Beit El, Israeli settlement in the West Bank
Beit El is a settlement in the West Bank situated on hills north of Jerusalem, with a mix of homes, schools, and religious buildings built close together. The streets are lined with houses featuring gardens, and on clear days the views stretch across the surrounding landscape toward distant natural landmarks.
According to biblical tradition, Abraham built an altar here and Jacob later spent a night at the site, experiencing his famous dream of a heavenly ladder. The modern settlement was established in the late 1970s following Israel's control of the region in 1967, and has expanded steadily since then.
The name Beit El means House of God in Hebrew, rooted in biblical times when Abraham built an altar here. Today you can see how this spiritual connection shapes the daily rhythms of residents, from prayer times echoing through streets to community gatherings centered on religious observance and family traditions.
The location sits on hillside terrain with paved streets and steps in some areas, so wearing comfortable walking shoes is important. Bring water during warm months, as shade is limited in parts of the settlement, and plan your visit during daylight hours when streets are more active.
Springs with clear water surround the settlement, home to rare plants and insects, while ancient limestone formations and wild ivy create a natural backdrop to the residential areas. This combination of archaeological significance and preserved natural landscapes allows visitors to experience both the historical depth and ecological character of the region in a single visit.
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