As an expert in ancient history and archaeology, I can provide you with an in-depth analysis of the city of Jericho. Jericho, also known as Tell es-Sultan, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It is located in the West Bank, near the Jordan River, and has a rich history that spans several millennia.

The city's size and layout have changed significantly over time, with the earliest settlements dating back to around 9000 BCE. The town mentioned in your reference, which was approximately 2.5 hectares (6 acres) in size, is indicative of the early urban planning that took place during the Pre-Pottery Neolithic period. This period is characterized by the transition from a nomadic lifestyle to a more settled agricultural one, and Jericho played a crucial role in this development.

The walls of Jericho are perhaps the most famous feature of the city, and they are believed to have been constructed around 8000 BCE, predating the town itself by about 500 years. This is an interesting point because it suggests that the walls were built as a defensive measure before the town had fully developed. The walls were made of stone and mud-brick, and they were a remarkable engineering feat for the time, standing over 3 meters high and 1.5 meters thick.

The houses within the town were round and constructed from mud-bricks, which is a common building material in the region. These houses were likely built with a focus on practicality and durability rather than aesthetics. The lack of street planning indicates that the town's layout was more organic, evolving as new houses were built and the population grew.

As time went on, Jericho continued to expand and develop. The city saw various rulers and civilizations come and go, each leaving their mark on the city's architecture and culture. The city's strategic location made it an important center for trade and military campaigns, and it was often a target for conquest.

In the biblical account, Jericho is famously known for the story of the Israelites led by Joshua, who marched around the city's walls for seven days before they fell. While this story is part of religious tradition, it also reflects the city's historical significance and the impact it had on the region.

Today, archaeological excavations at Jericho continue to reveal more about its past. The site is a treasure trove of information for historians and archaeologists, providing insights into the lives of the people who lived there and the broader cultural and historical context of the region.

In conclusion, the city of Jericho has a complex history that spans thousands of years. Its early size of 2.5 hectares (6 acres) and the construction of its walls before the town itself are just a few aspects of its rich and fascinating past. The city's development and the changes it underwent over time are testament to its importance as a center of human civilization.

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The town of Jericho, which was about 2.5 hectares (6 acres) in size, preceded the wall by about 500 years. In fact, evidence suggests that construction started prior to the agricultural revolution. The town contained round mud-brick houses, yet no street planning.read more >>