Early Bronze Age Fortifications: Jericho as a Case Study

Jericho, located in the Jordan Valley, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Archaeological excavations have revealed evidence of substantial defensive structures dating back to the Early Bronze Age (c. 3300-2000 BCE), reflecting the importance of the settlement and the potential need for protection.

Defensive Wall Systems at Jericho

Jericho's defenses comprised multiple elements, evolving over time. Key features included:

• Outer Wall: Constructed of mud brick, this served as the primary line of defense. Evidence suggests reconstructions and expansions over several periods.
• Inner Wall/City Wall: Located closer to the city center, providing a secondary defensive line and potentially serving as a retaining structure for terraces supporting dwellings.
• Towers: Strategically positioned along the wall circuit to provide flanking fire and observation points. Excavations have uncovered several towers associated with the defensive system.
• Glacis: An artificial sloping embankment made of compacted earth or stone, designed to impede attackers and expose them to defensive fire from the walls above. The glacis at Jericho added significantly to the overall defensive capabilities.
• Ditch/Moat: Archaeological evidence suggests the presence of a ditch or moat outside the outer wall in some periods, further hindering attackers.

Construction Materials and Techniques

The walls were primarily constructed of mud brick (sun-dried bricks), a readily available material in the Jordan Valley. The mud bricks were typically laid in courses and bonded with mud mortar. Stone was sometimes used for foundations or revetments, particularly in areas prone to erosion.

Variations in Wall Dimensions

The dimensions of the defensive structures at Jericho varied depending on the construction phase and location along the perimeter. It is crucial to note that erosion, damage, and subsequent rebuilding have impacted the preservation of the walls, making precise measurements challenging. Archaeological reports detail wall thicknesses and heights which are often approximations.

Archaeological Challenges and Interpretations

Reconstructing the precise layout and dimensions of Jericho's fortifications is an ongoing process. Archaeological interpretations are based on limited evidence, and different scholars may offer varying reconstructions. Factors such as erosion, later building activity, and the challenges of excavating within a densely populated modern city all contribute to the complexity of understanding the site's history.