Ancient Jericho/Tell es-Sultan

World Heritage Research

Discover scientific research and academic studies that deepen our understanding of Ancient Jericho/Tell es-Sultan from its history and significance to its conservation, management, and contemporary challenges.

• Archeoastronomia ricostruttiva nell'era dell'antico Egitto

  A groundbreaking archeoastronomical study redefines the chronology of ancient Egypt, from the Middle to New Kingdoms, by correcting a systematic error in traditional calculations of the Egyptian calendar. This error, previously deemed negligible, accumulates over 1500 years, causing a half-century discrepancy between historical records and astronomical observations. Using advanced software based on NASA's DE431 astronomical data, researchers verified the exact timing of celestial events such as the heliacal risings of Sirius at Heliopolis and recorded novilunies from 2000 to 1500 BCE. The findings align with radiocarbon dating and archeological evidence, providing precise dates for key historical events, including the reigns of Senusret III (1953 BCE), Amenhotep I (1613 BCE), and Thutmose III (1546 BCE). This reconstruction also offers new insights into the timing of the Hyksos expulsion by Ahmose I around 1620 BCE, potentially linking it to the biblical Exodus narrative. Additionally, the study suggests that the fall of ancient Jericho occurred around 1580 BCE, consistent with archeological data from Tell es-Sultan. The research integrates archeoastronomy, historical chronology, and source analysis, providing a multidisciplinary framework to refine the uncertain timeline of ancient Egypt.

  Galletti, C. (2026). Archeoastronomia ricostruttiva nell'era dell'antico Egitto. Zenodo. https://doi.org/10.5281/ZENODO.19414956

  View Publication Record | Read Publication

• Cranial Trephination Surgery in Ancient Times and Archaeological Remains in Israel

  Cranial trephination, one of the earliest documented surgical procedures, reveals sophisticated medical practices and ritual beliefs in ancient Israel. This study demonstrates the persistence of both circular and rectangular techniques from the Neolithic to early medieval periods, supported by archaeological evidence from sites like Jericho and Lachish. Textual sources, including the Talmudic Corpus and works by Hippocrates and Galen, highlight motivations ranging from relieving intracranial pressure to expelling spirits, showcasing iterative refinement in surgical instruments and understanding of head injuries. The research situates trephination at the intersection of empirical medicine, ritual, and intercultural transmission, advancing our knowledge of ancient neurosurgery in the Eastern Mediterranean.

  Dvorjetski, E. (2026). Cranial Trephination Surgery in Ancient Times and Archaeological Remains in Israel. Journal of Medical Research and Clinical Reviews. https://doi.org/10.67335/3070-6238.1013

  View Publication Record | Read Publication

• Reexposition of the Museum and Park Complex in Jericho. A New Look at Ancient History

  A groundbreaking reexposition of the Museum and Park Complex (MPC) in Jericho, the first such facility recreated outside Russia, offers a modernized perspective on ancient history. The project, part of a two-year research program led by RGGU, introduced expanded planning solutions that meet contemporary requirements while preserving historical significance. Key outcomes include an approved design, corporate identity development, and a 3D model for the MPC, enhancing educational engagement. Additionally, thesis work from UTSAD FII RGGU contributed innovative spatial designs, ensuring the complex's relevance in both academic and public contexts.

  Baranova, S. I., & Belyaev, L. A. (2026). Reexposition of the Museum and Park Complex in Jericho. A New Look at Ancient History. Podlinnik, (2), 120–156. https://doi.org/10.28995/3034-3224-2026-2-120-156

  View Publication Record | Read Publication

• The Earliest Inhabitants

  Ancient Jericho, one of the oldest continuously inhabited sites on Earth, reveals a complex layers of human occupation spanning millennia. Excavations at Tell es-Sultan have uncovered eleven successive cities built atop one another, providing unprecedented insights into the evolution of early human settlements in the region. The study highlights the presence of non-Semitic inhabitants during the later Stone Age, characterized by unique burial practices such as cremation and the construction of megalithic monuments like menhirs, cromlechs, and dolmens. These findings challenge traditional narratives about the earliest inhabitants of Palestine, suggesting a more diverse and sophisticated civilization than previously assumed. The research draws on extensive archaeological investigations conducted by prominent figures such as Flinders Petrie and James Macalister, integrating historical, religious, and scientific perspectives to reconstruct the site's rich history.

  Rappoport, A. S. (2025). The Earliest Inhabitants. History of Palestine, 34–50. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003617747-3

  View Publication Record | Read Publication

• Roman Decorative Stone Collections in the Kelsey Museum of Archaeology

  A comprehensive catalogue of Roman decorative stones, one of the largest and most varied outside Europe, reveals new insights into architectural decoration and design from ancient Mediterranean sites. The collection, housed in the Kelsey Museum of Archaeology at the University of Michigan, includes 700 colorful stones dating to the Roman period, many sourced from renowned structures like the Baths of Diocletian in Rome and the Palace of Herod in Jericho. The study traces the formation, archaeology, and history of each stone, offering a detailed resource for Roman archaeology, antiquities, and decorative arts. Rich photographs and essays derived from original collector notes enhance the catalogue's accessibility and scholarly value.

  Fant, J. C., Long, L. E., & McAlpine, L. J. (2024). Roman Decorative Stone Collections in the Kelsey Museum of Archaeology. https://doi.org/10.3998/mpub.11534228

  View Publication Record | Read Publication

• Brick Bc

  Archaeological evidence from Ancient Jericho/Tell es-Sultan reveals the use of sun-dried mud bricks dating back at least 10,000 years, marking one of the earliest known instances of brick construction. Excavated specimens display distinct Neolithic hand marks, providing tangible proof of early human engineering techniques in what is believed to be the world's oldest continuously inhabited town. The study highlights the significance of these findings in understanding prehistoric architectural practices and the development of settled communities.

  Woodforde, J. (2024). Brick BC. Bricks, 19–34. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003471158-3

  View Publication Record | Read Publication

• Bricks

  A comprehensive exploration of the history and significance of bricks, from ancient sun-dried mud bricks found in Jericho—likely the oldest town in the world—to modern brickmaking techniques. The study traces the evolution of brick manufacturing in Europe and America, with a focus on Britain up to the 1970s, highlighting unique properties such as those of the fletton brick. It examines the equipment, techniques, and labor involved in brick production, as well as their applications in diverse structures like garden walls, sewers, canals, railways, roads, and notable buildings such as Hampton Court and Regent’s Park terraces. The research provides a detailed account of brickmaking's cultural, architectural, engineering, and chemical significance.

  Woodforde, J. (2024). Bricks. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003471158

  View Publication Record | Read Publication