Tel Hazor Archaeological Site

Tel Hazor is a major archaeological tell in northern Israel that preserves a long sequence of Canaanite and Israelite occupation and is recognised as one of the largest ancient urban centres in the region.

Excavations have exposed monumental remains including a Canaanite palace and gate complex and later Iron Age fortifications and public buildings, demonstrating the site’s long-term urban character. The mound and its surrounding sites were inscribed as part of a UNESCO World Heritage listing for significant biblical-era tells.

Tel Hazor is located in the Upper Galilee/Hula Valley area of northern Israel and forms a prominent archaeological and interpretive site for Bronze and Iron Age Levantine studies.

• Size and UNESCO status: Tel Hazor is the largest archaeological mound in northern Israel and part of the UNESCO World Heritage inscription that groups major biblical tells.
• Archaeological significance: Excavations have revealed substantial Bronze and Iron Age strata including monumental architecture, fortifications and a complex water system.

What to See#

• Canaanite palace and gate: A well-preserved Canaanite gate complex and palace remains illustrate the site’s urban plan in the Middle Bronze Age.
• Israelite city remains: Iron Age and Israelite-period remains include fortifications, domestic quarters and public structures uncovered in multiple excavation seasons.

• Visit Tel Hazor early in the day to avoid heat and to have better light for photographing the exposed tell and the remains of the city's defensive structures.
• Combine Hazor with nearby northern Galilee sites-Banias (Caesarea Philippi), Tel Dan and the Hula Valley can form a single, efficient day loop that adds historical and natural context to the visit.
• Follow the raised walkways and explanatory panels across the mound to see both the Canaanite and later Israelite layers-walking the full circuit helps you understand the site's layout rather than only viewing the main gate area.