Bethmaus
Second Temple Jewish village
Bethmaus, also known as Beth Maʿon or Maon, was a Jewish village that existed during the Late Second Temple and Mishnaic periods. The village has been tentatively identified with two possible sites: Nasir ad-Din, as suggested by Guérin in 1875, and Tell Maʿūn, located slightly west of Nasir ad-Din, as proposed by Kitchener in 1881. An earlier identification was made by Ishtori Haparchi in 1322, who placed the village on a hill northwest of Tiberias.
Today, the site of Bethmaus is incorporated within the modern city bounds of Upper Tiberias. The village's historical significance is still evident, with a remaining sheikh's tomb standing as a testament to its past. Although its exact location was a subject of debate among historians, Bethmaus is recognized as an important part of Jewish history during the Second Temple and Mishnaic periods. Its elevation at 250 metres above sea-level and proximity to Tiberias make it a notable archaeological site, providing valuable insights into the region's rich cultural heritage.