Of the Lands That Lay North of Late Ottoman Beersheba

Abstract

ABSTRACT Archaeological excavations conducted north of Beersheba bring to light Late Ottoman- and British Mandate-period structures, cisterns, and terraces. The use of the land, existing ruins, and unique building style help identify two distinct populations that migrated to the region. The architecture and land use differ between the two populations, though the material finds, consisting primarily of Gaza Ware, are similar. The Negev Highland Bedouin are identified by ephemeral sites. When they construct structures, these maintain principles found within the Bedouin tent. In addition, the Negev Highland Bedouin often maintain existing cisterns while structures may make use of existing ruins. The second settlement plan is attributed to Arabs from the Southern Judean desert, who often hewed into the mountain sides.