Israel Day 4/9: Beit She'an

Beit She'an is a extensive and well-preserved ruins. The view from when you first enter the park is impressive but not nearly as much as the view from the top of the tell, 260 feet up. So what did we do as soon as Greg was done giving instructions??? Make our way to the top as quickly as possible!

a three-dimensional map of the site

almost to the top...

At the top of the tell is the original city of Beit She'an with 18 levels of structures dating back to 4000 BC. Because of its location where the Jordan Valley and Jezreel Valley meet, it has had strategic importance for years and has been occupied by the Canaanites, Egyptians, and Greeks. 

It's mention in the Bible dates back to 1004 BC when King Saul was defeated by the Philistines and he and his three sons' bodies were carried back to the city and hung from the wall of the city. 

The Romans conquered the city in 64 AD, expanded the city to the foot of the hill and renamed it Scythopolis. It was the capital of the Decapolis and at its peak was the home to about 40,000 until it was destroyed by an earthquake in 749 AD. 

While it was known in Roman times for it's linen production, it is now known for its large row of open public toilets. LOL

But whatever it is known for, the ruins are spectacular and definitely have the "WOW!" factor!