| Banias |
| Banias |
| Physical-engineering survey |
| Orderer | Nature and Parks Authority |
| Duration | June-August 2008 |
| Implemented by: |
Arch. Vardit Shotten-Hallel
Eng. Yaacov Schefer
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The Nahal Hermon Nature Reserve – Banias – includes a unique natural landscape and archaeological finds that span many different periods. There are artifacts at the site from the Hellenistic period when the city of Panias was founded as a cultic center dedicated to the god Pan; from the Roman period when Herod established a magnificent temple there and also from the Byzantine, Crusader, Mamluk and Ottoman periods.
The variety of heritage remains that is in the reserve enhances the visitor’s experience there and it has much potential for educational activity.
In the 1980’s and 1990’s a number of archaeological excavations were conducted at Banias under the direction of Moshe Hartal, Vassilios Tzaferis and Shoshana Israel.
In 1997-1999 the Conservation Department of the Israel Antiquities Authority performed a number of surveys at the site of Banias.
During June 2008 a new survey was conducted which evaluated the state of preservation in the following regions:
Area B - includes impressive remains of a large building from the Roman period, which is incorporated in a basilica structure that dates to the Byzantine period;
the temples and the Cave of Pan;
the Roman bridge;
the northwestern tower;
Agrippa’s palace;
the synagogue;
the vaults;
Area F which includes the remains of a street and rooms that date to the Roman-Byzantine period;
the city wall where the northeastern gate, the gate tower and the southwestern tower are located.
The survey describes those sites whose continued existence is at jeopardy. Specific engineering surveys will be conducted in them for the purpose of planning and implementing conservation measures that will remove any hazards.
Whereas the current survey emphasizes engineering aspects it also stresses the potential for architectural conservation. The survey will serve as an up-to-date information basis on which a plan for conserving the cultural heritage of the site will be based.
To view the figures, click on the figure caption
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