Gush Etzion, past and present

Walk in the footsteps of our forefathers and explore the region’s rich history and beautiful landscape.

By ITS IK MAROM
getzion (photo credit: Itsik Marom)
getzion
(photo credit: Itsik Marom)
Gush Etzion has long been a fixture in the annals of the Jewish nation.
From the beginning of biblical times, our forefathers walked its paths. King David used the roads of this area to reach Jerusalem with his army. The Maccabees fought in this place against the Greeks, and so on until recent times.
The region, with its rocky soil, is characterized by the harsh topography of mountainous areas.
Moreover, its Arab villages often proved hostile, as in the relatively recent and deadly events of 1929 and 1936. This temporarily halted Jewish efforts to repopulate the area, with the Jews leaving for a time – but not for long. From 1943 to 1947, prior to Israeli independence, four settlements were founded in the area, the first of which was named Kfar Etzion.
After 1967, Gush Etzion returned to Israeli hands. Since then, it continues to flourish and grow, with 14 new communities. Today, this highground area (more than 900 meters above sea level in some areas) offers many attractions, including wineries, walking and bicycle paths, museums and restaurants.
From the center of the country you can reach the Gush from several directions. From Jerusalem take Road 60 or Road 398 through Tekoa. From Beit Shemesh take Road 3866; from Tel Aviv, Road 367; and from the South (Beersheba), travel on Road 60.
As a less explored region that is not really familiar to most Israelis, the feeling of discovering this central and beautiful part of our land will be a joyful one. Gush Etzion is close to Jerusalem and has an unspoiled authentic feel, with history and landscapes that are just waiting for everyone to explore and enjoy.
In the days of the Second Temple, many Jews climbed up to Jerusalem, especially during the three pilgrimage festivals – when 300,000 pilgrims created a water shortage. The solution for Gush Etzion was building an aqueduct. The ancient aqueduct traverses the region and up to the Shiloah Pool in Jerusalem. One part of the system is the Biyar Aqueduct, which is a collection of 24 underground shafts right in the chalk Judean Hills. This Hasmonean-era project was almost ahead of its time, owing to the amazing accuracy of the angles of the water flow and its sheer magnitude of more than 20 kilometers. You can also visit the Biyar Aqueduct by guided tour through Pirim Tunnel; don’t forget a flashlight.
You can then move on to the path of the patriarchs – Derech Avot. This is the path our forefathers walked from Hebron to Jerusalem, and along it you can spot milestones from Roman times. A pillar placed every 1,400 meters marks the distance from Jerusalem, for interested walkers and those anticipating their arrival in the Holy City.
A trail will lead you through local natural water sources and springs including Ein Misla and Ein Fares, which are still used by local farmers to water their fields and orchards. Near Alon Shvut stands a single large oak tree, hundreds of years old. The lone oak is the symbol of Gush Etzion and bears witness to a big part of the region’s history, and the brave Jewish stubbornness to cling to the land of our biblical ancestors.
There is still much to discover in this area and although not all of its wonders have yet been revealed, a visit is certainly worthwhile.
In addition to the wonderful view in Tekoa, Nahal Tekoa has a winding canyon digging deep into the hills. You may want to enjoy a delicious snack at the new La-bas coffee shop, which in addition to food sells children’s clothes that the owner designs.
Near the Herodion, visit the Sde Bar ranch, a special project that provides a home and new life for teenagers in need. Sde Bar is a working farm and produce fine goat cheeses, yogurt and organic olive oil; there is also a restaurant where you can enjoy a variety of the farm’s products.
Eretz Ha’ayalim is a deer ranch that offers activities for the whole family – from the deer to field activities to the longest zip-line in Israel (400 meters long).
Camping and guided 4x4 vehicles tours are other attractions suitable for families. There are many types of overnight accommodations, including the high-quality new rooms and suites in the field school in Kfar Etzion.
Food lovers should visit Gavna restaurant; everything is fresh and delicious.www.imnaturephoto.com