The most isolated of the Nabataean towns, Shivta was founded during the early Roman period (1st century BCE). Its ruins date from the Byzantine period (4th to 7th centuries CE), when Shivta was an important stop on the caravan route between Egypt and Anatolia. They include churches, houses, tiled streets and an impressive irrigation system.
Shivta is 58km southwest of Be’er Sheva. From Rte 40 continue from Telalim Junction on Rte 211 for about 15km. At the junction near the petrol station, drive 9km south.
