Located in the biblical heartland of Israel, one of the most significant heritage sites in Israel is the biblical town of Shiloh, ancient home of the Jewish Tabernacle (Tent of Meeting) and the first center of worship in the Promised Land.
Established by Joshua approximately 3,500 years ago as the spiritual capital of Israel, Jews from all over the land came to worship at this location (Joshua 18:1). According to tradition, the Tabernacle stood here for over 350 years, and remains of its location can still be seen today.
It was in Shiloh that Eli and Samuel ministered unto God (1 Samuel 3).
Newly refurbished and rebranded, Shiloh has transformed into a place that fuses the modern and the ancient, designed to engage visitors of all ages and walks of life.
Shiloh also has an extensive Christian history. It is home to the remnants of four churches which date to the Byzantine era, one of which dates as far back as 400 AD. Visitors can see ancient mosaic flooring inside a Byzantine basilica featuring various intricate patterns and symbols, including a Star of David, which dates back to 8th-century AD.
Shiloh boasts an unusual visitor’s center (Seer’s Tower) with a viewing station and an interactive multimedia presentation which helps visitors uncover the layers of the different historical periods, while presenting the story of the region and its people. Here, the biblical stories of its original inhabitants—Joshua, Samuel, Hannah, and others—come back to life.
The new Seer’s Tower observation site includes:
- The Light & Sound presentation offers a slice of life in the days of the Tabernacle in Shiloh using innovative multimedia technology.
- The Days of Shiloh museum on the lower floor of the tower showcases archaeological discoveries from the excavation sites, including jars from the time of Joshua, Shiloh inscriptions, various artifacts, and more.
The visitor’s center also has a café, gift shop, touring information, and restrooms. There are also several lovely venues on site for hosting meals and events.
With over 100,000 visitors each year, Shiloh has turned into a hot spot for groups of tourists from all over Israel and the world, but its caretakers will tell you it’s more than just a site to honor the past—it’s a place they believe is a gateway to a hopeful future.
Just outside the archaeological park lies the modern community of Shiloh, and the home of Shiloh Israel Children’s Fund. Founded and established by former mayor of Shiloh David Rubin, along with the help of friends in Israel and the United States, the nonprofit provides a refuge for children who have suffered the devastating effects of terrorism.
The Shiloh Israel Children’s Fund provides aid and relief in the form of therapeutic, educational, and recreational projects. It has brought hope to countless families struggling to cope with the trauma of terror as it strives to fulfill its end: to build a brighter future for the children of Israel.
