About
About Forge Dolmen
Forge Dolmen in Negev, Israel is a Roman (300 BCE–500 CE) megalithic attributed to Roman culture. Systematically investigated through ground-penetrating radar and coring, it presents a principal enclosure with necropolis. Construction employs mudbrick on stone socle and demonstrates distinct phasing. Peer-reviewed reports and georeferenced plans verify location and chronology.
Why it mattersKey Roman megalithic with stratified sequence and regional significance.
Open questions
Mysteries & theories
Mysteries
- 01Social hierarchy and elite control
- 02Water management and resilience
Theories
- 01Centralized storage and redistribution (Cunliffe)
- 02Ceremonial centre and pilgrimage focus
Theories are interpretations, not findings. The seal above tells you how much scholarly weight the place carries.
History
How it came to be
- Built
- c. 178 CE
- Period
- Roman (300 BCE–500 CE)
- Culture
- Roman
- Purpose
- Agricultural and hydraulic
- Excavation
- Unexcavated
c. 178 CE
Initial construction and primary occupation
c. 268 CE
Major enlargement and wall circuit added
c. 399 CE
Peak occupation and regional prominence
2013
Scientific excavation and conservation
On the ground
Structures & features
32.1788° N · 34.7562° E · 2781 m · 3 mapped features
Rock Art Panel
courtyardPrimary megalithic at Forge Dolmen — platform mound
32.1774° N · 34.7553° EOutlier Panel
entranceHydraulic feature — canal
32.1769° N · 34.7576° EBurial Cluster
gatewayAncillary necropolis associated with main monument
32.1787° N · 34.7545° E