Where is Jericho located and what is its administrative status?

Jericho is a Palestinian city situated in the West Bank and serves as the capital of the Jericho Governorate. Geographically, it is located in the Jordan Valley, with the Jordan River to its east and Jerusalem to its west.

What makes Jericho historically significant according to archaeological findings?

Jericho is considered among the oldest cities in the world, with archaeologists having uncovered the remains of more than 20 successive settlements. The earliest of these settlements dates back approximately 11,000 years, to 9000 BCE, placing its origins near the very beginning of the Holocene epoch of Earth's history.

What is the significance of Tell es-Sultan in Jericho's history?

Tell es-Sultan, also known as Sultan's Hill or Old Jericho, is the site of the earliest excavated settlement and was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2023. It is described as the 'oldest fortified city in the world' and is the type site for the Pre-Pottery Neolithic A (PPNA) and Pre-Pottery Neolithic B (PPNB) periods.

What are the proposed origins of Jericho's name in Biblical Hebrew?

Jericho's name in Biblical Hebrew, Yəriḥo, is generally thought to derive from the Canaanite word rēḥ, meaning 'fragrant'. However, other theories suggest it might originate from the Canaanite word Yaraḥ, meaning 'moon', or from the name of the lunar deity Yarikh, for whom the city was an early center of worship.

What is the meaning of Jericho's Arabic name, Arīḥā?

Jericho's Arabic name, Arīḥā, means 'fragrant' and also has its roots in the Canaanite word rēḥ, similar to the proposed origin of its Biblical Hebrew name.

Who were some of the early archaeologists involved in excavating Jericho?

Early excavations at Jericho were conducted by Charles Warren in 1868. Later, Ernst Sellin and Carl Watzinger excavated Tell es-Sultan and Tulul Abu el-'Alayiq between 1907 and 1909, and again in 1911. John Garstang also carried out excavations between 1930 and 1936, and Kathleen Kenyon worked there between 1952 and 1958.

What is the current archaeological project at Tell es-Sultan and who directs it?

Since 2009, an Italian-Palestinian archaeological project of excavation and restoration has been ongoing at Tell es-Sultan. This project is a collaboration between Rome's 'La Sapienza' University and the Palestinian MOTA-DACH, directed by Lorenzo Nigro, Hamdan Taha, and Jehad Yasine since 2015.

What significant discoveries has the Italian-Palestinian Expedition made at Tell es-Sultan?

The Italian-Palestinian Expedition, which conducted 13 seasons of work between 1997 and 2017, made major discoveries including Tower A1 in the Middle Bronze Age southern Lower Town and Palace G on the eastern flanks of the Spring Hill, overlooking the Spring of 'Ain es-Sultan, dating from Early Bronze III.

What evidence of Natufian culture was found at Jericho, dating back to around 10,000 BCE?

Evidence of Epipaleolithic construction at Jericho, associated with Natufian culture structures, appears to predate the invention of agriculture, beginning earlier than 9000 BCE. During the Younger Dryas period of cold and drought, the Ein es-Sultan spring at what would become Jericho was a popular camping ground for Natufian hunter-gatherer groups, who left a scattering of crescent-shaped microlith tools behind them.

How did the end of the Younger Dryas period impact human habitation at Jericho?

Around 9600 BCE, the droughts and cold of the Younger Dryas stadial came to an end, making it possible for Natufian groups to extend the duration of their stay at the Ein es-Sultan spring. This eventually led to year-round habitation and the establishment of a permanent settlement.

What were the key characteristics of the Pre-Pottery Neolithic A (PPNA) culture at Jericho?

The first permanent settlement on the site of Jericho developed near the Ein es-Sultan spring between 9,500 and 9000 BCE. This new culture, termed PPNA, lacked pottery but featured small circular dwellings, the burial of the dead under the floor of buildings, reliance on hunting wild game, and the cultivation of wild or domestic cereals.

Describe the construction of dwellings during the PPNA period in Jericho.

During the PPNA period in Jericho, circular dwellings were built of clay and straw bricks left to dry in the sun, which were plastered together with a mud mortar. Each house measured about 5 meters (16 feet) across and was roofed with mud-smeared brush, with hearths located both within and outside the homes.

What notable defensive structures were built during the PPNA period at Jericho?

During the PPNA period, around 8000 BCE, a 40,000 m² settlement at Jericho was surrounded by a massive stone wall over 3.6 meters (12 feet) high and 1.8 meters (5 feet 11 inches) wide at the base. Inside this wall stood a stone tower, over 8.5 meters (28 feet) high, containing an internal staircase with 22 stone steps, placed in the center of the west side of the tell.

What were the possible purposes of the wall and tower constructed in PPNA Jericho?

The wall in PPNA Jericho may have served as a defense against flood water, possibly to prevent the erosion of agricultural soil. The tower, on the other hand, is thought to have been used for ceremonial purposes.

What does the construction of the PPNA wall and tower suggest about the social organization of ancient Jericho?

The construction of the PPNA wall and tower, which would have taken a hundred men more than a hundred days to complete, suggests the presence of some kind of social organization within the ancient settlement.

What were the main cultural features of the Pre-Pottery Neolithic B (PPNB) period in Jericho?

The PPNB period at Jericho, lasting from approximately 7220 to 5850 BCE, featured an expanded range of domesticated plants, possible domestication of sheep, and an apparent cult involving the preservation of human skulls. These skulls had facial features reconstructed using plaster, and in some cases, eyes were set with shells.

