Geoarchaeological analysis of ancient harbor deposits has answered questions regarding the timing and extent of the destruction of the harbor at Caesarea Maritima built by Herod the Great on Israel's Mediterranean coast. By using stratigraphic, micropaleontological (foraminifera), and geochemical (Sr isotopes) analyses of the ancient harbor deposits we can establish a late first to early second century A.D. date for the destruction of the harbor. This destruction occurred earlier, was more rapid and widespread than previously proposed, and was probably caused by seismic activity. The new excavations also indicate that during the fourth to early sixth centuries A.D., geomorphological processes and siltation within the inner harbor allowed this area to be used in a limited capacity as a harbor.

This content is PDF only. Please click on the PDF icon to access.

First Page Preview

First page PDF preview
You do not have access to this content, please speak to your institutional administrator if you feel you should have access.