Hamat Gader

Hamat Gader is an archaeological site with hot springs in the Yarmouk River valley in the Northern District of Israel. The site includes the remains of Roman baths, a theater, and a synagogue, while hot water still rises from the ground today.

In the 2nd century, the Romans built a large bathing complex with a theater and a synagogue that remained in operation for several centuries. Several earthquakes later damaged the structures and eventually led to abandonment of the site.

The preserved mosaics show geometric patterns and inscriptions in several languages, reflecting how people from different communities bathed together. Visitors today see mainly the decorated floors of the former bathing halls, which once served as meeting spaces.

Access to the springs is through a modern thermal spa, while the archaeological excavations can be viewed separately. The area is flat and well developed, so visitors can easily move between the ruins and the water pools.

The water temperature reaches up to 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit) in some spots and the system has worked without interruption since ancient times. A marble chancel screen with a menorah relief is among the few preserved liturgical objects from that era.