The Tower of Jericho refers to an ancient structure associated with the archaeological site of Tell es-Sultan, located near the modern city of Jericho in the West Bank. Tell es-Sultan is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history spanning thousands of years. The tower is often mentioned in historical and biblical contexts.

Key features and information about the Tower of Jericho:

1. Location:
   • The Tower of Jericho is part of the broader archaeological site of Tell es-Sultan, which is situated near the modern city of Jericho in the West Bank, Palestine.
2. Ancient Jericho:
   • Jericho is known as one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world, with evidence of settlement dating back to the Pre-Pottery Neolithic A period (circa 9600 BCE).
3. Tower Construction:
   • The Tower of Jericho is believed to have been a defensive structure built during the Early Bronze Age, around 8000 BCE. It was constructed using a technique called “revetment walls,” where stone slabs were set against an earthen embankment.
4. Significance in Archaeology:
   • The Tower of Jericho is significant in archaeological terms as it provides insights into the city’s fortification systems and early urban planning. It is considered one of the earliest examples of a defensive tower.
5. Archaeological Excavations:
   • Extensive archaeological excavations have been conducted at Tell es-Sultan, revealing multiple layers of occupation and various structures dating to different periods. The tower and the city’s fortifications have been subjects of study.
6. Biblical References:
   • Jericho is mentioned in the Bible in the context of the Israelites’ conquest of the city. According to the biblical narrative, the walls of Jericho miraculously collapsed after the Israelites marched around the city for seven days, blowing trumpets.
7. City Walls:
   • In addition to the tower, the ancient city of Jericho had defensive walls. The city walls are notable for their construction and have been a subject of interest for researchers studying ancient fortifications.
8. Strategic Location:
   • Jericho’s location near key trade routes and water sources contributed to its historical importance. The city’s strategic position made it a focal point for various cultures throughout the millennia.
9. Neolithic Jericho:
   • The tower is associated with the later periods of Jericho’s history, but the site also contains remains from the Neolithic period, including the world’s oldest known protective wall and a stone tower from approximately 8000 BCE.
10. Ongoing Research:
    • Research and excavations at Tell es-Sultan are ongoing, and new discoveries continue to provide valuable information about the site’s long history and the development of human civilization in the region.

The Tower of Jericho, along with the broader archaeological site of Tell es-Sultan, contributes to our understanding of ancient urbanization, architecture, and defensive strategies in the Near East. It is a key site for researchers exploring the early stages of human settlement and cultural development in the region.