Beth Shean

Beth Shean was one of the largest and most important cities of this country at different times in its history. During the Late Bronze Age (sixteenth to twelfth centuries BCE), when it occupied only the area of the high mound of ancient Beth Shean, it was the main Egyptian outpost in Canaan. It was held for some time by the Philistines, later becoming a major administrative center in the kingdom of Israel (tenth to eight centuries BCE). In the Hellenistic period (from the fourth century BCE on) the limited area of the mound was no longer sufficient, and the city expanded into the valley around Nahal Harod. Its name was now changed to Nysa, after the nurse of Dionysos, the Greek god of wine, who was worshiped there; it was also known as Scythopolis, that is, city of the Scythians.

In recent years the excavations at Beth Shean have become the most extensive anywhere in Israel. The center of the Roman-Byzantine city is gradually coming to light, and in it a variety of contemporary public buildings: a theater for dramatic performances; and an amphitheater in the south of the city, where gladiatorial contests were held, especially in the Roman period. Between the theater and the mound several long, stone-paved, colonnaded streets have been uncovered, flanked by covered sidewalks and shops. North of the theater and the central colonnaded street was a large bath building, which has been excavated in its entirety. It provided hot baths, mainly for recreational purposes. In front of the building was a large courtyard paved with mosaics, where visitors could bathe in cold pools and engage in athletics. Mention should also be made of the city square (forum) and the nearby buildings: a basilica that was used, among other things, as a local courthouse, a temple gods, a nymphaeum (fountain) and some large structures of as yet unknown nature, which undoubtedly enhanced the beauty of the city.

During the Roman period Beth Shean was a pagan city, but most of its population in the Byzantine era (fourth century to early seventh) was Christian, as evidenced by the monasteries found there. However, there were several minority communities in the city, among them Jews and Samaritans, whose synagogues were unearthed many years ago.

After the Arab conquest Beth Shean continued to exist for approximately one more century, until an earthquake destroyed the magnificent city in seconds in 749. Columns, stone lintels, masonry arches and stone walls collapsed, remaining where they had fallen until re-exposed by the archaeologist's spade.