Abstract
This paper argues that the Iron Age site of Khirbet Qeiyafa was a sacred cultic compound frequented by pilgrims rather than a proper fortified settlement. It is suggested that the casemate wall surrounding the site served as a compound wall demarcating the cultic precinct. These conclusions are based on the fact that the walled site had two gates, as well as on the size of the settled area, the massiveness of the wall, and the finds associated with cult uncovered in the excavations.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 49-65 |
| Number of pages | 17 |
| Journal | Israel Exploration Journal |
| Volume | 72 |
| Issue number | 1 |
| State | Published - 2022 |