Daily Archives: February 18, 2025

The Capitol of King Saul

Saul was the first king of Israel. He built his capitol north of Jerusalem in the territory of the tribe of Benjamin. The city is referred to in the Bible as Gibeah of Saul (1 Samuel 15:34). It is also called Gibeah of Benjamin (1 Samuel 14:16). Remnants of the small fortress from that time have been uncovered at the site. The flat-top building you see was being constructed by king Hussein of Jordan when Israel captured the area during the Six day war in 1967. Today the entire area around the tel is covered by residences and business buildings.

Photo (c) by Ferrell Jenkins about 1970 or 1971.