Merhav Am, Religious settlement in Ramat Negev, Israel
Merhav Am is a religious community settlement situated at roughly 535 meters elevation between Sde Boker and Yeruham on a hilltop surrounded by rocky desert landscape. The settlement includes schools, kindergartens, a community center, and a synagogue.
The settlement was founded in 2001 as the first religious community built in the Ramat HaNegev region after development in the area had paused for 13 years. This marked a turning point in settlement activity in the desert region.
Residents come from many different countries and bring their own traditions with them. This diversity shapes daily life throughout the settlement.
The best way to explore the settlement is on foot, as the hilly terrain offers good views of the surroundings. Bring plenty of water since sun exposure is intense at this elevation and in the desert environment.
A significant portion of residents work in military or police roles, while others run small workshops and businesses. This mix of security personnel and craftspeople is unusual for such a small settlement.
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