Tell al-Membaqa (Kingdom of Ekalta)

The ancient name of this site, according to the cuneiform tablets discovered there, was the kingdom of Ekalte. It was mentioned by the Egyptian Pharaoh Thutmose III as a significant and large city. Today, Tell Membaka has become an island due to Lake Assad.

The ancient name of this mound, according to the cuneiform texts discovered at the site, is the Kingdom of Ekalte. The Egyptian Pharaoh Thutmose III referred to it as an important and large city, currently known as Tell Mambiq, due to the presence of Lake Assad

Archaeological evidence indicates the presence of four temples in the city—three located on elevated land along the banks of the Euphrates River, while the fourth stands near the city gate. Additionally, artifacts dating back to the Mesilim period (2600–2700 BCE) have been found, and German excavations uncovered an archive of clay tablets documenting marriage contracts and trade dealings with Ugarit.
The city follows a chessboard-like layout, featuring a central boulevard and a temple square. Access is possible only by boat, which has contributed to the site’s remarkable preservation.