Tel Dan

Visit Tel Dan – Ancient History in Northern Israel

Just a short drive from Tiberias in the lush hills of the Galilee, Tel Dan offers one of Israel’s most compelling archaeological and biblical sites. Set against a backdrop of flowing springs, shaded pathways, and ancient city ruins, Tel Dan brings history to life where nature meets antiquity.

Why Tel Dan Matters

Tel Dan is renowned for the Tel Dan Inscription, a 9th-century BC Aramaic stone inscription that contains the phrase “House of David.” This remarkable piece of biblical archaeology in Israel is widely regarded as the first extra-biblical reference to King David and serves as significant King David archaeological evidence.

Biblically, Tel Dan is mentioned as the northernmost boundary of Israel, inspiring the famous phrase “from Dan to Beersheba” (Judges 20:1; 1 Samuel 3:20; 2 Samuel 3:10). It was also the settlement of the tribe of Dan (Judges 18), who migrated north and established the city named after their ancestor. Later, King Jeroboam placed one of Israel’s golden calves here, making it a northern worship center (1 Kings 12:28–30).

For those exploring archaeological evidence for King David, Tel Dan stands at the center of the conversation and is frequently cited in discussions of the House of David inscription.

What You’ll See

At Tel Dan National Park, you can explore:

• The remains of an ancient Canaanite and Israelite city
• Massive city gates and fortified walls
• Cool streams and scenic walking trails
• Informational displays that bring the site’s history into focus

Walking the site, many travelers describe the feeling of standing where ancient peoples once lived, worshiped, and fought — a vivid reminder of biblical times.

Travel Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes — the terrain includes uneven paths and steps.
• Bring water and sun protection in warmer months; shaded areas are limited.
• Plan at least 1–1.5 hours to fully enjoy both the archaeological remains and the peaceful natural setting.

Combine With Other Sites

Tel Dan pairs beautifully with visits to the Golan Heights, the Banias Springs, or a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee. Many travelers also include it as part of guided Israel biblical tours to deepen their understanding of Israel’s ancient past. For those exploring Jerusalem, it can be combined with other holy land tour packages for a full biblical experience.