Hamat Gader (meaning "Hot Springs of Gadara") is located in the
Yarmuk River Valley, some 7 km. east of the Sea of Galilee.
There are several mineral springs in the valley, with waters of up to 50º C.
The ancient name of Hamat Gader is a corruption of the Greek word meaning "baths".
The Roman Baths were built at Hamat Gader as early as the 2nd century,
but they became popular only during the Byzantine period, in the 5th and 6th centuries.
Some of the buildings were damaged by an earthquake in the 7th century and
restored by the Umayyad Caliph who ruled from Damascus. Eventually, in the 9th century,
the baths were abandoned and a thick layer of silt covered the ruins.

Remains of the various structures at Hamat Gader were first studied and partially
excavated in 1932.  Extensive excavations which exposed a large portion of the
baths complex were conducted during several seasons, beginning in 1979.

Dozens of Greek and Arabic inscriptions were found on marble and stone plaques
incorporated into the floors and walls of the bath buildings. These provide information
about the Byzantine rulers and about wealthy individuals who contributed to the cost
of construction and renovation work, for which cures were wished on them.
Dedicatory inscriptions mention the Empress Eudocia (421-460),
the Caesar Anastasius (491-518) and the Umayyad Caliph Mu’awiyya (661-680).
An inscription from the reign of Empress Eudocia, on a 1.81 x 0.71 m. marble slab,
bears the Empress’ name and praises the springs and baths of Hamat Gader,
mentioning 16 buildings, including halls, pools and fountains.
The exposed structures have recently been restored and opened to visitors.

Roman Bath ruins at Hamat Gader. 9/05/2000

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