Jordan River and Bet She’an

A beautiful spot on the Jordan River.

Beit She’an is believed to be one of the oldest cities in the region and one of the most extensive archaeological sites in Israel, with some of the best preserved ruins in the Middle East. It has played an important role in history due to its geographical location at the junction of the Jordan River valley and the Jezreel valley.

A model of the former city under Roman rule and the magnificent remains

Part of its legend lies with the biblical story of King Saul, who in 1004BC was defeated by the Philistine army. His three sons were killed in battle and, to avoid capture, Saul fell on his sword. The Philistines, in their triumph, took Saul and his sons and hung them on the Bet She’an walls!

Based on these events, David who succeeded Saul, wrote a memorable lament … “How the mighty have fallen..”

The long mosaic covered pathway was named “cardo” in Roman times and was the sidewalk

The baths and the heating system under where the floor would have been

Apart from the Philistines, Egyptians, Israelites, Greeks and Romans ruled and lived here. During the Roman period it was known as Scythopolis and was a leading city in the area. From the 4th century until 749, when it was destroyed by an earthquake, it was a flourishing Christian city with churches and a bishop.

Our morning ended with a delicious lunch served at a small farm overlooking Jericho – the lowest city on earth at about 1000feet below sea level.