How did the architecture of the PPNB period differ from the PPNA period in Jericho?

In the PPNB period, Jericho's architecture consisted of rectilinear buildings made of mudbricks on stone foundations, a departure from the circular dwellings of the PPNA period. The mudbricks were loaf-shaped with deep thumb prints to facilitate bonding, and rooms typically clustered around a central courtyard, often featuring red or pinkish terrazzo floors made of lime.

What unique artifacts related to human remains were found in PPNB Jericho?

Artifacts from PPNB Jericho include ten plastered human skulls, which were painted to reconstitute the individuals' features, with cowries sometimes used for eyes. These are considered either teraphim or the first examples of portraiture in art history, and it is thought that they were kept in people's homes while the bodies were buried.

What types of tools and other items were discovered in PPNB Jericho?

Discoveries from PPNB Jericho included various flint tools such as arrowheads (tanged or side-notched), finely denticulated sickle-blades, burins, scrapers, and a few tranchet axes. Other items found were obsidian (including green obsidian from an unknown source), querns, hammerstones, ground-stone axes, carved limestone dishes and bowls, spindle whorls, spatulae, drills, stylized anthropomorphic plaster figures (almost life-size), anthropomorphic and theriomorphic clay figurines, as well as shell and malachite beads.

When did Jericho reach its greatest extent during the Early Bronze Age?

During the Early Bronze IIIA period (circa 2700 – 2500/2450 BCE; Sultan IIIC1), the settlement of Jericho reached its largest extent around 2600 BCE.

What characterized Jericho during the Middle Bronze Age before its destruction?

During the Middle Bronze Age, Jericho was a small but prominent city in the Canaan region, reaching its greatest Bronze Age extent between 1700 and 1550 BCE. It was surrounded by extensive defensive walls strengthened with rectangular towers and possessed an extensive cemetery with vertical shaft-tombs and underground burial chambers, where elaborate funeral offerings may reflect the emergence of local kings.

When was the Middle Bronze Age city of Jericho destroyed?

The Bronze Age city of Jericho fell in the 16th century BCE, at the end of the Middle Bronze Age. Calibrated carbon remains from its City-IV destruction layer date this event to between 1617 and 1530 BCE, with carbon dating around 1573 BCE confirming the stratigraphical dating of approximately 1550 BCE.

How did Jericho recover in the Late Bronze Age after the destruction of the Middle Bronze Age city?

Decades after the destruction of the Middle Bronze Age city, Jericho recovered on a smaller scale during the Late Bronze Age (1450–1200 BC). The previous Middle Bronze city wall was refurbished by adding a mudbrick wall on top of its emerging crest.

What was the Middle Building in Late Bronze Age Jericho?

The Middle Building found in Late Bronze Age Jericho apparently served as the residence for the city's local rulers, who were vassals of the Egyptian empire at that time. This structure was eventually destroyed but later reused in the early Iron Age.

What is the scholarly view on the historicity of the biblical Battle of Jericho?

The historicity of the biblical account of the Battle of Jericho, where Joshua led the Israelites to capture the Canaanite city, is not generally accepted by scholars. Lorenzo Nigro suggests that the story might have developed from local memories of the destructions suffered by the Canaanite city in the 3rd and 2nd millennia BCE, which were later used by the biblical writers to create their narrative.

What happened to Jericho during the Iron Age after its re-fortification?

Occupation in Tell es-Sultan appears to have resumed in the 11th century BCE, with the town becoming fortified again in the 10th century. By the 7th century, Jericho had become an extensive town, but this settlement was destroyed during the Babylonian conquest of Judah in the late 6th century BCE.

How did Jericho's status change under Persian and early Hellenistic rule?

After its destruction by the Babylonians, Jericho went from being an administrative center of Yehud Medinata (the Province of Judah) under Persian rule to serving as the private estate of Alexander the Great between 336 and 323 BCE. In the middle of the 2nd century BCE, under Hellenistic rule of the Seleucid Empire, Syrian General Bacchides built a number of forts to strengthen the defenses around Jericho against the Maccabean revolt.

What significant developments occurred in Jericho during the Herodian period?

During the Herodian period, Octavian granted Herod the Great absolute rule over Jericho. Herod oversaw the construction of a hippodrome-theatre (Tell es-Samrat) and new aqueducts to irrigate the area, leading to the building of his winter palaces at the site of Tulul Abu el-Alaiq. The city functioned not only as an agricultural center and a crossroad but also as a winter resort for Jerusalem's aristocracy.

What did Strabo's Geography describe about first-century Jericho?

Strabo's Geography described first-century Jericho as a plain surrounded by a mountainous country that sloped toward it like a theatre. It featured a Phoenicon, which was a mix of cultivated and fruitful trees, though mostly palm trees. The area was 100 stadia in length, everywhere watered with streams, and contained the Palace and the Balsam Park.

What events involving Jesus are mentioned as taking place in or near Jericho in the Christian Gospels?

The Christian Gospels state that Jesus of Nazareth passed through Jericho, where he healed blind beggars and inspired a local chief tax collector named Zacchaeus to repent of his dishonest practices. Additionally, the road between Jerusalem and Jericho is famously the setting for the Parable of the Good Samaritan.

What was Jericho's status after the fall of Jerusalem in 70 CE?

