Tel Hazor is the largest archaeological tel in Israel and one of the most important ancient cities in the biblical world. Covering over 200 acres at its peak, Hazor was described in the Bible as “the head of all those kingdoms” (Joshua 11:10) and appears in Egyptian, Babylonian, and Assyrian records as a major center of power and trade. UNESCO designated it a World Heritage Site in 2005, and yet most tourists drive right past it.
A Canaanite Superpower
In the Bronze Age, Hazor was the largest city in Canaan, with a population estimated at 20,000, enormous by ancient standards. The city controlled the trade routes between Egypt and Mesopotamia and maintained diplomatic contacts with the great powers of the age. Letters from Hazor have been found in the archives of Mari in Syria, and the city appears in the Egyptian Execration Texts.
Joshua’s Conquest
According to the Book of Joshua, the Israelites defeated the Canaanite king Jabin of Hazor and burned the city. Archaeologists have found a massive destruction layer dating to the 13th century BCE that is consistent with this account, though the exact identity of the destroyers remains debated.
Solomon and the Israelite City
The Bible lists Hazor, along with Megiddo and Gezer, as one of the three cities fortified by King Solomon. Excavations have uncovered impressive Israelite fortifications, including a six-chambered gate identical in plan to gates found at Megiddo and Gezer, one of the most debated and significant architectural parallels in biblical archaeology.
The Water System
Like Megiddo, Hazor features a remarkable water system. A deep shaft and tunnel were carved through the bedrock to reach groundwater, ensuring the city’s water supply during siege. Visitors can descend into the system and experience the scale of the engineering firsthand.
Visit with Hoshen Tours
Tel Hazor is essential for anyone interested in biblical archaeology. Hoshen Tours pairs it with the Hula Valley, Tel Dan, and the upper Galilee countryside.