El-Wad

El-Wad contains multiple chambers within Mount Carmel's limestone formations, extending deep into the mountain with natural rock formations and archaeological deposits.

Archaeological excavations initiated in the 1920s by Dorothy Garrod revealed stone tools, bone artifacts, and human remains dating back to the Upper Paleolithic period.

The discovery of ancient ornaments, shell beads, and decorated bone implements at El-Wad demonstrates the development of artistic expression in prehistoric communities.

The cave maintains a constant temperature throughout the year and requires specialized lighting equipment for visitors to examine the geological features and archaeological layers.

Researchers identified the first evidence of the Natufian culture at El-Wad, marking a transition period between nomadic hunting and permanent agricultural settlements.

Part of: Nahal Me'arot Nature Reserve

GPS coordinates: 32.67076,34.96626

Latest update: March 3, 2025 15:05