After the fall of Jerusalem to Vespasian's armies in the Great Revolt of Judea in 70 CE, Jericho declined rapidly. By 100 CE, it was merely a small Roman garrison town, and a fort built there in 130 CE played a role in suppressing the Bar Kochba revolt in 133 CE.

What significant Christian and Jewish structures were built in Jericho during the Byzantine period?

During the Byzantine era, Christianity took hold in Jericho, leading to the construction of several monasteries and churches, including the Monastery of Saint George of Choziba (340 CE) and a domed church dedicated to Saint Eliseus. At least two synagogues were also built in the 6th century CE, notably the Shalom Al Yisrael Synagogue and the Na'aran synagogue.

What happened to Jericho during the Early Muslim period, specifically regarding its name and an earthquake?

During the Early Muslim period, Jericho was named 'Ariha' in Arabic and became part of Jund Filastin. In 659, an earthquake destroyed Jericho, and a decade later, the pilgrim Arculf visited and found it in ruins, with its inhabitants dispersed.

Describe Hisham's Palace, an important site from the Early Muslim period near Jericho.

Hisham's Palace, located at Khirbet al-Mafjar about 1.5 kilometers north of Tell es-Sultan, is a palatial complex often attributed to the tenth Umayyad caliph, Hisham ibn Abd al-Malik, but more likely built by Caliph Walid ibn Yazid. Though unfinished, its remains include two mosques, a courtyard, and mosaics, and it was largely destroyed by an earthquake in 747.

How did Jericho's economy and reputation evolve under Islamic rule?

Under Islamic rule, irrigated agriculture was significantly developed in Jericho, reaffirming its reputation as a fertile 'City of the Palms'. The Arab geographer Al-Maqdisi noted in 985 that Jericho's water was considered the highest and best in all Islam, and the city was abundant in bananas, dates, and fragrant flowers.

What contributions did the Crusaders make to Jericho during their period of control?

In 1179, the Crusaders rebuilt the Monastery of St. George of Koziba and constructed two other churches and a monastery dedicated to John the Baptist. While sugarcane production in the city is now dated to the pre-Crusader, Early Arab period, the Crusaders are credited with raising it to the level of a large-scale industry, with remains of a sugar production facility found at Tawahin es-Sukkar.

What observations did Arab geographers make about Jericho during the Ayyubid and Mamluk periods?

In 1226, Arab geographer Yaqut al-Hamawi noted Jericho's abundance of palm trees, sugarcane, and bananas, stating that the best sugar in the Ghaur land was produced there. In the 14th century, Abu al-Fida mentioned the presence of sulfur mines in Jericho, describing them as the only ones in Palestine.

How was Jericho integrated into the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century, and what were its economic activities?

Jericho was incorporated into the Ottoman Empire in 1517 with all of Palestine. In 1545, a revenue of 19,000 Akçe was recorded, destined for the new Waqf for the Haseki Sultan Imaret of Jerusalem. The villagers also processed indigo as one source of revenue, using a cauldron specifically for this purpose that was loaned to them by the Ottoman authorities in Jerusalem.

What was the population and economic state of Jericho in the late 16th century according to Ottoman tax registers?

In 1596, Ottoman tax registers listed Jericho, under the name Riha, as having 51 households, all Muslim. They paid a fixed tax-rate of 33.3% on agricultural products, including wheat, barley, summer crops, vineyards and fruit trees, goats and beehives, and water buffaloes, in addition to occasional revenues, totaling 40,000 Akçe, all of which still went to a Waqf.

What did Laurent d'Arvieux observe about Jericho in the 17th century?

The French traveler Laurent d'Arvieux described Jericho in 1659 as 'now desolate, and consists only of about fifty poor houses, in bad condition'. He noted that despite the surrounding plain being 'extremely fertile' and watered by several rivulets, only the gardens adjacent to the town were cultivated.

What were the observations of European scholars and travelers about Jericho in the 19th century?

In the 19th century, European scholars, archaeologists, and missionaries frequently visited Jericho, finding it to be an oasis in a poor state. Edward Robinson reported about 50 families (approximately 200 people) in 1838, while Titus Tobler noted around 30 poor huts in 1854. J. S. Buckingham described male villagers engaging in Bedouin-style raiding, with women and children primarily responsible for land cultivation.

What was Jericho's population and land use during the British Mandate period, specifically in 1945?

According to 1945 statistics, Jericho's population was 3,010 inhabitants, with 2,840 being Arab and 170 being Jews. The city had jurisdiction over 37,481 dunams of land, of which 948 dunams were used for citrus and bananas, 5,873 dunams for plantations and irrigable land, 9,141 for cereals, and 38 dunams were urban, built-up areas.

How did Jericho come under Jordanian control, and what political event occurred there in 1948?

Jericho came under Jordanian control after the 1948 Arab–Israeli War. In 1948, the Jericho Conference, organized by King Abdullah and attended by over 2,000 Palestinian delegates, proclaimed 'His Majesty Abdullah as King of all Palestine' and called for the unification of Palestine and Transjordan.

What was the significance of the Gaza–Jericho Agreement of 1994?

The Gaza–Jericho Agreement, signed on May 4, 1994, was a crucial part of the Oslo Accords, leading to Jericho becoming the first city handed over to Palestinian Authority control and granting it limited Palestinian self-rule. This agreement also included a Protocol on Economic Relations, signed on April 29, 1994.

How has the Israeli occupation impacted Jericho's movement and security since 1967?

