A comprehensive characterization of ancient desert agricultural systems in the Negev Highlands of Israel

Ancient agricultural systems based on runoff harvesting techniques are abundant in the Negev Highlands. The current study examined traditional classification and investigated the distribution of ancient agricultural systems around the Roman-Byzantine “Negev Towns” Avdat and Shivta, and across the terrain located between these sites and Makhtesh Ramon in the south. It led to an elaboration of the traditional classification of runoff agricultural systems in the Negev desert of southern Israel. We found that the key factors for building these types of agricultural systems were the geological and geomorphological characteristics of the specific site locations and the geographic distance from nearby towns and roads. Depending on these factors, a multitude of types of agricultural systems were constructed in accordance with the physical characteristics of the local desert environment. This clearly indicates the continuation of the current desert climate throughout historical times. Furthermore, the large diversity of agriculture installations indicates that they were constructed by local farmers and not by an external plan imposed by the central government.

► The agriculture systems were built in a wide variety of forms. ► Geographic-surface factors dictated the types of desert agricultural systems. ► The ancient agriculture was also influenced by geographic-human factors. ► The large diversity of agriculture installations were constructed by local farmers. ► Ancient farming was established under harsh desert conditions similar to the present.