Lotz Cisterns, Ancient water cisterns in Negev Mountains, Israel.
Lotz Cisterns is an archaeological site with 17 rock-hewn water cisterns in the Negev Mountains near Mount Ramon. The cisterns spread across roughly 2 square kilometers and show the ingenious building methods used to store water in this dry region.
The cisterns were built during the Israelite period, though archaeological finds also show Canaanite artifacts that hint at even earlier origins. The site documents a long history of human settlement and water use in this harsh area.
The site shows ancient water storage methods that inhabitants developed over generations to survive in the dry desert. These structures provide insight today into how people adapted to the region's harsh conditions.
Access is via Route 171, which also connects to a nearby camping area where visitors can explore the site independently. During winter months, water collects in eight cisterns, which may affect conditions at the location.
The remote location offers excellent conditions for stargazing due to minimal artificial light in the surrounding desert landscape. In this dark setting, visitors can see the night sky clearly, providing a rare experience.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
