Aphek

Why it mattersVia Maris Yarkon pass; Philistine encampment; Antipatris of Paul.

Theories are interpretations, not findings. The seal above tells you how much scholarly weight the place carries.

Built

c.3500 BCE

Period

EB to Ottoman (c.3500 BCE–1917 CE; peak Canaanite–Philistine–Herod 3000 BCE–74 CE)

Culture

Canaanite → Philistine → Israelite → Philistine → Hellenistic → Herodian (Antipatris)

Builders

Canaanite kings → Herod the Great

Purpose

Settlement and ceremonial centre

Abandoned

1917 CE

Rediscovered

1935 (Garstang)

Excavation

Excavated

1. c.3400 BCE

   Canaanite governor's residence

2. c.1050 BCE

   Philistine camp vs Saul (1 Sam 4)

3. c.9 BCE

   Herod builds Antipatris for father Antipater

4. 1935

   Garstang and Kochavi excavations

• Canaanite Palace and Gorget Hoard (3400 BCE)

  palace

  Early Bronze governor's palace with gold gorget and Bilu figurine hoard

  32.1003° N · 34.9302° E

• Herodian Fortress (Antipatris) and Roman Dam

  fortification

  Herod's ashlar fortress (100×100 m) and Roman spring dam on Yarkon

  32.0996° N · 34.9303° E

• Crusader Castle Mirabel (Upper Fort)

  fortification

  Crusader vaulted castle over Herodian podium, 12th c.

  32.1005° N · 34.9296° E