Since its occupation by Israel in the Six-Day War of 1967, Jericho has experienced significant restrictions on movement. The city is an enclave within Area A of the West Bank, while the surrounding area is designated as Area C under full Israeli military control. Four roadblocks encircle the enclave, restricting the movement of Jericho's Palestinian population. Following the 2001 Second Intifada, Israeli troops re-occupied Jericho, and a 2-meter deep trench was built around a large part of the city to control Palestinian traffic.

What is Jericho's geographical distinction regarding its elevation?

Jericho is located 258 meters (846 feet) below sea level, making it the lowest city in the world. It is situated in an oasis within Wadi Qelt in the Jordan Valley.

What is the role of the Ein es-Sultan spring in Jericho's environment?

The Ein es-Sultan spring, also known as the Spring of Elisha to Jews and Christians, is a vital water source for Jericho. It produces 3.8 cubic meters (1,000 gallons) of water per minute, which irrigates approximately 10 square kilometers (2,500 acres) through multiple channels and feeds into the Jordan River, located 10 kilometers away.

What is Jericho's climate classification and what are its average temperatures?

Jericho has a hot desert climate (BWh) according to the Köppen climate classification. The average temperature is 11°C (52°F) in January and 31°C (88°F) in July, with annual rainfall of 204 mm (8.0 inches), mostly concentrated in the winter months and early spring. The rich alluvial soil and abundant spring water have historically made Jericho an attractive place for settlement.

What is the demographic composition of Jericho according to the 1997 Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics census?

The first census carried out by the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics (PCBS) in 1997 reported Jericho's population as 14,674, with Palestinian refugees constituting 43.6% of the residents, or 6,393 people. The gender make-up of the city was 51% male and 49% female, and nearly half (49.2%) of the inhabitants were under the age of 20.

What are the main economic activities in Jericho today?

Today, agriculture, particularly banana cultivation, is a significant source of income for Jericho. The city is also developing the Jericho Agro-Industrial Park, a public-private enterprise that offers financial concessions to agricultural processing companies in a bid to boost Jericho's economy.

What role does tourism play in Jericho's economy?

Tourism is one of Jericho's primary sources of income, with Christian tourism being particularly important due to several major pilgrimage sites. In 2010, Jericho, with its proximity to the Dead Sea, was declared the most popular destination among Palestinian tourists. The city also features a casino-hotel, though the casino itself is currently closed while the hotel remains open.

Jericho Wiki: Jericho: A Journey Through Millennia

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Overview

Location and Significance

Jericho, known in Arabic as Ariha, is a prominent city situated in the West Bank of Palestine, serving as the capital of the Jericho Governorate. Geographically, it lies within the Jordan Valley, bordered by the Jordan River to the east and Jerusalem to the west. This strategic location, coupled with abundant natural springs, has made it a focal point for human settlement for millennia. Jericho holds the distinction of being among the oldest cities globally, and notably, the lowest city in the world, positioned 258 meters (846 feet) below sea level.^[6]^[17]^[109]

A Tapestry of Settlements

Archaeological investigations have unveiled a remarkable stratigraphic record at Jericho, revealing the remains of over 20 successive settlements. The earliest of these date back an astonishing 11,000 years, to approximately 9000 BCE, marking its origins near the dawn of the Holocene epoch.^[8]^[9] This continuous habitation, sustained by copious springs, underscores Jericho's enduring appeal and its role as a cradle of early human civilization. In 2023, the archaeological site of Tell es-Sultan, or Old Jericho, was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated as the "oldest fortified city in the world."^[14]^[15]

The City of Palm Trees

Throughout its long history, Jericho has been renowned for its fertility. The Bible itself refers to Jericho as the "city of palm trees," a testament to its lush environment in an otherwise arid region.^[13] This agricultural richness, particularly in dates and bananas, has been a consistent theme across various historical periods, contributing significantly to its economy and cultural identity.

Etymology

Fragrant Origins

The name Jericho, in Biblical Hebrew, is Yəriḥo (יְרִיחוֹ). This is widely believed to originate from the Canaanite word rēḥ, meaning 'fragrant'. This etymology suggests an ancient recognition of the city's lush, fertile environment, likely due to its abundant springs and vegetation, which would have made it a fragrant oasis in the desert landscape.^[16]

Lunar Connections

Alternative theories propose that the name Yəriḥo might stem from the Canaanite word Yaraḥ, meaning 'moon', or be linked to the lunar deity Yarikh. Historical evidence indicates that Jericho was an early center of worship for this lunar deity, suggesting a deep connection between the city and ancient celestial reverence.^[16]

Arabic Adaptation

Jericho's Arabic name, أريحا (Arīḥā), also carries the meaning of 'fragrant'. This linguistic continuity across different historical periods and languages reinforces the perception of Jericho as a verdant and pleasant place. The Arabic name, like its Hebrew counterpart, draws its roots from the Canaanite term rēḥ, highlighting a shared ancient heritage in its nomenclature.^[17]^[18]^[19]

History

Early Excavations

The archaeological exploration of Jericho began in earnest in 1868 with Charles Warren. Subsequent significant excavations at Tell es-Sultan and Tulul Abu el-'Alayiq were conducted by Ernst Sellin and Carl Watzinger (1907-1909, 1911), and John Garstang (1930-1936). Kathleen Kenyon's extensive work between 1952 and 1958 provided crucial insights into the site's stratigraphy and early periods. More recently, Lorenzo Nigro and Nicolò Marchetti led excavations from 1997-2000, with an Italian-Palestinian project resuming in 2009 under Nigro, Hamdan Taha, and Jehad Yasine.^[20]

