Ashdod

Ashdod, an ancient city located in present-day Israel, has a history spanning over 3,700 years. Initially established as a fortified Canaanite city in the 17th century BCE, it became one of the prominent Philistine city-states during the Iron Age. Ashdod's strategic location on the Mediterranean coast facilitated its development into a significant maritime trade center. The city's importance continued into the classical period, being known as Azotus under Hellenistic rule and later annexed to the Roman province of Syria. The Byzantine era saw it become a bishopric, although its prominence waned in the subsequent centuries. Archaeologically, Ashdod offers insights into various periods with its domestic structures, fortifications, religious sites, and remnants of ancient harbors.