Religious site
Khirbet el-Maqatir
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Khirbet el-Maqatir, located near Taybeh, is believed by many scholars to be the site of ancient Ai, conquered by Joshua according to the Bible. The site features well-preserved ruins from the Iron Age, including a city gate, houses, and a possible cultic site. Christian tourists often visit to connect with the biblical account of Joshua's battle. The excavation area provides interpretive signs, and the surrounding landscape offers a serene setting for reflection. Its identification with Ai makes it a distinctive stop for those tracing biblical history.
Don't miss
- Walk through the excavated Iron Age city gate and fortifications
- See the remains of ancient houses and a possible altar
- Read interpretive signs explaining the biblical connection to Ai
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Khirbet el-Maqatir
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inJeita Grotto, Harisa & Byblos: Small Group Tour with Hotel pickup4.9★ · 157 travelers~8 hoursFree cancellationFrom$30 per personSee dates →
Best full dayPrivate or Group tour to Dead Sea, baptism site, Nebo and Madaba4.9★ · 130 travelers9–10 hoursFree cancellationFrom$60 per personSee dates →
Top ratedBethlehem, Jericho, and Qasr El Yahud Day Trip from Tel Aviv4.2★ · 101 travelers~11 hoursFree cancellationFrom$135 per personSee dates →More attractions in Taybeh
