Jezreel Valley is one of the biggest regions of Israel, as it is bordered by the Lower Galilee to the north, the Jordan Rift Valley to the east, the Carmel Mountain to the west, and the Samaria Mountains to the south. With a history that goes back 9.000 years, several historical sites of great importance, magnificent blooming in spring, and impressive landscapes, Jezreel Valley is truly a great region to explore.
The History of Jezreel Valley
Archaeological remains that were found in the Jezreel Valley, indicate the existence of an early settlement in the seventh millennium BC. It was an important region throughout history, thanks to the convenient passage it allows between the Mediterranean Coast and the Jordan Rift Valley. This passage was a continuation of the “Via Maris” from the 15th century BC, which connected Africa and Asia.
During the Hellenistic period, the importance of the valley had decreased, and during the Roman period, the area began to be covered by swamps. Following the swamps and floods in the valley, the settlement in it decreased and the only areas that remained inhabited and cultivated were the edges of the valley.
The re-settlement in the valley began in the middle of the 19th century, when German Templars settled in the valley, followed by Zionist Jews, who started to fight the swamps here at the beginning of the 20th century. As they successfully started developing the land, Jezreel Valley had attracted more and more residents, who built several new towns and kibbutzim. Today, most of the valley’s economy still revolves around agriculture.
Historical sites in Jezreel Valley
Tel Megiddo
A historical site of great importance, Tel Megiddo, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005, is a great visit for history lovers. The beginning of the settlement in Megiddo goes all the way back to the Neolithic period in the 7th millennium BC, a period when men began to settle in permanent settlements for the first time. In addition, the remains of a settlement from the Chalcolithic period (4th millennium BC) were also found here, as Remains of an apsidal building from this period were uncovered.
Megiddo was a very strong and significant city in ancient Canaan, around 1,500-1,200 BC, as in total, there had been 25 different cities on this land only. The remains of the palaces, temples, gates, and sophisticated water system of the place, which you can see during your visit here, testify to its great power in the old days. In Tel Megiddo, you can get an impression of various points of interest in the old city, including the city gate, the Canaanite palace, the area of the temples, the Aegean tomb, the Assyrian quarter, and the massive water plant that dates back to the 9th century BC.
You can tour around the spacious and impressive place independently or as part of a guided tour. Regardless, you should visit the Tel Megiddo garden during your visit here. From the garden, you will get impressive views of a major part of Jezreel Valley, alongside many rest and picnic areas.
Beit She’arim National Park
Beit She’arim National Park, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located near the town of Tivon, at the western edge of Jezreel Valley.
This ancient city was founded in the days of King Herod, in the 1st century BC, and has been an important town for a few centuries. Over time, although the town had lost its power, Beit She’arim had become a necropolis, making it a unique historical place to visit. Since Beit Shearim is the burial site of the important Rabi Judah ha-Nasi, who is one of the most important rabbis in Jewish history, many other Jewish people had requested to be buried in the caves during the Roman period. in the 20th century, various impressive historical sites have been found here, including a basilica, an ancient synagogue, and several important burial halls, which you can explore during your visit here.
Best natural attractions in Jezreel Valley
Mount Tabor
Mount Tabor is located on the northern border of the Jezreel Valley. As a mountain that impressively stands tall above its surroundings and is visible from afar, Mount Tabor has always attracted explorers, soldiers, and religious people throughout history. The visit here includes the magnificent Church of Transfiguration, which is located right at the summit. In addition, walking on the short Mount Tabor Summit Trail will provide you with some of the most epic views in Israel.
Harod Spring Nature Reserve
In this park flows a brook of the Harod spring that originates in a nearby cave. The park features spacious lawns, a large and attractive wading pool, picnic tables, and everything needed for family quality time in nature. In the peaceful Harod Spring Nature Reserve, you can find a great campground, ideal for a night out in the mild climate of Jezreel Valley. In addition, the Ma’ayan Harod Nature Reserve features a small museum and a memorial for 7 soldiers who had been killed during Israel’s War of Independence.
Operating hours:
October-March: 08:00 – 16:00
April – September: 08:00 – 17:00
Nahal Tzipori
Tzipori River starts in the Nazareth Mountains, near Moshav Tzipori, and drains into the Kishon River, which flows into the Mediterranean Sea. It is about 32 km long and is fed by several springs. It is also a great place to visit for nature lovers, as it features a few short, accessible hiking trails in the impressive landscapes of the area. It is best to arrive here during winter or spring when the river is surrounded by countless beautiful seasonal flowers, which blend great with the great views of Carmel mountain and the valley.
