Discovering Tel Gezer: Where History Meets Nature in the Heart of Israel
- Ofra Morashty
- 12 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Nestled between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem lies a quiet hill that holds stories from thousands of years ago. Welcome to Tel Gezer – an ancient city, a national park, and a hidden gem for history lovers, nature seekers, and photographers alike.
What Is Tel Gezer?
Tel Gezer is an archaeological site and national park located near the modern city of Ramla in central Israel. It was one of the most important cities of ancient Canaan and later became a strategic site in the kingdoms of Israel and Judah. Mentioned multiple times in the Bible, Tel Gezer once stood as a mighty fortified city guarding the coastal highway.
A Walk Through Time
As you walk along the trails of Tel Gezer, you're not just stepping on stones—you’re walking through 5,000 years of history. The ruins include:
• Massive city walls from the Canaanite period
• A well-preserved water system believed to be from the 2nd millennium BCE
• The famous “Solomonic Gate” — believed by some to date from the time of King Solomon
• A row of ancient standing stones (Massebot) which may have served as a Canaanite high place for worship
Biblical references to Gezer are found in the books of Joshua, Kings, and Chronicles. One notable mention includes the city being given as a dowry to pharaoh's daughter by the Pharaoh of Egypt, when she married Solomon (1 Kings 9:15-17):
"Here is the account of the forced labor King Solomon conscripted to build the Lord’s temple, his own palace, the terraces, the wall of Jerusalem, and Hazor, Megiddo and Gezer. Pharaoh king of Egypt had attacked and captured Gezer. He had set it on fire. He killed its Canaanite inhabitants and then gave it as a wedding gift to his daughter, Solomon’s wife. And Solomon rebuilt Gezer".
At Tel Gezer, the 'Gezer Calendar' was found - the oldest Hebrew inscription discovered to date, which details the agricultural work done throughout the year.
Nature and Views
Tel Gezer isn’t just for history buffs. Its elevated position offers sweeping views of the Shephelah region and the Judean Hills. In spring, the site is dotted with many daisies. It's a paradise for photographers capturing the play of light on ancient stones or the vibrant bursts of seasonal blooms.
In the deep cave of the water factory, there are many bats that can be clearly heard by anyone who arrives there.
Why Visit Tel Gezer?
• Authentic biblical site with fascinating archaeology
• Scenic trails and panoramic photo opportunities
• Family-friendly outing with educational value
• Peaceful alternative to the more crowded historical sites
Tips for Visiting
• Best time to visit: Spring (March–May) for flowers and mild weather
• What to bring: Water, sunscreen, hat, and camera
• Access: The site is open to the public and free to enter; parking is available nearby
Final Thoughts
Tel Gezer may not be as famous as Jerusalem or Masada, but it offers something unique—a quiet, reflective space where you can touch the past and soak in Israel’s natural beauty. Whether you’re a photographer looking for an atmospheric shoot, a traveler exploring off the beaten path, or a student of biblical history, Tel Gezer is a place worth discovering.
my video - cycling from Latrun to Tel Gezer:
you can visit my nature photography art:
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