Locating Askalan: A Search for Its Location and State
The Rich History of Ashkelon, Israel
The city of Ashkelon, a coastal city located in the Southern region of Israel, is a place of great historical and cultural significance. Situated 50 km south of Tel Aviv, the capital of Israel, and 13 km north of the Gaza Strip, Ashkelon has been the center of various civilizations throughout history.
Referred to as Ascalan in the TV series Saladin Ayyubi, the Conqueror of Jerusalem, the city has witnessed many important events. It was one of the leading cities of Palestine and had an important place in religious and commercial life during the Hellenistic, Roman and Christian periods.
TDV Islamic Encyclopedia states that Ashkelon is one of the last Palestinian cities conquered by Muslims. It was described as “one of the two brides” along with Gaza by the Prophet Muhammad. The city has been through various conquests and has been a significant trade center, serving as a passage between Syria and Egypt.
The rich history of Ashkelon also includes being captured by the Crusader army in 1099, retaken by Saladin Ayyubid after the Battle of Hittin in 1187, and then being destroyed to prevent it from falling into the hands of King Richard of England. The city fell into Muslim hands again in 1247, but was later demolished entirely by the Mamluk Sultan Baybars I in 1270 to prevent Crusader invasion.
In its ancient and medieval days, Ashkelon was famous for its plane and walnut trees, olive groves, henna, and a type of garlic that takes its name from the city. While this ancient city has remained in ruins, a new settlement called Tel Ashkelon was established in the region, which is under the occupation of Jews today.
The city of Ashkelon, with its rich historical significance, continues to be an area of interest for historians, archeologists, and those who appreciate the cultural and historical heritage of this coastal region.
