Akhziv

Akhziv is a coastal locality in northern Israel, situated on the Mediterranean coast, just north of Nahariya. Historically, it is a significant archaeological site, with evidence of habitation stretching back to the Neolithic period. The ancient settlement of Akhziv was known in antiquity as Achzib or Ekziib and was an important Phoenician port city and a biblical town in the territory of the tribe of Asher. It is mentioned in ancient texts, including the Hebrew Bible, and was a thriving center of trade and culture.

The site has been inhabited by various cultures throughout history, including Canaanites, Phoenicians, Israelites, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Crusaders, and Ottomans, each leaving their mark on the landscape and ruins. Archaeological excavations have uncovered remains of ancient fortifications, dwellings, and burial sites, providing valuable insights into the region's past.

In the modern era, the area was known for its Arab village of al-Zib, which was depopulated during the 1948 Arab-Israeli War. Following the war, a kibbutz, Kibbutz Akhziv, was established nearby in 1949, though it was later disbanded. Today, Akhziv is primarily known for its beautiful beaches, rocky coastline, and the Akhziv National Park, which protects the archaeological remains and natural landscape. The park is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering opportunities for swimming, picnicking, and exploring the ancient ruins.