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Jericho

Jericho, nan, West Bank

Jericho, located in the West Bank, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history that stretches back over 10,000 years. Nestled in the Jordan Valley, Jericho is often referred to as the …

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Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Jericho.

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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Jericho.

Currency

₪ | ILS | Israeli New Shekel

Population

20907.0

Languages

Arabic, Arabic, Hebrew, English

Average weather

Jericho

Jan

18°8°

Feb

20°9°

Mar

23°11°

Apr

28°15°

May

33°19°

Jun

36°22°

Jul

37°24°

Aug

37°24°

Sep

35°22°

Oct

31°19°

Nov

26°14°

Dec

20°10°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Jericho.

What people love

Jericho, located in the West Bank, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, making it a fascinating destination for travelers interested in history, archaeology, and culture. Here are some pros of traveling to Jericho:

Historical Significance: Jericho is renowned for its historical and archaeological significance. It is often referred to as the "City of Palms" and is believed to be over 10,000 years old, making it one of the earliest continuous settlements in history. Visitors can explore ancient ruins and gain insights into early human civilization.
Archaeological Sites: The city is home to numerous archaeological sites, including the ancient Tell es-Sultan, which is considered the oldest part of Jericho. The site contains layers of settlements dating back to the Neolithic period. Other significant sites include the ruins of Hisham's Palace, an important Umayyad palace with intricate mosaics.
Religious Significance: Jericho holds religious importance for several faiths. It is mentioned in the Bible, particularly in the story of Joshua and the Battle of Jericho. Visitors can explore sites such as the Mount of Temptation, where it is believed Jesus was tempted by the devil, and the Monastery of the Temptation located on the mountain.
Natural Beauty: The city is situated in the Jordan Valley, near the Dead Sea, providing stunning natural landscapes. The surrounding area offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the unique desert environment.
Cultural Experience: Traveling to Jericho provides a chance to experience Palestinian culture and hospitality. Visitors can enjoy local cuisine, traditional crafts, and the vibrant local markets.
Proximity to Other Destinations: Jericho's location makes it a convenient base for exploring other significant sites in the region, such as the Dead Sea, the Jordan River, and nearby cities like Jerusalem and Bethlehem.

Overall, Jericho offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a compelling destination for travelers interested in exploring ancient civilizations and experiencing local culture.

What to know

Traveling to Jericho in the West Bank can be an exciting experience due to its rich history and cultural significance. However, there are some potential drawbacks or challenges that travelers might face:

Political Situation: The West Bank is a region of political tension due to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Travelers should stay informed about the current situation and follow any travel advisories issued by their home country.
Security Concerns: There may be security checkpoints and a visible military presence in the area. This can sometimes cause delays and might be intimidating for some travelers.
Transportation: Public transportation options may be limited, and infrastructure might not be as developed as in other tourist destinations. Renting a car or hiring a guide might be necessary.
Cultural Sensitivity: Travelers should be aware of and respect local customs and cultural norms. The region is home to a diverse population with different religious and cultural practices.
Access and Entry Restrictions: Depending on your nationality, entering the West Bank might require additional permits or documentation. It is important to check entry requirements in advance.
Limited Tourist Facilities: While Jericho has some tourist facilities, they may not be as extensive or luxurious as those in more developed tourist destinations. Accommodation and dining options might be limited.
Heat and Climate: Jericho is one of the lowest and oldest cities in the world, with a desert climate. It can get extremely hot, especially in the summer, which might be uncomfortable for some visitors.

Travelers should weigh these factors carefully when planning a trip to Jericho and take appropriate precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Jericho, located in the West Bank, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history that dates back thousands of years. Its rich past is marked by numerous significant events, historical figures, and landmarks.

Prehistoric and Ancient History

Neolithic Period (c. 10,000 BCE): Jericho's earliest settlement is traced back to around 10,000 BCE during the Neolithic era. Evidence of this period is found at the archaeological site of Tell es-Sultan, where remains of circular mud-brick houses and a notable stone tower and wall were discovered, suggesting an early form of urban living.
Bronze Age: During the Bronze Age, Jericho was a significant Canaanite city. The city is mentioned in ancient Egyptian texts such as the Execration Texts (c. 1900 BCE), suggesting its importance in regional politics and trade.

Biblical Era

Joshua and the Israelites (c. 1400 BCE): According to the Hebrew Bible, Jericho was the first city conquered by the Israelites under Joshua after they crossed the Jordan River. This event is famously associated with the story of the walls of Jericho falling after the Israelites marched around the city for seven days.

Classical Antiquity

Hellenistic Period: After the conquests of Alexander the Great, Jericho came under Hellenistic influence. It became part of the Hasmonean kingdom during the Maccabean Revolt against the Seleucid Empire.
Herodian Era: Herod the Great, the Roman-appointed king of Judea, built a winter palace at Jericho, enhancing the city's status and infrastructure. This palace included gardens, pools, and other luxurious amenities, remnants of which can still be seen today.

Roman and Byzantine Periods

Early Christian Era: Jericho continued to flourish under Roman rule and later during the Byzantine period. It became an important center for early Christianity, with several churches established in and around the city.

Islamic Period

Early Islamic Era: With the Muslim conquests in the 7th century CE, Jericho became part of the Islamic Caliphate. The city remained a modest settlement through the Umayyad and Abbasid periods.
Umayyad Palace: The Hisham's Palace, located near Jericho, is an outstanding example of early Islamic architecture from the Umayyad period. It features intricate mosaics, including the famous "Tree of Life" mosaic.

Crusader and Mamluk Periods

During the Crusades, Jericho changed hands between Muslim and Crusader forces. It eventually came under the control of the Mamluks, who managed the region until the Ottoman conquest.

Ottoman Period

Ottoman Empire: Under Ottoman rule from the 16th to 20th centuries, Jericho was a small village. It gained attention for its agricultural produce, particularly dates and bananas.

Modern History

20th Century and the Arab-Israeli Conflict: Jericho was part of the British Mandate for Palestine and experienced significant changes during the 20th century. After the 1948 Arab-Israeli War, Jericho fell under Jordanian control, and later, after the Six-Day War in 1967, it came under Israeli occupation.
Oslo Accords: In 1994, as part of the Oslo Accords, Jericho became one of the first cities to be transferred to Palestinian Authority control.

Important Landmarks

Tell es-Sultan: The archaeological site of ancient Jericho, known for its historical significance and early urban development.
Hisham's Palace: An impressive Umayyad structure with well-preserved mosaics.
The Mount of Temptation: A site traditionally associated with the temptation of Christ, featuring a monastery built into the cliffs.

Jericho remains a city of historical and cultural significance, attracting visitors interested in its ancient past and its role in biblical and modern history.