A strategic city because it was located on a well-defined hill that straddled the International Highway at a spot where it narrowed along the Jordan River, making it the first line of defense against armies attacking from the north.
Guarded the trade routes and could be used to collect taxes and duties
Known in Joshua’s day as the “head of all the kingdoms”
Water System: A century after Solomon’s time the Israelites built a massive shaft 40 meters deep into the tell, reaching the water table below. This water system was built during the time of King Ahab’s reign and provided the inhabitants with a steady water supply within the city walls.
Political/Cultural Significance
Solomonic Gates: Archaeologists have uncovered a six-chambered gate here, which is nearly identical in size and design to gates at Megiddo and Gezer.
Biblical Significance
Joshua 11:1-13 Joshua captured the city from Jabin, king of Hazor, and burned it
Judges 4-5 Hazor was rebuilt by another ruler (Jabin) who controlled the northern section of Israel for 20 years.
1 Kings 9:15 Solomon rebuilt Hazor during his reign to guard the northern approach to the land of Israel