Stone Age: Tell es-Sultan

The earliest settlements were concentrated at Tell es-Sultan, a few kilometers from the modern city. This site is recognized as the type site for the Pre-Pottery Neolithic A (PPNA) and Pre-Pottery Neolithic B (PPNB) periods.^[21]

Natufian Hunter-Gatherers (c. 10,000 BCE)

Epipaleolithic construction predates agriculture. During the Younger Dryas, Ein es-Sultan spring was a popular camping ground for Natufian hunter-gatherers. Around 9600 BCE, with the end of the Younger Dryas, permanent settlement became possible.^[7]^[24]

Pre-Pottery Neolithic A (PPNA, c. 9500–9000 BCE)

The first permanent settlement emerged near Ein es-Sultan. This culture, lacking pottery, featured:^[25]^[26]

Small circular dwellings of clay and straw bricks, plastered with mud mortar, about 5 meters (16 ft) across.^[28]
Burial of the dead under building floors.
Reliance on hunting wild game.
Cultivation of wild or domestic cereals (emmer wheat, barley, pulses).

A massive stone wall, over 3.6 meters (12 ft) high and 1.8 meters (5 ft 11 in) wide at the base, surrounded a 40,000 m² settlement. Inside stood an 8.5-meter (28 ft) high stone tower with an internal staircase of 22 steps, located on the west side of the tell.^[17]^[29] This wall and tower, built around 8000 BCE, are among the oldest known defensive structures, suggesting early social organization.^[30]^[33]^[34]

Pre-Pottery Neolithic B (PPNB, c. 7220–5850 BCE)

After a hiatus, a second settlement was established around 6800 BCE. PPNB cultural features included:^[21]

Expanded range of domesticated plants and possible domestication of sheep.
A cult involving the preservation of human skulls, with facial features reconstructed using plaster and eyes set with shells. Ten such plastered skulls were found, representing early portraiture.^[7]^[17]^[37]
Rectilinear buildings of mudbricks on stone foundations, often clustered around a central courtyard with lime terrazzo floors.

Bronze Age Flourishing

Jericho saw continuous occupation into the Middle Bronze Age, becoming a prominent city in Canaan. It reached its greatest Bronze Age extent between 1700 and 1550 BCE, characterized by extensive defensive walls with rectangular towers and elaborate shaft-tombs, possibly indicating local kings.^[40] Kathleen Kenyon noted its prosperity and advanced defenses during this period.^[41] The city was destroyed in the 16th century BCE, marking the end of its urban center status for a time.^[41]

Early Bronze Age

EB IA (c. 3500–3200 BCE): Sultan IIIA1 village.
EB IB (c. 3200–3000 BCE): Sultan IIIA2 rural town (proto-urban).^[39]
EB IIA (c. 3000-2850 BCE): Sultan IIIB1 fortified town.
EB IIB (c. 2850–2700 BCE): Sultan IIIB2 with added towers and bastions.^[39]
EB IIIA (c. 2700–2500/2450 BCE): Sultan IIIC1, settlement reached its largest extent around 2600 BCE.^[17]
EB IIIB (c. 2500/2450–2350 BCE): Sultan IIIC2, featuring Palace G on Spring Hill and city walls.
EB IVA (2300–2200 BCE): Sultan IIID1.
EB IVB (2200–2000 BCE): Sultan IIID2.^[39]

Middle Bronze Age (Nigro 2016 Chronology)

MB IA (c. 2000/1950-1900 BC): Tell es-Sultan IVa1.
MB IB (c. 1900-1800 BC): Tell es-Sultan IVa2.
MB IIA (c. 1800-1700 BC): Tell es-Sultan IVb1.
MB IIB (c. 1700-1650 BC): Tell es-Sultan IVb2.
MB IIC/III (c. 1650-1550 BC): Tell es-Sultan IVc.

Late Bronze Age (1450–1200 BC)

After a period of destruction, Jericho recovered on a smaller scale. The Middle Bronze city wall was refurbished with a mudbrick wall. A "Middle Building" served as a residence for local rulers, vassals of the Egyptian empire, before its destruction and later reuse in the early Iron Age.^[42]^[43]

The Hebrew Bible narrative of the Battle of Jericho, led by Joshua, describes the fall of the Canaanite city. While the historicity of this account is debated by scholars,^[45]^[46] it is suggested that the story may have evolved from local memories of the destructions suffered by the Canaanite city in the 3rd and 2nd millennia BCE, later adapted by biblical writers.^[47]

Classical & Post-Classical Eras

Following the Bronze Age, Jericho experienced cycles of decline and resurgence. During the Iron Age (11th-6th century BCE), occupation resumed, and the town was refortified, only to be destroyed during the Babylonian conquest of Judah.^[48] The Persian and early Hellenistic periods saw little occupation. Under Hellenistic rule, General Bacchides built forts against the Maccabean revolt, one of which Herod the Great later refortified as Kypros.^[51]

