In a recent archaeological expedition in the Kiryat Gat region, the Israeli Antiquities Authority made a groundbreaking discovery. Prior to the laying of a water pipeline, an ancient gate estimated to be over 5,000 years old was unearthed. This gate, part of a fortification system, holds paramount significance in understanding the inception of urbanization across the Levant.
Found near the industrial zone of Kiryat Gat, in Tel Erani, this gate stands as the oldest identified in Israel's territory. Over the past month, the excavation, funded by the Mekorot company, aimed to explore the area before the construction of the water line. The discoveries from this dig include the gate and parts of a fortification system, both dating back to the Early Bronze Age, roughly around 3,300 BC. Such monumental structures are emblematic of the commencement of urban development not just in Israel but throughout the southern Levant.
Interestingly, up until this significant discovery, the oldest gate known in Israel was located in Tel Arad, believed to be constructed about 300 years after this recently unearthed gate. The gate's remnants, standing approximately 1.5 meters high, comprise a corridor made of substantial stones leading into the ancient city. Flanking the entrance, two towers constructed of large stones with alternating layers of mud bricks were identified. This gate serves as a continuation of the city wall revealed in earlier excavations.
Discovery of Israel's oldest gate resets clock on local urbanization by centurieshttps://t.co/HD7IlwSHOx
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Emily Bishop, who led the excavation for the Antiquities Authority, shared her excitement, stating, "This discovery is monumental. It's the first time we have found a gate from the Early Bronze Age of such vast dimensions. The construction of the gate and walls required significant resources – transporting stones from afar, manufacturing bricks, and erecting the fortifications. This wasn’t a mere task for a handful of people. The fortifications indicate a level of societal organization which points directly to the dawn of urban living."
5,500-Year-Old Gate Uncovered in Kiryat Gat - @JewishPress - https://t.co/pPqO8YmDyx pic.twitter.com/uXsciAxuRI
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Martin-David Pasternak, an expert on the Bronze Age at the Antiquities Authority, further elaborated on the significance of the gate. He posited that, "This majestic gate likely served as the primary access point for all — whether a traveler, trader, or invader. Not only did it offer tangible security to the settlement, but it also symbolized the power and sophistication of its inhabitants. The gate was a statement, possibly even to Egypt, which was on the cusp of becoming a vast empire under King Narmer at that time." Pasternak also noted that in a later phase of the Early Bronze Age, the Egyptians made Tel Erani their home, utilizing this very gate.
