Excavation and analysis of an early iron age lime Kiln

The present study focuses on the excavation and analysis of an early Iron Age kiln found at Tel Hebron. Remains of quicklime and slagging material found at the bottom of the kiln were analysed using FTIR and SEM-EDS, showing that the kiln was originally used for lime production. Later addition of small inner chambers suggests that the feature was reused, although it cannot be concluded on the basis of the physical remains whether lime production continued. While significant lime use is known as early as the Pre-Pottery Neolithic, early (dateable) lime-production remains are rare. The lime kiln from Tel Hebron is therefore an important addition to the limited existing repertoire.