Yavne-Yam

Yavne-Yam is an archaeological site at Palmachim Beach in Israel where ancient ruins, walls, and harbor remains lie beneath layers of sand. The remains show the structure of an old port town that spread across a large area along the Mediterranean shoreline.

The place developed around 4000 years ago as a port town and served many ancient civilizations over time. Canaanites, Phoenicians, and Romans used it across many centuries before settlement ended in the Middle Ages.

Excavations here revealed Roman bathhouses, Byzantine mosaics, and pottery fragments showing that Jewish, Christian, and Samaritan communities lived side by side in the same place. These findings show how different religious groups shared the same settlement over time.

This site connects to the adjacent beach area and is open to regular visits. Visitors should bring beach shoes or sandals and be prepared for sun exposure, as there is little shade on the grounds.

The ancient harbor relied on natural reef formations to protect it from waves. Underwater research shows that ships and trade goods from different historical periods have been found and studied here.

Location: Gan Raveh Regional Council

GPS coordinates: 31.92278,34.69333

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:27