Historical Background: Ein Tzuba is a spring located near Kibbutz Tzuba, which has a rich historical and geological background. Over the years, the source of the spring's water has retreated due to the lowering of the groundwater level. To address this, the spring's channel was extended multiple times.
Geological Features: The spring's flow was originally channeled through an open trench, which was later covered and converted into a tunnel. This tunnel was filled with stones and soil. Approximately 43 meters from its origin, the channel's bottom was about 6-7 meters below the surface. It was dug through various geological layers, including the dolomite of the Amminadav Formation, a soft layer of Motza clay, and into the saturated dolomite aquifer of the Beit Meir Formation. At this point, the tunnel branched into two directions: northeast and northwest.
Construction and Expansion: The workers expanded and connected the two branches by carving out a large underground cavity resembling a cave. The water from the Beit Meir dolomite aquifer flowed from the bottom of this cavity. Over the years, the ceiling of this carved space collapsed due to the instability of the soft Motza clay layer, which further contributed to the unique geological structure of the spring.
British Mandate Period: During the British Mandate period, the British authorities recognized the importance of Ein Tzuba and utilized it for agricultural purposes. They installed pumping machinery to efficiently manage and harness the spring water, ensuring a steady supply for irrigation and other needs. These installations are a testament to the technological advancements and efforts to modernize agriculture in the region during that time.
Visiting Ein Tzuba
Ein Tzuba remains a popular destination for visitors interested in both its natural beauty and historical significance. The combination of ancient agricultural practices, geological formations, and the remnants of British-era machinery provides a rich tapestry of history and nature for visitors to explore.
For more information on the historical and geological significance of Ein Tzuba, you can refer to local historical resources and guided tours offered by Kibbutz Tzuba. These tours often include detailed explanations of the spring's history, geological features, and the British installations.
Start at Har Adar: Begin your journey at Har Adar, the highest point in the Jerusalem area. This strategic location has always provided a commanding view over the region, and it still offers stunning vistas of Jerusalem and the surrounding hills. The historical significance of Har Adar is tied to its role in various military conflicts, including the 1948 Arab-Israeli War and the Six-Day War.
Visit Kibbutz Kiryat Anavim: Next, drive to Kibbutz Kiryat Anavim, where you can delve into the rich history and emotional stories of the pioneers who established this community. One notable tale is that of Itamar Ben-Avi, the son of Eliezer Ben-Yehuda, the reviver of the Hebrew language, and his love story with a girl from the Abu Shadid family, leading to the creation of the legendary restaurant Muma. At Muma, you can taste their famous Kubaneh bread and enjoy other delicious dishes in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Kiryat Anavim Cemetery: After lunch, take a moment to visit the Kiryat Anavim Cemetery. This cemetery holds the graves of many who fought in the battles for Jerusalem's corridor. It's a poignant place that tells the story of the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers and pioneers who shaped the history of this area.
Explore Ein Tzuba and the Israel National Trail: Cross to the other side of the road to Jerusalem and embark on a short hike to Ein Tzuba. This natural spring is a refreshing stop, and the brief walk along the Israel National Trail allows you to breathe in the crisp air and enjoy the scent of pine trees. The area around Ein Tzuba is rich in both natural beauty and historical significance, making it a perfect spot for a brief respite.
Visit Belmont Crusader Fortress: Continue your exploration with a visit to the Belmont Crusader Fortress, located on Tel Tzuba. The fortress, aptly named "beautiful hill," offers not only historical insights into the Crusader period but also breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The well-preserved walls and the strategic location of the fortress illustrate its historical importance.
Wine Tasting at Tzuba Winery: End your day with a relaxing wine tasting at Tzuba Winery. Here, you can sample a variety of high-quality wines produced from the vineyards that have thrived in the fertile soil of the Jerusalem hills. The serene setting of the winery, combined with the excellent wines, provides a perfect conclusion to your day of exploration and discovery.
Summary: This day trip in the Jerusalem hills offers a rich tapestry of historical sites, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. From the heights of Har Adar to the depths of historical stories at Kiryat Anavim, and from the natural beauty of Ein Tzuba to the historical marvel of Belmont Fortress, each stop adds a unique layer to your journey. Ending the day with a wine tasting at Tzuba Winery ensures that your trip is both memorable and fulfilling.
Don't be afraid to get lost in new places!
