Bethlehem Governorate

Hidden gems in Bethlehem Governorate

Hidden Gems of Judea and the Dead Sea

This collection highlights the hidden natural and historical sites of the Judean wilderness and Gush Etzion. It features perennial layer springs like Ein El-Baled and Ein Yitzhak, which served as vital water sources for ancient and modern settlers. The list includes significant archaeological sites such as the Muraba'at Caves, known for Bar Kokhba-era scrolls, and Dudim's Cave in Ein Gedi. Memorials and vantage points offer insights into the region's 20th-century history and Byzantine monastic heritage.

Hidden Gems of Judea and the Dead Sea — Map

A

Ein El-Baled

Also known as Ein Itamar, this layer spring is located within the Judean Mountains National Park along the Israel National Trail.

B

Ein Yitzhak

A natural spring north of Bat Ayin featuring a stone-built pool. It is also known as Ein Sajma and was renamed in memory of Yitzhak Weinstock.

C

Lamed He Memorial

A memorial commemorating the 35 Haganah soldiers who fell in January 1948 while attempting to reinforce the besieged settlements of Gush Etzion.

D

Tzpyt l mnzr l qwsyyr (swzkyym)

An observation point overlooking the ruins of the Al-Qusayr monastery, a Byzantine-era site in the Judean Desert.

E

Yn hwblh

A layer spring also known as Ein Masu'ot, located near Bat Ayin. It historically served as the water source for the original Masu'ot Yitzhak kibbutz.

F

Dudim's Cave

Located at the top of the David Falls in the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve, this cave features a secluded natural pool and waterfall.

G

Muraba'at Caves

Caves in Nahal Darga where archaeological finds include Bar Kokhba revolt documents and artifacts from the Chalcolithic period.

Other Lists

Bethlehem Essentials Sacred Sites