In 1596, the village of Walaja was mentioned in the Ottoman tax registers as a village of the Haliva of Quds (Jerusalem). Six hundred fifty-five people lived there and paid a fixed tax of one-third on agricultural products, including wheat, barley, summer crops, vines or fruit trees, and goats or beehives. In 1838, it was noted as a Muslim village in the Bnei Hassan district west of Jerusalem. During the second half of the 19th century, al-Walajah was the administrative seat of the Beni Hassan district, which included ten villages, including al-Khadr, Soba, Beit Jala, Ein Karim, and al-Maliha, and its suburbs. It was the throne village of the Al-Absia family.
This day trip in the Judean Mountains south of the Jerusalem Mountains reveals hidden wonders surrounding Israel's capital. At the centre of things are Nahal Rafaim and its surroundings. We will start with a spectacular view over Nahal Refaim, go down to Ein Itamar, reach Ein Lavan, cross the stream, and visit Ein Haniya. Then, for dessert, we will go to the highest mountain in the area, Mount Gila, and learn the history and story of the place. The most recommended season is spring, the month of March, when the almond blossoms, primroses and lupines, lavender and Lof blossom, anemones and orchids hide between the rocks. Have a nice trip!
TIP: It is better to travel in two cars in a friendly company, leaving one car in the parking lot of Emek Refaim Park and getting to the start of the route in the other vehicle. Then, having completed the walking part in Ein Haniya, return to the car in the parking lot in Emek Refaim Park, rejoin the first car and climb Mount Gilo together and complete the route. Of course, travelling independently to any point on the road is possible.