Shivta

Shivta is an archaeological site and ancient Nabatean settlement located in the Negev Desert, southern Israel. The site spans over 200 hectares and dates back to the 3rd century BCE. It was an important hub for the Nabatean trade route, which connected the kingdom with the Mediterranean Sea and the Arabian Peninsula. The Nabateans were known for their advanced irrigation systems and sophisticated cultivation of fruits and grains in the harsh desert environment.

The ruins of Shivta are remarkably preserved, with several well-preserved mosaics, temples, and monasteries still standing. The site features a central temple and a monastery, as well as a series of churches and a mausoleum. The architecture of Shivta reflects the cultural and religious influences of the various civilizations that inhabited the site, including the Nabateans, Romans, and Christians. Excavations at Shivta have revealed several layers of human occupation, with the latest dating from the 8th century CE.

Shivta was abandoned around the 12th century due to a combination of factors, including decline of the Nabatean kingdom and a severe drought. Despite its abandonment, the site remains a significant cultural and historical relic of the ancient civilizations that once flourished in the region. Today, Shivta is operated by Israel National Parks Authority and is considered one of the country's most important archaeological sites.