Hazor was one of the largest and most prominent cities of the Bronze Age Levant, a political and economic hub whose built environment reflected both local aspirations and far-reaching connections. The long-term excavations at the site have revealed an array of monumental architecture from the Middle and Late Bronze Ages, including palaces, temples, and fortifications. These structures exemplify architectural traditions that align closely with those of the northern Levant, attesting to an interconnected network of influences, yet they also embody distinctive local adaptations and innovations.
This lecture will follow the development of Hazor’s monumental architecture from the Middle Bronze foundations to the transformations of the Late Bronze Age. It will consider how materials and construction methods shaped the form, strength, and appearance of buildings. Particular attention will be given to how these structures organized movement, controlled access, and created spaces for both public gatherings and restricted activities, revealing the changing needs and ambitions of Hazor’s rulers and inhabitants.