Unveiling the Mysteries of Tel Gezer: A Journey Through Ancient Canaanite History

Looking for information on Tel Gezer archaeological site and National Park in Israel? You’re in the right place!

I know Tel Gezer quite well (that’s an understatement) – I had the privilege of excavating there in the 2016-2018 seasons, while also taking photos and making videos, including a mini documentary I’m including in this blog post.

If you find yourself in Israel, a visit to Tel Gezer is a must for history enthusiasts and archaeology aficionados alike. Located in the Shephelah region, this archaeological site holds the remnants of an ancient Canaanite town, with layers of history dating back to King Solomon’s time.

Read on for more information!

Where Is Tel Gezer?

Tel Gezer ( Tell Jezar or Tell el-Jezari in Arabic) is located in the Shephelah region of Israel, halfway between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.

Tel Gezer Throughout History

Chalcolithic Beginnings

The tale of Tel Gezer begins in the Chalcolithic period, at the end of the 4th millennium BCE. During this era, the first settlement took root, utilizing large caves cut into the rock as dwellings—a testament to the resourcefulness of ancient inhabitants.

The Ancient Canaanite Stronghold

Gezer’s history traces back to the Canaanites, establishing itself as a major fortified city-state in the 2nd millennium BCE. The archaeological digs at Tel Gezer have unearthed layers of history, revealing the city’s significance in the annals of the ancient world.

A Strategic Hub in Antiquity

As a pivotal point on the coastal trade route, Tel Gezer played a crucial role in connecting Egypt with Syria, Anatolia, Mesopotamia, and important cities such as Jerusalem and Jericho. Its strategic location made it a coveted prize for various civilizations seeking control over trade and regional dominance.

Gezer in the Amarna Letters

The significance of Gezer is underscored by its mention in the Amarna letters, a collection of diplomatic correspondence from the 14th century BCE. In these letters, the Gezer kings pledged loyalty to the Pharaoh of Egypt, highlighting the geopolitical intricacies of the time. The city’s allegiance to Egypt speaks to its importance in regional power dynamics.

The Victory Stele of Merneptah

Further solidifying its historical prominence, Gezer finds a place in the victory stele of Merneptah, a pharaoh of ancient Egypt. The stele commemorates the pharaoh’s victories, offering a glimpse into the military and political landscape of the era. Gezer’s mention in this context adds another layer to its multifaceted history.

Gezer in the Bible

Beyond its archaeological significance, Gezer finds mention in the Bible multiple times. Its association with the tribe of Ephraim and its conquest by King Solomon, as detailed in the Book of Joshua and 1 Kings, adds a layer of biblical importance to its historical narrative.

Gezer in Assyrian Annals

The historical chronicles of Assyria further amplify Gezer’s prominence. Assyrian annals recount the conquest and destruction of Gezer by Tiglath-Pileser III in 733 BCE, marking a pivotal moment in the city’s history. This event, recorded in the annals, serves as a testament to Gezer’s strategic value and the ebb and flow of power in the ancient Near East.

Gezer’s Hellenistic Boundary Stones

Moving forward in time, Gezer leaves its mark on the Hellenistic period with inscribed boundary stones. These stones, found around the mound, bear inscriptions in both Hebrew and Greek, demarcating the boundaries of the city. The fusion of cultures evident in these artifacts highlights Gezer’s enduring significance through changing epochs.

Gezer Calendar and Agricultural Practices

A remarkable discovery at Tel Gezer is the Gezer Calendar, an inscribed pottery shard providing insights into the agricultural practices of its ancient inhabitants. This lunar-agricultural calendar showcases the connection between the past and present, emphasizing the continuity of farming traditions in the region.

Crusader Battlefields

Fast-forwarding to the medieval era, Gezer became a battleground during the Crusades. In 1177 CE, Crusaders engaged in a critical battle in the fields of Gezer, defeating a Muslim army against the odds. The remnants of this tumultuous period add another layer to the site’s historical tapestry.

Tel Gezer Archaeological Digs

The first time Tel Gezer was excavated was in 1902-1905, then 1907-1909 by R.A.S Macalister (I participated in digging up a lot of his fill). He discovered many of the walls and the tunnel, and then left the rest for future archaeologists with improved methods.

From 1964-1974 G.E. Wright, William Dever and Joe Seger excavated at Tel Gezer with the Nelson Glueck School of Archaeology with Hebrew Union College and Harvard University.

In 1984 and 1990, Dever excavated in Tel Gezer again with Andrews University.

