Jericho: Neolithic Tower

This photograph shows the earliest fortification structure thus far discovered anywhere in the world. It is a circular tower that was probably built around 7,000 BCE and was connected to a massive stone wall. The position of the tower would have given those on top of it a commanding view of the broad Jordan River Valley. The top of the tower was accessed by 22 steps that lead from the doorway, visible at the bottom, to the place on top of the tower that is covered by the modern grate (also visible).