Archaeoseismic Evidence of Two Neolithic (7,500-6,000 B.C.) Earthquakes at Tell es-Sultan, Ancient Jericho, Dead Sea Fault

Research at Tell es-Sultan, the site of ancient Jericho, reveals archaeoseismic evidence of two significant earthquakes during the Neolithic period (7,500–6,000 B.C.). These findings provide a rare glimpse into seismic activity along the Dead Sea Fault, offering insights into the region's geological history. The study analyzed seismites—deformation features in sediments—and faults to reconstruct past earthquake events. Additionally, damaged speleothems from nearby caves were examined to further support the palaeoseismic record. This work contributes to understanding the frequency and impact of earthquakes in the Dead Sea basin during a critical period of human settlement.

Alfonsi, L., Cinti, F. R., Di Mauro, D., & Marco, S. (2012). Archaeoseismic Evidence of Two Neolithic (7,500-6,000 B.C.) Earthquakes at Tell es-Sultan, Ancient Jericho, Dead Sea Fault. Seismological Research Letters, 83(4), 639–648. https://doi.org/10.1785/0220110144