TELL AFIS IN THE IRON AGE: The Official Buildings on the Eastern Acropolis

The sacred open-air terrace (J) on the acropolis (east of Temple A1) included several cultic installations such as a bench, an altar, a basin, and a large stone slab. Many bone fragments prove that animals (caprovines and pigs) were sacrificed and possibly consumed in that area. More to the east, a large open-air square courtyard (G) was created by digging into previous levels. It stood isolated up to at least three meters above the ground level. The ceramic assemblage includes local Red Slip ware and fine imported pottery; it is therefore reasonable to assume that this structure had a ceremonial function. Part of the surrounding walls had already collapsed by the end of Iron Age II.