subject: Israel Guide to Jerusalem Hills: From Samson to David [print this page] Israel Guide to Jerusalem Hills: From Samson to David
Our Israel guide tour to the Jerusalem hills starts at the President's Forest. Near the forest 's entrance is the site traditionally regarded as the burial place of Dan , son of the patriarch Jacob .We will continue along the forest's Sculpture Trail until we reach Tel Tzora, from here we can view the Jerusalem hills to the east .The view in front of us is that of the Tzorah Eshtaol region where according to Israel Guide books is the region that Samson came from. Nearby lived the Philistines who periodically harassed the tribe Of Dan and the rest of the Israelites.
We will continue through the forest to the Tomb of Samson and Manoah and then to the Kibbutz Tzora access road, which continues to Dir Rafat Monastery.On the decoratively painted ceiling of the church we can see Ave Maria prayers in hundreds of languages.The monastery also has a winery and olive press.
Next we will continue our Israel guide route to Beit Jamal Monastery .
According to Christian tradition Rabban Gamliel and st,Stephen are buried here. One may visit the restored ancient church and view the famous mosaics .A group of nuns have settled here who lead a unique lifestyle.
We continue southward and via a lovely forest road, will climb up to Tel Azeka.Werecommend totake with us a bible and make our way to the top of the hill .The view here is breathtaking and fully rewards the short but steep climb . Particularly impressive is the view of the Ela Valley that spreds out from the foot of the hill. This is the site of the famed battle between David and Goliath.
Not far to the south is the Biet Guvrin National Park, one of the popular Israel tourist attractions in the region.
The lowlands hills consist mainly of soft limestone rock which can be easily quarried . In the lowlands area are thousands of man-made caves that served as living quarters , bell shaped mines, water cisterns, burial caves, olive presses, storehouses etc: an amazing underground city, parts of which have been made accessible to tourists.
