The Chalcolithic Temple at Ein Gedi is one of three chalcolithic temples that have come to light. In fact, two of them are in Israel while the third is located in modern Jordan. The impressive sanctuary complex is located above the springs that form the oasis of Ein Gedi. Towering high above the Dead Sea.
More About Chalcolithic Temple at Ein Gedi
The Chalcolithic Temple at Ein Gedi was surrounded by a wall and comprised an elaborate entrance chamber; additional rooms. In Addition, there was a courtyard with a basin for holy water or a place for a sacred tree. Lastly, there was a building containing a pedestal. Most probably for the god’s statue. Furthermore, the temple estimated period is 3,800 BCE – 4,500 BCE. Furthermore, the site was discovered as early as 1956 by archaeologist Yohanan Aharoni.
(Credit: Stéphanie Gromann – CC.BY-SA 3.0)
But the Systematic exploration of the temple started in 1962. during the excavations, no domestic ware nor remains of dwellings were found at the site. So that convinced the archaeologists to believe this was a regional sanctuary or a pilgrimage site for worshippers who lived far away. In addition, no villages dated to the Chalcolithic period were found near the temple. Also, its character and plan resemble the Chalcolithic sanctuary found in stratum XIX at Megiddo, confirming its identification as a temple.
Interesting Archaeological Finds
So within the temple, animal bones were found. In addition, potsherds, a clay statuette of a bull laden with a pair of churns and lots of ashes. Today’s items are on display at the Israel Museum in Jerusalem. These items found in the temple mean the niche served as a shrine. A round piece of white crystalline limestone, discovered at the back of the altar, may have served as the base for a statue of a deity.
(Credit: Stéphanie Gromann – CC.BY-SA 3.0)
On that note, it’s worth mentioning the hoard of unique Chalcolithic artifacts found in a grotto near the Wadi of Nahal Mishmar. The Site is also known as the “Cave of the Treasure.” So 12 km away, an astonishing hoard of 429 ritual objects was discovered. The objects were carefully wrapped in a woven mat concealed behind a large stone. Among the items found are: dozens of scepters; and mysterious crown-shaped things. Some archaeologists relate these items to the Temple at Ein Gedi.
(Credit: Oren Rosen – CC.BY-SA 3.0)
The Archaeologists also found benches made of stone. They stood adjacent to long walls, while the excavators found pits sunk into the floors along the short walls. These were determined to contain the remains of burnt bones; horns; pottery, and a vast quantity of ash. A piece of painted plaster indicates the walls were perhaps even painted and decorated. Similar to those from the Ghassulian-type site at Teleilat al-Ghassul in Jordan.
Directions How to Get to the Chalcalothic Temple at Ein Gedi
So you read this post, and now you want to check out the temple with your own eyes! What is the fastest way to get to Ein Gedi Nature Reserve? I would suggest taking Highway 90 till you reach Ein Gedi Nature Reserve. Once you get there, you should take the main trail till you get to David waterfall, then just follow the signs. Yes, it’s that simple!