Hasmonean and Herodian Periods

The new Jericho emerged as a garden city near the royal estate at Tulul Abu el-'Alayiq, flourishing through intensive spring water exploitation.^[49] Herod the Great, after regaining control from Cleopatra, expanded Jericho, building a hippodrome-theatre and aqueducts to irrigate his winter palaces. Josephus describes the city as a winter resort for Jerusalem's aristocracy.^[52]^[55]

In the New Testament

The Gospels recount Jesus passing through Jericho, where he healed blind beggars and inspired Zacchaeus, a tax collector, to repent.^[56] The road between Jerusalem and Jericho is famously the setting for the Parable of the Good Samaritan.^[56]

Roman and Byzantine Periods

After Jerusalem's fall in 70 CE, Jericho declined to a small Roman garrison town. By the Byzantine period, a new Christian Jericho, Ericha, was built to the east. Christianity flourished, leading to the construction of monasteries and churches, including the Monastery of Saint George of Choziba. At least two synagogues, Shalom Al Yisrael and Na'aran, also date to the 6th-7th centuries CE.^[59]^[52]^[55]

Early Muslim Period

Renamed "Ariha," Jericho became part of Jund Filastin. An earthquake in 659 CE destroyed the city. Later, the palatial complex known as Hisham's Palace was built north of Tell es-Sultan, though it was largely destroyed by an earthquake in 747 CE. Under Islamic rule, irrigated agriculture thrived, reinforcing Jericho's reputation as a "City of the Palms."^[62]^[64]^[65]

Crusader, Ayyubid, and Mamluk Periods

The Crusaders rebuilt monasteries and introduced large-scale sugarcane production. After their eviction by Saladin in 1187, the town declined. Arab geographers like Yaqut al-Hamawi and Abu al-Fida noted Jericho's abundant palm trees, sugarcane, bananas, and sulfur mines.^[17]^[68]^[69]

Modern History

Jericho's modern history is marked by Ottoman rule, British Mandate, Jordanian control, and the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. In the 16th century, it was incorporated into the Ottoman Empire, with indigo processing and agricultural taxes contributing to its economy.^[70]

Ottoman Period (16th-19th Century)

Descriptions from travelers like Laurent d'Arvieux in 1659 depict Jericho as a desolate town with fertile plains. By the 19th century, European scholars noted its status as an oasis, with a population of around 200-300 people. The male villagers were noted for engaging in Bedouin-style raiding alongside limited cultivation by women and children.^[74]^[75]

British Mandate Period (20th Century)

After World War I, Jericho came under British Mandate. The 1922 census recorded 1,029 inhabitants, predominantly Muslim with a Christian minority. An earthquake in 1927 caused significant damage, but the population grew to 1,693 by 1931. By 1945, the population reached 3,010, with extensive land use for citrus, bananas, and cereals. During WWII, the British built fortresses and rigged bridges with explosives.^[85]^[87]^[90]

Jordanian Period (1948-1967)

Following the 1948 Arab–Israeli War, Jericho came under Jordanian control. The Jericho Conference in 1948 proclaimed King Abdullah as King of all Palestine, leading to the formal annexation of the West Bank by Jordan in 1950. Jericho residents became Jordanian citizens. By 1961, the population was 10,166, mostly Muslim.^[95]^[96]

1967 and Aftermath

Jericho has been occupied by Israel since the Six-Day War of 1967. It was the first city handed over to Palestinian Authority control in 1994 under the Oslo Accords, with limited self-rule agreed upon in the Gaza–Jericho Agreement.^[98] The city is an enclave within Area A of the West Bank, surrounded by Area C under Israeli military control, leading to movement restrictions. The Jericho synagogue became a site of conflict and vandalism in 2000. In response to the Second Intifada, Israeli troops re-occupied Jericho, and a trench was built around parts of the city. Recent developments include the inauguration of a Presidential Guard Training Center in 2009 and the naming of a street after Aaron Bushnell in 2024.^[102]^[103]^[107]^[108]

Geography

Oasis in the Valley

Jericho is uniquely situated 258 meters (846 feet) below sea level, making it the lowest city in the world. It thrives as an oasis within the Wadi Qelt in the Jordan Valley. The vital Ein es-Sultan spring is a cornerstone of this fertility, producing an impressive 3.8 cubic meters (1,000 gallons) of water per minute. This abundant water source irrigates approximately 10 square kilometers (2,500 acres) of land through a network of channels, eventually flowing into the Jordan River, located about 10 kilometers (6 miles) away.^[6]^[17]^[109]

Important Bird Area

The region encompassing Jericho and its immediate surroundings, a site spanning 3,500 hectares (8,600 acres), has been designated an Important Bird Area (IBA) by BirdLife International. This recognition highlights its ecological significance, as it provides critical habitat for various bird populations, including black francolins, lanner falcons, lesser kestrels, and Dead Sea sparrows.^[110]

Climate

Jericho experiences a hot desert climate (BWh) according to the Köppen climate classification. Annual rainfall averages 204 mm (8.0 inches), primarily occurring during the winter and early spring months. Temperatures vary significantly throughout the year, with an average of 11 °C (52 °F) in January and a much warmer 31 °C (88 °F) in July. This combination of rich alluvial soil and plentiful spring water has historically made Jericho an exceptionally attractive location for settlement and agriculture.^[109]^[111]

