Kal'at Al Mina, Medieval coastal fortification in Ashdod, Israel.
Kal'at Al Mina is a medieval coastal fortress near Ashdod with a rectangular shape, four corner towers, and two semicircular gate structures. The walls reach heights of about 6 to 7 meters and enclose an area of roughly 35 by 55 meters.
The fortress was built during the Umayyad period under Caliph Abd al-Malik ibn Marwan in the late 7th century. It was constructed partly using stones and materials from earlier Byzantine structures that had occupied the same location.
The site's name comes from Arabic, meaning 'harbor of Azdud', reflecting its maritime importance to the ancient port city. Visitors can still sense this trading role today when walking among the ruins by the shore.
The site is best visited during warmer months when weather is mild and coastal views remain clear. It is advisable to wear proper footwear since the terrain is uneven and still undergoing archaeological excavation.
Excavations from 2017 uncovered remains of an early Christian basilica connected to women in leadership roles. The burial sites there also suggest a serious disease outbreak that once struck the ancient community.
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