Archaeological Evidence

The most discussed archaeological candidate for a Geshurite political center is et-Tell, near the northern end of the Sea of Galilee. Excavations have uncovered substantial Iron Age fortifications, a monumental gate, large buildings, and religious installations.

These remains demonstrate that a significant settlement existed in the area during the Iron Age. Some archaeologists identify it as the capital of Geshur, but no inscription found there has conclusively named the city or its kingdom.

Scholars have also debated the dating of important building phases at et-Tell and neighboring sites. This affects attempts to connect the archaeological remains with the period traditionally assigned to David.

The question of whether et-Tell was the New Testament town of Bethsaida is a separate archaeological debate and should not be confused with the proposed Iron Age identification.