Excavations at the Bronze Age city of Ugarit have revealed a unique series of lapis-lazuli-lined offering altars located at the summit of a newly identified sanctuary. Dated to approximately 1400 BCE, these structures are believed to be the focal point for the Festival of the Morning Star, a celestial celebration dedicated to the deity Shahar.
The altars were precisely aligned to catch the first light of the planet Venus during the spring equinox. Archaeologists recovered several ritual chalices containing residues of frankincense and honey-wine, suggesting that the festivities were characterized by late-night vigils and aromatic libations. This find highlights the sophisticated astronomical knowledge of the Canaanites and their integration of planetary cycles into communal heritage traditions.