericho: A Historical Overview

Jericho, located just north of the Dead Sea and west of the Jordan River, is among the oldest continuously inhabited cities globally.
The Arabic name, Ārīḥā, translates to "fragrant," indicative of its status as a natural oasis, abundant in freshwater springs.
Human activity in Jericho dates back to between 10,000 and 9,000 B.C.E., with descendants living in the region today.

Biblical Significance

The site gained prominence primarily due to its biblical associations, attracting pilgrims and explorers since the 4th century C.E.
Archaeological investigations began in earnest in the late 19th century, with a focus on finding evidence related to the biblical figure Joshua.
Joshua led the Israelites to victory against the Canaanites, with the famous account of the city's walls falling after his army marched around them (Joshua 6:1–27).
Despite extensive searches, no direct evidence of Joshua has been found, but approximately 12,000 years of human history has been uncovered.

Archaeological Findings

The most significant discoveries at Jericho predate Joshua, originating from the earliest Neolithic era, prior to pottery invention.
Archaeologists have identified remains of circular homes made from mud bricks, characterized by domed roofs in the Pre-Pottery Neolithic A levels.
Early inhabitants practiced agriculture, animal husbandry, and created stone vessels while trading for obsidian from regions as far as eastern Turkey.

Settlement Structure and Defense

Jericho's elevation results from layers of human habitation, defining a geological formation known as a Tell.
The settlement grew rapidly, leading to the construction of a stone wall and a deep exterior ditch around 8,000 years ago.
A significant stone tower, approximately eight meters high, was built against the inner side of the wall, serving various proposed functions, including military defense and protection from predators.
The construction of these walls predates the biblical account by around six millennia, representing early human ingenuity in community protection.

Explore the rich history of Jericho, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Located just north of the Dead Sea, this natural oasis has attracted visitors since 10,000 B.C.E. Discover what makes this archaeological site so significant and learn about its freshwater springs.