The American Expedition to Hebron, 1964

Abstract

The first season of stratigraphic archaeological exploration at El-Khalil (Hebron), Jordan, was undertaken between July and September, 1964, by the American Expedition to Hebron under the direction of Philip C. Hammond of Princeton Theological Seminary. Five educational institutions, three sponsors, and several private donors supported the project.' Most staff members, including area and site supervisors, were from the supporting institutions. Modern Hebron, located about twenty miles south of Jerusalem in the hill country at an altitude of some 2,600 feet, spreads up the eastern hillside from the valley along which the main road runs. Surrounding the city are lush vineyards, orchards, and olive groves, all watered by more than two dozen springs, several pools, and an annual rainfall of eight to ten inches. At the center is a famous mosque said to be built over the tomb of the patriarchs. That the sanctity of this site might be preserved, excavation was prohibited within one kilometer of the Haram.