Ancient Jericho: City of Palms

Jericho, known in Arabic as Ariha ("Fragrance"), is a city located in the West Bank, near the Jordan River. It is widely considered to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with archaeological evidence of settlement dating back to 9000 BCE.

Often called the "City of Palms" in the Bible, Jericho is an oasis in the Jordan Valley, situated well below sea level. Its abundant springs and fertile soil have attracted settlers for millennia, making it a cradle of civilization.

Jericho is famous in the biblical narrative as the first city conquered by the Israelites under Joshua, who marched around the city walls until they crumbled. It is also the setting for several events in the New Testament, including Jesus healing blind beggars and his encounter with Zacchaeus the tax collector.

The archaeological site of Tell es-Sultan (Ancient Jericho) reveals layers of history spanning thousands of years. Excavations have uncovered ancient walls, towers, and dwellings that offer a glimpse into the lives of the city's earliest inhabitants. Nearby, the Hisham's Palace, an 8th-century Umayyad desert castle, showcases stunning mosaics and architectural grandeur.