Tel Zayit

Tel Zayit is an archaeological tell located in the Shephelah region of Israel, revealing evidence of human settlement during the Late Bronze Age and Early to Middle Iron Age. The site has experienced significant historical events, including two destructive fires, one around 1200 BCE and another in the 9th century BCE, potentially linked to Hazael of Aram. The site is notable for the discovery of the Zayit Stone, a significant find that possibly contains one of the oldest known abecedaries, dating to the 10th or 9th century BCE. This discovery contributes to our understanding of early alphabetic writing in the region. Tel Zayit provides valuable insights into the ancient urbanization and cultural exchanges in the Shephelah during these periods.