Located in northern Israel and close to the Lebanese border, the Tel Kedesh archaeological site was once a Phoenician and Hellenistic city. The site is mainly known for its Roman period temple, which is dedicated to the Phoenician god ‘Baalshemin.’ Next to the shrine are two stone burial coffins (sarcophagi). Religious Jews associate them with the tombs of Barak and Deborah. Excavations conducted in Tel Kedesh in 1999 uncovered a Hellenistic period administration building with over 2000 seal impressions (bullae). This is a testimony to an extensive archive once kept in this structure.

Touring Tel Kedesh

Tel Kedesh is located along Route 899, about 1500 feet from the Lebanese border. A visit to the site can be combined with a visit to the Misgav-Am lookout and a scenic drive along the Lebanese border, one of Israel’s most beautiful and lush regions.

A tour of Tel Kedesh can be combined with a day tour in the north.