Tel Afek, Archaeological site and nature reserve in Kiryat Bialik, Israel
Tel Afek is a nature reserve and archaeological site featuring wetlands, marshes, and diverse plant and animal life. The location also contains the remains of a two-story Crusader fortress with a water-powered mill structure.
The site shows settlement traces from the Chalcolithic through Middle Bronze Age periods, with tombs and pottery from various ancient cultures. Later, Crusaders built a fortress with mills that triggered significant water disputes with the Templars.
The location holds biblical significance as the ancient town of Aphik, mentioned in the Book of Joshua as a settlement of the Tribe of Asher. Local people have long valued the abundant water sources for farming and daily life.
Marked trails wind through the area, offering good spots for wildlife viewing and exploration of the fortress remains. Sturdy footwear and sun protection are wise choices, especially in the wetter sections of the reserve.
The Hospitallers took over the water mills in 1154 and established one of the early European waterpower installations in the Middle East. This technological innovation was unusual for the region at that time and shaped the site's infrastructure for generations.
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