Climate Data for Jericho

Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec	Year
Mean daily maximum °C (°F)	19.0 (66.2)	20.6 (69.1)	24.4 (75.9)	29.5 (85.1)	34.4 (93.9)	37.0 (98.6)	38.6 (101.5)	37.9 (100.2)	35.8 (96.4)	32.7 (90.9)	28.1 (82.6)	21.4 (70.5)	30.0 (86.0)
Daily mean °C (°F)	10.7 (51.3)	12.6 (54.7)	16.3 (61.3)	22.4 (72.3)	26.6 (79.9)	30.4 (86.7)	30.9 (87.6)	30.4 (86.7)	28.6 (83.5)	25.8 (78.4)	22.8 (73.0)	16.9 (62.4)	22.9 (73.2)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F)	4.4 (39.9)	5.9 (42.6)	9.6 (49.3)	13.6 (56.5)	18.2 (64.8)	20.2 (68.4)	21.9 (71.4)	21.1 (70.0)	20.5 (68.9)	17.6 (63.7)	16.6 (61.9)	11.6 (52.9)	15.1 (59.2)
Average precipitation mm (inches)	59 (2.3)	44 (1.7)	20 (0.8)	4 (0.2)	1 (0.0)	0 (0)	0 (0)	1 (0.0)	2 (0.1)	3 (0.1)	5 (0.2)	65 (2.6)	204 (8.0)
Average relative humidity (%)	77	81	74	62	49	50	51	57	52	56	54	74	61
Mean monthly sunshine hours	189.1	186.5	244.9	288.0	362.7	393.0	418.5	396.8	336.0	294.5	249.0	207.7	3,566.7
Mean daily sunshine hours	6.1	6.6	7.9	9.6	11.7	13.1	13.5	12.8	11.2	9.5	8.3	6.7	9.8

People

Population Trends

According to the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics (PCBS), Jericho's population was 14,674 in 1997. Palestinian refugees constituted a significant portion, making up 43.6% (6,393 individuals) of the residents. The city exhibits a youthful demographic profile, with nearly half (49.2%) of its inhabitants under the age of 20. Those between 20 and 44 years old comprised 36.2%, while individuals aged 45 to 64 accounted for 10.7%, and 3.6% were over 64. By the 2007 PCBS census, Jericho's population had grown to 18,346, and further to 20,907 in 2017.^[3]^[112]^[113]^[114]

Religious and Ethnic Composition

Historically, a 1945 survey by Sami Hadawi reported 3,010 inhabitants, with 94% being Arab and 6% Jewish.^[115] Today, the overwhelming majority of Jericho's population is Muslim. The Christian community constitutes a smaller, yet notable, presence, making up approximately 1% of the total population. Additionally, Jericho is home to a significant community of Black Palestinians, contributing to the city's diverse social fabric.^[116]^[117]

Economy

Economic Development

In 1994, a pivotal economic accord between Israel and Palestine laid the groundwork for Jericho's self-rule, enabling Palestinians to establish banks, collect taxes, and engage in international trade. This agreement was crucial for fostering local economic autonomy. Agriculture remains a cornerstone of Jericho's economy, with extensive banana groves flourishing around the city, leveraging its fertile soil and abundant water resources.^[99]^[118]

Agro-Industrial Park

A significant initiative aimed at boosting Jericho's economy is the Jericho Agro-Industrial Park. This public-private enterprise is designed to attract agricultural processing companies by offering financial concessions for leasing land within the park. The goal is to stimulate industrial growth, create employment opportunities, and enhance the value chain of agricultural products from the region, further solidifying Jericho's economic base.^[119]

Tourism

Attractions and Popularity

Jericho has emerged as a significant tourist destination, particularly popular among Palestinian visitors, a status it achieved by 2010 due to its historical sites and proximity to the Dead Sea.^[121] In 1998, a substantial $150 million casino-hotel complex was developed with the support of Yasser Arafat. While the casino component is currently closed, the hotel facilities remain operational, catering to guests seeking to explore the region's rich heritage and natural beauty.

Biblical & Christian Sites

Christian tourism is a primary source of income for Jericho, drawing pilgrims to several key sites:

Ein es-Sultan: Known as the Spring of Elisha, a vital water source with biblical connections.
Qasr al-Yahud: On the Jordan River, traditionally identified as the site of Jesus's baptism.
Mount of Temptation (Jebel Quruntul): The traditional location of Jesus's temptation, featuring the Greek Orthodox Monastery of the Temptation halfway up the mountain, accessible by cable car.^[99]
Sycamore Trees: Two trees are identified with the one mentioned in relation to Zacchaeus.
Deir Hajla: The Monastery of St. Gerasimos in the Jordan Valley.
Saint George Monastery: Located in Wadi Qelt above Jericho.

Archaeological Landmarks

Jericho's landscape is dotted with archaeological treasures that span millennia:

Tell es-Sultan: Home to Stone, Bronze, and Iron Age cities, including the ancient wall and Tower of Jericho.
Tulul Abu el-'Alayiq: Site of the Hasmonean and Herodian royal winter palaces.
Byzantine-period synagogues: Including the Shalom Al Yisrael Synagogue and the Na'aran synagogue.
Hisham's Palace (Khirbet al-Mafjar): An impressive Umayyad palatial complex.
Tawahin es-Sukkar: Remains of a Crusader sugar production facility.
Nabi Musa: A Mamluk and Ottoman shrine, traditionally believed to be the resting place of Moses.

