Meggido

Meggido is a site known for its historical, geographical, and theological importance, especially under its Greek name Armageddon. In ancient times Megiddo was an important city-state.  Excavations have unearthed 26 layers of ruins, indicating a long period of settlement. Megiddo is strategically located at the head of a pass through the Carmel Ridge overlooking the Jezreel Valley from the west.

Large round altar at Meggido

Having some fun

The site is now protected as Megiddo National Park. Megiddo was a site of great importance in the ancient world. It guarded the western branch of a narrow pass and trade route connecting Egypt and Assyria. Because of its strategic location, Megiddo was the site of several historical battles. The site was inhabited from approximately 7000 BC to 586 BC (the same time as the destruction of the First Israelite Temple in Jerusalem by the Babylonians, and subsequent fall of Israelite rule and exile). Since this time it has remained uninhabited, preserving ruins pre-dating 586 BC without settlements ever disturbing them. 

At the end of our walking tour of the ruins, we went through a tunnel showing the hidden water source for those who lived on top of this hill. This water system consisted of a square shaft 115 ft deep, the bottom of which opened into a tunnel bored through rock for 330 ft to a pool of water.

There was an awesome view from the top of this hill, and we enjoyed looking over the green, fertile valley below and contemplating a future battle prophesied to take place here.  From here we could see across the valley to Nazareth (nestled on a hill) and Mt. Tabor.  Undoubtedly the Savior was very familiar with this beautiful region.