Demilitarized Zone, part of the wider
Israel–Syria demilitarised zone. Omrit is situated atop a foothill of
Mount Hermon, overlooking
Hula Lake. The site is located approximately 2.5 miles (c. 4 km) southwest of Banias, adjacent to a Roman road connecting
Scythopolis and
Damascus. According to the first-century historian
Josephus, in addition to reconstructing he
Second Temple in Jerusalem,
Herod built another three temples: one in
Caesarea Maritima, one in
Sebastia, and one near Banias. Given Omrit's proximity to Banias and the presence of an ancient temple adorned with
Corinthian capitals, it is very likely that Omrit is the site of the fourth temple built by Herod. After a
brushfire cleared the area in 1998, archaeological excavations began, being led by Professor
Andrew J. Overman of
Macalester College, with the assistance of nearby
Kfar Szold. The region was well trodden by
Roman influence, and thus far excavations have yielded three phases of temple construction approximated at mid 1st century BCE, 20 BCE and 1st century CE. The temple compound, in the center of the hill, was connected to the road by way of a street lined with columns, as was customary in the eastern provinces of the
Roman Empire. It continued to be used into the Byzantine period. The remains of shops and installations such as a wine press, were discovered there. == Gallery ==