I had the privilege of participating in excavations at Tel Gezer in 2016, 2017, and 2018. The site boasts two excavations—one focused on Solomon’s palace (excavations by SWBTS and the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA)) and the other, the one I was part of, dedicated to excavating part of the tower, a gate, and a mysterious ancient water system (excavations by NOBTS, the Israel Nature and Parks Authority and  the Israeli Antiquities Authority). The highlight of the water system is a 180-foot tunnel with ancient steps, sparking numerous questions among archaeologists.

A Glimpse into the Past

Tel Gezer is unique in that it has written evidence linking it to its biblical location. The discovery of Gezer boundary stones in the early 1870s, inscribed with “Boundary of Gezer” in ancient Hebrew, provided a tangible connection to biblical narratives. The city, mentioned over a dozen times in the Bible, played a significant role in the Israelite conquest of Canaan.

Open to the Public

Today, Tel Gezer is open to the public, thanks to the efforts of the Parks Authority, the IAA and many volunteers. Visitors can explore the 32-acre park, which is not only one of the largest archaeological sites in the country but also offers free admission.

👉 Here’s my mini documentary of the Tel Gezer dig in 2016, with historical information from previous excavations:

Highlights of Tel Gezer

1. The Ancient Water System

The centerpiece of Tel Gezer is the 4,000-year-old Canaanite (Bronze Age) water system. A recent development allows visitors to descend 175 steps into this subterranean marvel, offering a unique glimpse into ancient engineering.

The water system is similar to ones in Tel Megiddo, Tel Hazor and Jerusalem.

2. The Canaanite Tower and Gate

The Canaanite tower, a colossal fortification, and the adjacent gate are essential features of Tel Gezer. The tower, 16 meters wide and 15 meters tall in its prime, once housed administrative centers and possibly the governor’s residence.

In the 2017 excavations, remains were unearthed in the Tower of a family of three, as well as an amulet with the cartouches of Thutmose III and Ramses II from the 13th century BCE, scarabs and cylinder seals.

3. The Canaanite Standing Stones

The trail through Tel Gezer leads to a site believed to be the religious center of Canaanite society. Monolithic rocks, known as Standing Stones, suggest ritualistic practices, possibly linked to the fertility goddesses worshipped by the farming community.

4. Solomon’s Gate

The southern side of Tel Gezer reveals a six-chambered gate, reminiscent of gates at Megiddo and Hazor. Referred to as “Solomon’s Gate,” it is associated with King Solomon’s ambitious city reconstruction projects.

👉 Check out my video tours of Tel Gezer below from 2016 and 2017 (Can you spot the differences?):

FAQs About Tel Gezer

👉 What is the significance of Gezer in the Bible?

Gezer is mentioned in the Bible as a Canaanite city conquered by Joshua and later given to the tribe of Ephraim; it is also associated with King Solomon’s reign.

👉 What is the Canaanites High Place at Tel Gezer?

The Canaanite High Place at Tel Gezer consists of ten large standing stones known as massebot, possibly used for religious rituals and ceremonies.

👉 What does Gezer mean in Hebrew?

In Hebrew, Gezer means “carrot”. It’s also translated to mean “portion” or “lot,” in the Biblical text, reflecting its allocation to the tribe of Ephraim in biblical times.

👉 What is the inscription on Tel Gezer?

The inscription on Tel Gezer is the Gezer Calendar, an early Iron Age inscription listing the agricultural periods and tasks.

👉 What happened at Gezer?

Gezer has a rich history, including Chalcolithic settlement, Canaanite city-state, destruction by Thutmose III, alliances with Egypt, Neo-Assyrian siege, and Crusader conflicts.

👉 Is Gezer the same as Gaza?

Gezer is not the same as Gaza; they are distinct locations with different historical and geographical contexts.

👉 Who was the king of Gezer?

The kings of Gezer during the 14th century BCE are mentioned in the Tell Amarna letters, but specific names may vary.

👉 Who lived in Gezer?

Gezer was inhabited by Canaanites, and later, it witnessed various rulers and populations, including Israelites and Philistines.

👉 What is the origin of the word Gezer?

The word “Gezer” likely has Canaanite origins.

👉 Who built the Iron Age Gate at Gezer?

The Iron Age Gate at Gezer is believed to have been built during the 10th century BCE, possibly during the period of notable urban development.

What you’ll need to visit archaeological sites in Israel

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Tel Gezer: A Time Capsule of History

Tel Gezer stands as a testament to the ebb and flow of civilizations, from Canaanite rule to Egyptian conquest and subsequent abandonment. The site’s recent facelift and improved accessibility make it a captivating destination for those seeking to unravel the mysteries of the past.

Whether you’re navigating the Canaanite tower, descending into the ancient water system, or contemplating the significance of the Gezer Calendar, Tel Gezer offers a journey through time, inviting visitors to connect with the rich tapestry of Israel’s history. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this archaeological gem, where every step echoes the footsteps of ancient civilizations.

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