The Philistine cities of Ashkelon and Ashdod

A Tour of the Philistine Cities – Ashdod and Ashkelon

We will set out for a fascinating day trip following two of the five Philistine cities mentioned in the Bible—Ashdod and Ashkelon. These ancient cities, which experienced periods of prosperity, destruction, and conquest, have been revived and renewed in the State of Israel.

The tour is intended for Gadi’s Ramblers’ Club—senior citizens—guided by Ahab and accompanied by Asheret.

Tour Program

Ad Halom Bridges

We will begin the day at the Ad Halom Bridges site over the Lachish River. We will hear about the importance of the location and the battles that took place here during the War of Independence, at the point where the Egyptian army was stopped on its way north.

Ashdod-Yam Fortress

We will visit the remains of the ancient fortress located on the seashore and learn about Ashdod’s history through the various periods.

Jonah Hill

We will ascend to the observation point on Jonah Hill, the highest point in Ashdod. We will look out over the city, the coastline, and the Port of Ashdod—one of the largest ports in the eastern Mediterranean.

The Corinne Mamane Museum of Philistine Culture

We will learn about the world of the Philistines, their way of life, material culture, and connection to the southern coastal cities during the biblical period.

The Lachish River and Estuary

We will walk along the well-maintained promenade of the Lachish River, as far as the area where it flows into the sea, and learn about the river’s rehabilitation process and the urban nature that has developed around it.

Ashkelon National Park

We will continue to Ashkelon and tour the national park, which preserves the remains of the ancient city. We will learn about Ashkelon’s history from the Canaanite period, through the days of the Philistines and the classical periods, to modern times.

Nabi Hussein

We will arrive at a hidden and intriguing site, considered one of the holiest and least-known places in the country. We will hear about the traditions associated with the site and its transformations over the generations.

Ashkelon Beach Promenade

We will visit the Sarcophagi Courtyard (if open on Saturday) and take a walk along Ashkelon Beach. Along the way, we will also learn about the Maqam of Sheikh Awad, further evidence of the sacred traditions that existed in the area.

A day of archaeology, history, biblical stories, military heritage, nature, and breathtaking views—between the Philistine past and today’s Israeli coastal cities.

Duration: 3 hours
Target audience: Senior citizens
Cost: 250 NIS per person, including guiding, site entrance fees, and transportation