Jericho: A Short History of One of the World's Oldest Towns
In the Jordan Valley, below sea level and surrounded by desert, lies a green oasis of palm trees. This is Jericho, often described as one of the oldest continuously inhabited towns on Earth.
More than 10,000 years
Archaeologists have found evidence of settlement at Tell es-Sultan, the ancient mound of Jericho, going back more than 10,000 years. Its stone tower, built in the Neolithic period, is one of the oldest known monumental structures in the world. Tell es-Sultan was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2023.
Hisham's Palace
Just north of the town are the ruins of Hisham's Palace, an Umayyad palace complex from the 8th century. Its bathhouse holds one of the largest and finest mosaic floors in the region, including the famous Tree of Life mosaic.
City of palms
Thanks to its springs and warm climate, Jericho has long been known for its fruit: dates, bananas, citrus and vegetables. Palestinian Medjool dates from the Jordan Valley are sold across Europe, including in British supermarkets during Ramadan.
Jericho today
Today Jericho is a small Palestinian city with markets, farms and a steady flow of visitors in the mild winter months. It is a place where very old history and everyday life sit side by side.
Our Triangle Watermelon designs, bright and simple, are made for sunny days like those in Jericho.
FAQ
+How old is Jericho?
There is evidence of settlement at Jericho going back more than 10,000 years, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited towns in the world.
+What is Tell es-Sultan?
It is the ancient mound of Jericho, with remains including a Neolithic stone tower. It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2023.
+What is Hisham's Palace known for?
Its 8th-century Umayyad ruins include a large mosaic floor with the famous Tree of Life.
+What is Jericho famous for growing?
Jericho is known for dates, especially Medjool dates, as well as bananas and citrus fruit.
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