Another destruction layer identified at the site dates to the Iron Age, corresponding to the conquest of Azekah, a city in the Kingdom of Judah, by the Assyrian army. Professor Oded Lipschits, the expedition leader, reported that during the excavations, remnants of an Assyrian siege ramp were discovered in the southeastern corner of Tel Azekah. This ramp dates to King Sennacherib's campaign against the cities of Judah in 701 BCE. A similar siege ramp from the same Assyrian military campaign was found at Tel Lachish. The Assyrian conquest of Azekah is mentioned in the Azekah Inscription.
It is difficult to pinpoint where the battle between David and Goliath took place or if it even happened, but if we approach these events, it could have only been at the foot of Tel Azekah, opposite Tel Socoh, near the Ela stream. It is possible that David took a smooth stone from this stream, placed it in his sling, and defeated Goliath.
This short walk through the Ela Valley and the slopes of the central highlands will reveal the history of the place, from biblical prophets to Roman emperors. Important trade routes from the valley to Jerusalem have always passed through here, and this was the border of Judea. We will encounter intriguing sites like the battlefield of David and Goliath, the possible tomb of Goliath, and many other stories of this fascinating area.
Don't be afraid to get lost in new places!
