Ubeidiya prehistoric site

Ubeidiya is an archaeological site near Beit Zera on the western bank of the Jordan River with multiple geological layers containing ancient human remains, animal bones, and stone tools. The excavated materials reveal how people lived and hunted in this region during an early period of human development.

The site was discovered in 1959 when agricultural workers from Kibbutz Afikim found it while preparing land near Yavneal Stream. This finding showed that human settlement in the region extended back much further than previously known.

The excavated artifacts document early human presence in the region dating back approximately 1.5 million years, marking one of Earth's oldest sites.

The original finds are now displayed at the Gordon House Museum in Degania Aleph, where visitors can see them. The museum is accessible and provides a clear overview of what was uncovered from this location.

Some religious scholars have connected this location with the biblical Garden of Eden, showing how important the site is for different interpretations of early human history. This connection demonstrates how archaeological places can hold spiritual meaning beyond their scientific value.