Ashkelon

Ashkelon is a coastal city in the Southern District of Israel, situated on the Mediterranean Sea. It lies along the southern coastal plain, near the Gaza Strip. The city is known for its long shoreline and beaches, and for serving as a regional center of culture, education, and commerce.

Historically, Ashkelon is identified with the ancient Philistine city of Ascalon, a major port in antiquity. The nearby archaeological site of Tel Ashkelon preserves remains from the Bronze and Iron Ages, including city walls, gates, fortifications, and temple precincts, reflecting its long history under various rulers such as the Philistines, Egyptians, Canaanites, and later Romans and Byzantines. The site is part of the Tel Ashkelon National Park and remains an important resource for archaeology and tourism.

In the modern era, the municipality of Ashkelon was established in 1950 on the site of the depopulated Palestinian town of al-Majdal, incorporating residents from surrounding areas. The city is known for its beaches, a large medical center, and educational institutions such as the Ashkelon Academic College.

The economy combines services, education, trade, and agriculture from the surrounding coastal plain, with some light industry. The city has harbor and port facilities used for commercial and coastal activities, along with marina areas for recreation. Ashkelon also hosts cultural events, markets, and sports facilities that serve residents and visitors alike.

Climatically, Ashkelon has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The combination of historic heritage and seaside recreation continues to attract tourists and researchers to the area.