Ashkelon

Ashkelon is considered to be one of the world’s most ancient cities, a cradle of human civilization. Thanks to its special strategic position, on the shores of the Mediterranean, the city played a vital role as a true crossroads between Europe and Africa.

Ashkelon, whose name is derived from the root shekel, is first mentioned in the Egyptian “mearot writings” of the 19th century B.C.E.
Its name appears in the hieroglyphics on pottery shards, as “Askala.” During biblical times, Ashkelon was one of the five key Philistine cities along the coastal plain.

When King Shaul fell while fighting the Philistines, David said, "Thy beauty, O' Israel upon thy high places is slain... Tell it not in Gath, publish it not in the streets of Ashkelon lest the daughters of the Philistines rejoice, lest the daughters of the uncircumcised triumph.” (Samuel II 1:19-20). Ashkelon was also where the mighty Samson slew 30 Philistines and used their outfits to pay off the wager which he lost to their countrymen through their trickery. (Judges 14:19).

Modern Ashkelon was established in 1953 by the Jewish South African development company Afridar.

Great Places to Visit:

• The Outdoor Museum: Sunday-Friday 09:00-14:00. Afridar Quarter, near the Municipal Cultural Center.
• Ashkelon Khan and Museum: Hatzmaut Square, Migdal

Great Ashkelon Links

• Ashkelon Municipality
• Ashkelon Marina

Restaurants in Ashkelon

• GIL YAHALOM: 101 HaNasi Blvd. Tel: 08-673-5175
• Subway Sandwiches: Merkaz Nafti