Valley of Elah – Park Opens

June 4, 2008

Now there is a new attraction. The Jewish National Fund and the Israel Antiquities Authority have presented a new national park to the State of Israel as part of the 60th anniversary celebrations. The park contains many Second Temple period antiquities, which are highlighted in the 50,000 dunam (12,500 acre) park. The archaeological site was uncovered in 2000–2001 by archaeologists Amir Ganor and Dr. Boaz. Several ancient sites in the area have been renovated, including Etri and Burgin, which were heavily populated in the Second Temple period and are mentioned in The Jewish War by Josephus.

If you don’t feel like walking, use the new single-track mountain bike path. The park sports 28 kilometers (17 miles) of bike paths.

By the Israel Ministry of Tourism

Photo Credit: www.israelimages.com/HananIsachar