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Known for its neolithic remains. Gilgal I is an important archaeological site in Jordan. Located in the eastern Valley. 13km north of Jericho. Gilgal I is one of several archaeological sites in the region that provide valuable insights into the prehistoric periods of human history in the area. Including agriculture, and the levant.

The site dates back to the pre-pottery neolithic period. Estimated to be around 9400-9200 BC
First excavated by Tamar Noy in 1979. Further excavations were conducted by Ofer Bar-Yosef of Harvard University. Together with Mordechai E. Kislev, and Anat Hartmann of Bar-Ilan University.

They uncovered the remains of circular and oval-shaped structures
These structures are believed to have served various purposes. Including dwelling places and communal areas. The dig also uncovered 13 round buildings made of mud and rock (1). By far the oldest domesticated figs were also found. From an incinerated house. That are described to be from cultivated, as opposed to wild fig trees.

Believed to be inhabited a short time. It was abandoned some 11,200 years ago.
Found with the fig seedlings were: barley, oats and acorns. Too large to be selectively propagated for gathering.

The seeds found at Gigal 1. Lack embryonic seeds
A mutation that does not survive in nature more than a single generation. This suggests that the fig trees at Gilgal were artificially maintained by planting live branches in the ground, a horticultural technique known as vegetative propagation. Or, ‘clones’.

Some fig remains recovered from other sites in the Middle East appear to be of the Gilgal variety though
It pushes back the date some 5,000 years. Making it the oldest domesticated crop. Believed to be some 1000 years before wheat, barley and legumes.(2)

Some of the earliest findings in the Levant were found here
Baked clay objects were discovered. The symbolic artifacts, and figureines found here. Are of interest to archaeologist. Because of there artistic, stylistic, symbolic and technological characteristics. Combined with the architecture, figs, and agricultural finds.

Did you know? MHF Israel. Or the Moreshet Foundation. Has been developing an educational center in the valley. To highlight the importance, and special history or this site.

Like any archaeological site. It’s important to note that research is ongoing. New technologies and discoveries will be made. At Gilgal I, and/or nearby. The site’s findings contribute to understanding broader cultural developments. In the ancient near East. Including the emergence of agriculture and the neolithic revolution. Check it out with some more neolithic architecture today!

Citation: 1) 3. Soffer, Gili (26 December 2006). “Where’s the historical Gilgal?” (https://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3344688,00.html). ynetnews.com. Yedioth Internet.

2) Harvard University release (4 June 2006). “Tamed 11,400 Years Ago, Figs Were Likely First Domesticated Crop” (https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2006/06/060602074522.htm). ScienceDaily.

Bibliography:
Soffer, Gili (26 December 2006). “Where’s the historical Gilgal?” (https://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3344688,00.html). ynetnews.com. Yedioth Internet.

“Farming began with fig trees, say experts” (https://web.archive.org/web/20150924135511/http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-146520118.html