Looking from above onto the Elah Valley in the Judean lowlands lies Khirbet Qeiyafa, an archaeological enigma shrouded in history. Unearthed in 2007, this ancient fortress city boasts impressive fortifications – a 700-meter-long wall built with massive stones – and covers a large area in todays nature filled hills.

The exact origins of Khirbet Qeiyafa are hotly debated. Some archaeologists believe it might be the biblical city Sha’arayim (meaning “Two Gates” due to the discovered entryways) or Neta’im.  They even propose it could be linked to King David himself, suggesting a large central structure served as an administrative building during his reign. This theory hinges on dating the site to the early Iron Age (10th century BCE), a period overlapping with the biblical timeline of David’s kingdom.

However, this claim isn’t universally accepted.  Other scholars argue the fortress could have been built by North Israelites, Philistines, or by the Canaanites. And Khirbet Qeiyafa’s story doesn’t end there.  After its initial abandonment, the site was surprisingly resettled in later periods, even experiencing a Hellenistic-era facelift where its fortifications were renewed. Finally, a luxurious villa rose from the ruins during the Byzantine period, showcasing the enduring settlment of this ancient location.

So, who built Khirbet Qeiyafa and for what purpose? The mystery continues to intrigue archaeologists and travellers alike. It’s beautiful location and natural surroundings make it a unique and off the beaten road experience.