Tel Dor National Park

Tel Dor National Park extends over 70 dunams of natural land, its wild coastal landscape preserving relics from the splendid ancient port city of Dor. Extant on the site are findings from the Biblical era, Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine eras. Standing on the top of the tel it is possible to see the relics of the harbor peeking out from the foam on the waves.

The planning goal was to facilitate observation of the ancient city from both close and far through a pathway with “windows” giving a view of different historical periods to create a varied visiting experience.

Another important goal was creating accessibility of the upper observation point for visitors with disabilities. We designed the path with inclines that are comfortable and in compliance with international accessibility standards, with benches and shade canopies along the way.

Three paths were designed for the site: the coastal path, the sea path, and the ridge path leading to the tel. The 780m-long ridge path was designed for the Nature and Parks Authority, Israel Government Tourist Corporation, leading to the southern lookout on top of the tel. The shaded seating areas were located at points of archaeological interest along the path, complete with signage explaining the finds.

The path winds along past the remains of the Roman theatre, among other structures. We placed the route along the contour of the theatre so that visitors can view it from the same angle that Roman residents of Dor viewed performances. Although the original theatre was higher than the visible remains, the seats that we installed in a radial arrangement along the pathway do recreate something of the historical experience.

We placed the shaded area in the southern lookout at an especially dramatic, breathtaking point of the tongue of land poking out from the sea. All that this breathtaking spot needed was a shaded seating area. From the lookout, visitors can descend to rejoin the coastal route.

When designing the materials for the finish, we sought integration into the marine environment, choosing a minimal amount of materials:  concrete, wood, and Corten steel.

The ridge path is made entirely of concrete, a simple material leaving the drama to the scenery. The path’s expansion seam areas are made of Corten steel, which together with the steel signage and benches creates a unified design language. The Corten steel integrates beautifully into the maritime environment and the spirit of the ancient finds.

The path to the sea was built with wood surfaces, providing accessibility for individuals with mobility issues to reach the shoreline.

Shaded observation areas have been placed at points of archaeological interest accompanied by benches and low-placed explanatory signage.

Together these simple materials provide a minimalism of design that does not clash with the site’s archaeological drama and wild nature.