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Abstract

This article presents new data concerning Roman-period Ḥamat Gader, following the excavation of the theater and conservation works within the bathhouse complex and synagogue, on behalf of the Israel Antiquities Authority. The settlement at Ḥamat Gader and its vicinity was established in the Early Bronze Age, after which it was abandoned. The site was resettled in the Roman period (second century CE), when a complex of health and recreation baths, and a ritual theater, were built within the area of the polis of Gadara-Umm Qais. The bath complex used the hot sulfur waters of ‘Ain el-Makli, a holy spring, which attracted many local and foreign patrons and became renown throughout the Roman Empire. The bath complex, located in the middle of the city, largely contributed to its development. Colonnaded streets, a theater, religious buildings, inns, shops and various entertainment facilities were built around the baths. The various public buildings and baths were connected by wide colonnaded streets, typical of Roman cities. These buildings and facilities provided the visitor with religious, medical and social comfort, as was customary throughout the Roman Empire. The earthquake of 363 CE partially destroyed the city’s buildings. After this, the bath complex and the Roman theater were renovated, and a magnificent synagogue was built above Tell el- Ḥama. At the end of the Umayyad period, in 749 CE, another horrendous earthquake occurred, which destroyed many cities in the region, including Ḥamat Gader. Following this episode, the bath complex was abandoned; however, visitors continue to frequent the hot sulfur springs to this day.

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