Israel consists of a spectacular coastline that stretches along the Mediterranean Sea with soft white sandy beaches highlighting the beauty of the towns and cities situated along the coast. Ashkelon is one such city with a beautiful coastline that lies 36 km from Tel Aviv in the southernmost coast of Negrev in Israel. Its history dates back to the Bronze Age and like Gaza, Ashdod, Ekron and Gath, Ashkelon is also built on the ruins of a former Philistine state. The modern Ashkelon was established from the old Arab town of al-Majdad. The city was also an important trade centre linking Syria and Mesopotamia with Egypt.
Earlier known as Asqana, the city is one of the most economically and culturally developed cities in Israel and also the eighth largest in the city. The most popular historical site in Ashkelon is the Ashkelon National Park, which is an extensive excavation site comprising of ancient ruins. The Canaanite Period City Gate dating back to 4,000 years ago and the impressive Roman statues from the Roman era that are a highlight of the site are some of the major attractions in the park. Apart from this there is a public building and the Crusader period fortification ruins that can be seen here.
Other archeological sites in the city include ruins of two Byzantine churches, coffins and graves from the Roman and Mamluk periods. The Ashkelon Museum and the Khan house historical artifacts of the various eras while an art gallery and a café are also found within the campus. Exhibitions, film shows and concerts are held here regularly. The city’s big mosque is also a well preserved structure.
As Ashkelon is a coastal city, it undoubtedly consists of the most lovely sandy beaches where individuals, couples and families can enjoy a relaxing day out. The Ashkelon Beach is the largest and comprises of restaurants, pubs, museums, fishing areas and even an amphitheatre. It is really a great place to enjoy with friends and family and is visited in large numbers both by the locals as well as international tourists.
The Ashkelon Water Park near the Delilah Beach is a truly enjoyable place to spend a family day out. It offers a variety of water activities and picnic spots that are wonderful for those traveling with children. Ashkelon has a fair climate with mild and cool summers and cold and dry winters. The best time to visit the city is during spring.
Photo by Vladimir Ravitch provided courtesy of Panoramio.com
Photo by SBGPartners.com provided courtesy of Panoramio.com
Photo by memkhes provided courtesy of Panoramio.com
Photo by lotsman provided courtesy of Panoramio.com
Photo by ipumilu provided courtesy of Panoramio.com