A new reconstruction of the church at Ḥorbat Ḥanot in the Judean Shephelah

During the Byzantine period, the Judean Shephelah region of the Holy Land boasted numerous churches and monasteries. Some of these churches were erected at sanctified sites (loca sancta) or developed along the main pilgrimage routes to provide various support services. The church at Ḥorbat Ḥanot is unique as it was erected upon a venerated tomb ideally located along the ancient Jerusalem- Eleutheropolis road. Excavations at the site began nearly 50 years ago and uncovered colorful mosaic floors of a basilical church, built during the Byzantine period. Researchers have associated the site with the tomb of Goliath, which was visited and recorded by ancient pilgrims. Recent archeological fieldwork at the site exposed additional remains of the church yet, a comprehensive report has not been published. This article presents a cohesive and updated description of the architectural layout and present a reconstruction of the church.