Institutions

Schools

Jericho's educational landscape includes 22 state schools and several private institutions. A notable example is the Terra Santa School, established by Christian friars in 1925, which initially served 100 pupils. These institutions collectively cater to the educational needs of the city's young population, providing a foundation for future development.^[117]

Healthcare

In April 2010, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) initiated a significant renovation project for the Jericho Governmental Hospital, providing $2.5 million in funding. This investment underscores ongoing efforts to enhance healthcare infrastructure and services for the residents of Jericho and the surrounding region, ensuring access to modern medical facilities.^[122]

Sports

The city is home to the sports team Hilal Areeha, which competes in the West Bank First Division in association football. Their home games are played at the Jericho International Stadium, a facility capable of accommodating 15,000 spectators. This stadium serves as a hub for local sports and community events, reflecting the city's engagement in athletic pursuits.^[123]

Twin Cities

International Partnerships

Jericho maintains sister city relationships with numerous municipalities across the globe, fostering cultural exchange and international cooperation. These partnerships reflect Jericho's global connections and its role in broader international dialogues.

Alessandria, Italy (2004)
Campinas, Brazil (2001)
Eger, Hungary (2013)
Estación Central, Chile (2007)
Fez, Morocco (2014)
Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil (2012)
Iași, Romania (2003)
Ilion, Greece (1999)
Kragujevac, Serbia (2011)
Lærdal, Norway (1998)
Pisa, Italy (2000)
San Giovanni Valdarno, Italy (2004)
Santa Bárbara, Brazil (1998)
Al-Shuna al-Shamalyah, Jordan (2016)

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References

Retrieved 31 May 2022.

Deuteronomy 34:3

Ring et al., 1994, p. 367â370.

Smith's Bible Names Dictionary: Jericho. Retrieved 6 February 2017.

"The Pilgrimage of Arculf in the Holy Land", De Locis Sanctis as translated by Rev. James Rose MacPherson (W. London: BD. 24, Hanover Square, 1895), ch. I.11.

Jerome Murphy-O'Connor, The Holy Land: An Oxford Archaeological Guide from Earliest Times to 1700, Oxford University Press 2008, pp. 342â344.

al-Muqaddasi quoted in Le Strange, 1890, p. 39

al-Hamawi and Abu-l Fida quoted in Le Strange, 1890, p. 397

Singer, 2002, pp. 50, 52

Singer, 2002, p. 120

Singer, 2002, p. 126

Graham, 1836, p. 122

Robinson and Smith, 1841, vol. 2, p. 280

Titus Tobler, Topographie von Jerusalem und seinen Umgebungen, Berlin, 1853â1854, p. 642

Socin, 1879, p. 159

Hartmann, 1883, p. 124, noted 34 houses

Barron, 1923, Table VII, Sub-district of Jericho, p. 19

Barron, 1923, Table XIV, p. 45

Mills, 1932, p.45

Department of Statistics, 1945, p. 24

Government of Jordan, 1964, p. 13

Government of Jordan, Department of Statistics, 1964, pp. 115â116

Israel holds militant after siege 14 March 2006 BBC News

Hadawi, 1970, p.57

A full list of references for this article are available at the Jericho Wikipedia page

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Jericho: A Journey Through Millennia

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Overview 🌍

📍 Location and Significance

⏳ A Tapestry of Settlements

🌴 The City of Palm Trees

Etymology 📜

🌸 Fragrant Origins

🌙 Lunar Connections

🗣️ Arabic Adaptation

History 🏛️

⛏️ Early Excavations

🗿 Stone Age: Tell es-Sultan

Natufian Hunter-Gatherers (c. 10,000 BCE)

Pre-Pottery Neolithic A (PPNA, c. 9500–9000 BCE)

Pre-Pottery Neolithic B (PPNB, c. 7220–5850 BCE)

🏺 Bronze Age Flourishing

Early Bronze Age

Middle Bronze Age (Nigro 2016 Chronology)

Late Bronze Age (1450–1200 BC)

👑 Classical & Post-Classical Eras

Hasmonean and Herodian Periods

In the New Testament

Roman and Byzantine Periods

Early Muslim Period

Crusader, Ayyubid, and Mamluk Periods

🗺️ Modern History

Ottoman Period (16th-19th Century)

British Mandate Period (20th Century)

Jordanian Period (1948-1967)

1967 and Aftermath

Geography 🏞️

💧 Oasis in the Valley

🐦 Important Bird Area

☀️ Climate

Climate Data for Jericho

People 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

📊 Population Trends

🕌 Religious and Ethnic Composition

Economy 📈

🤝 Economic Development

🏭 Agro-Industrial Park

Tourism ✈️

🏨 Attractions and Popularity

🙏 Biblical & Christian Sites

🔍 Archaeological Landmarks

Institutions 🏫

📚 Schools

🏥 Healthcare

⚽ Sports

Twin Cities 🤝

🌐 International Partnerships

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

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Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

Location and Significance

A Tapestry of Settlements

The City of Palm Trees

Etymology

Fragrant Origins

Lunar Connections

Arabic Adaptation

History

Early Excavations

Stone Age: Tell es-Sultan

Bronze Age Flourishing

Classical & Post-Classical Eras

Modern History

Geography

Oasis in the Valley

Important Bird Area

Climate

People

Population Trends

Religious and Ethnic Composition

Economy

Economic Development

Agro-Industrial Park

Tourism

Attractions and Popularity

Biblical & Christian Sites

Archaeological Landmarks

Institutions

Schools

Healthcare

Sports

Twin Cities

International Partnerships

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice