Gaza

A fortified Philistine city approximately 15 miles south of Ashkelon along the coastal road. Gaza is older and larger than its northern neighbor, with strong Egyptian influence due to its proximity to the border and importance as the last major stop before entering the Nile Delta.

Description

Gaza boasts proper stone walls and a permanent Egyptian garrison. The city serves as a customs post where caravans from Egypt are inspected before continuing north, and where merchants heading south must register their goods. The marketplace is known for its Egyptian goods - papyrus, luxury fabrics, and exotic spices - often at better prices than in Ashkelon.

Notable Features

• The Egyptian Fort: A mud-brick fortress within the city walls, home to a rotating garrison of Egyptian soldiers
• The Customs House: Where all southbound trade is taxed and registered
• The Great Well: An ancient well in the city center, said to have been dug by heroes of old

Connections

• One day's walk south of Ashkelon along the Coastal Road
• Two days from the Egyptian border
• Connected to inland routes via Wadi Gaza