During the tour we will visit Tel Gezer and Tel Aphek, two key Middle–Late Bronze Age sites in the coastal plain and the central foothills. At Aphek, we will explore the Middle Bronze palatial complex and consider the reciprocal relationship between landscape and human activity: how landscapes shape societies, and how societies, in turn, reshape their landscapes.

Afterward, we will visit Migdal Tzedek, where we will explore the recently restored medieval fortress, now open to the public as a national park. From the viewpoint overlooking the Coastal Plain, we will discuss the strategic importance of ancient Aphek.

At Tel Gezer, we will meet Dr. Sam Wolff, who directed the archaeological excavations at the site. We will examine the city’s monumental fortifications and gate, as well as the famed Massebot (standing stones) temple. We will also visit the city’s water system, which was recently opened following significant excavation.