Image Details

DUBY TAL/ALBATROSS/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

QUMRAN IN THE JUDEAN DESERT is perched on a marl plateau overlooking the northwest shore of the Dead Sea. Dating to the first century B.C.E. and C.E., the archaeological site consists of the settlement (Khirbet Qumran), a cemetery (here, on the left), and surrounding caves. The identity of its ancient inhabitants and its purpose continue to be debated.