Tel Dor

Tel Dor is an archaeological tell on Israel’s Mediterranean coast identified with the ancient port city of Dor. The site preserves multi-period remains reflecting its long history as a coastal settlement and port.

Archaeological remains from Bronze Age Canaanite and Phoenician phases through Hellenistic and Roman periods are visible at the site. Visitors can observe the tell’s stratified remains, coastal features associated with the ancient harbour and areas conserved within the nearby national-park setting.

Dor served as a coastal port and settlement across multiple millennia, with evidence for Canaanite, Phoenician, Hellenistic and Roman activity. Excavations and surveys have revealed continuous occupation and maritime installations reflecting its role in Mediterranean trade.

Situated on Israel’s central-northern Mediterranean shore near the modern communities of Zikhron Yaakov and Caesarea, Tel Dor lies on the coastal plain south of Haifa.

• Park and harbour remains: Part of Dor National Park and the modern coastal reserve, with some underwater archaeological remains related to the ancient harbour.

What to See #

• Upper tell (acropolis): Upper tell (acropolis) - contains the major domestic and administrative remains from multiple periods and sits atop the mound visible from the coast.
• Lower town and harbour: Lower town and ancient harbour area - archaeological remains and shoreline features showing Dor's function as a Mediterranean port across the Bronze Age, Iron Age and Hellenistic periods.
• Hellenistic and Roman remains: Hellenistic and Roman remains - surviving structural foundations and artefacts attest to continuous occupation through Hellenistic, Roman and later periods.