Herbesinning oor die betekenis en funksionering van die stadspoort gedurende die Yster II-tyd in ou Israel

Rethinking the meaning and functioning of the city gate during the Iron Age II in Israel

Abstract

In this article it is argued that the gate and wall were part of the fortification of the Israelite cities during the Iron Age II. Classified as fortification of the Isrealite cities during the Iron Age II. Classified as fortification, some scholars are of the opinion that the city gate and wall were built for this purpose only. These scholars generally conclude that there is a rigid scheme of development from the casemate wall and six-chambered gates to the massive in and offset walls and four-chambered gates.

Instead of the above rigid scheme based on a single functional factor, the variety of fortification methods that existed, simultaneously and side by side should be emphasised. These fortification methods are products of culture and were chosen as a result of military, economic, strategic and social considerations.