Tur Shimon, Archaeological site in Judean Hills, Israel
Tur Shimon is an archaeological site in the Judean Hills that rises as a cone-shaped mountain providing natural fortification for ancient settlements. The elevated location made it an attractive place for communities seeking protection and long-term habitation.
The site was first settled in the 2nd century before the common era and remained inhabited through Hellenistic and Roman times. Archaeological investigations in the 1990s documented these occupation phases by studying pottery and architectural remains.
Ancient inhabitants of Tur Shimon maintained large agricultural operations, producing 300 sealed jars of summer produce weekly according to rabbinic literature.
Access is mainly from the southern slope via footpaths branching from regional highway 3866 near Moshav Nes Harim. Visitors should bring sturdy shoes and water since the climb is steep and exposed to sun.
The site contains an 80-meter tunnel system and several rock-cut cisterns that reveal sophisticated engineering. These water systems and remains of olive presses show how advanced techniques allowed early inhabitants to thrive in the mountain terrain.
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