Following the Arab conquest in the 7th century it began to decline, and was abandoned in the 12th century. Expeditions exploring the Negev visited Shivta at the beginning of the 20th century, and were impressed by the buildings' good state of preservation. Three Byzantine churches were discovered in the city. Other remains from the Roman and Byzantine period include houses, tiled streets, water and drainage systems, which are well preserved. Travelers heading to Eilat or Mitzpeh Ramon and using the western border route may take the opportunity of visiting Shivta and observing some of the achievements of these ancient cultures.
Visitors can also view a reconstructed ancient agricultural farm adjacent to the site.