Metsad Saharonim, Archaeological site in Negev Desert, Israel
Metsad Saharonim is a fortress ruin located inside the Ramon Crater with preserved stone walls and architectural structures dating back to ancient times. The remains show multiple rooms and spaces that once served for living, storage, and daily activities of its inhabitants.
The fortress was built in the first century as a strategic point along a major trade route connecting the Arabian region with Mediterranean ports. It served as a key location for merchant caravans traveling through this area.
The site reflects how Nabataean people organized their settlement through visible stone structures and building designs that adapted to desert life. Walking through the ruins, you can see how they arranged spaces for daily activities and survival in this harsh environment.
Visiting the site requires about a one-hour hike through the crater, with guided tours available to help understand the location better. The terrain is uneven and rocky, so bring sturdy shoes and plenty of water for the walk.
The fortress sat beside a desert spring that was vital for merchant caravans before they began their difficult journey through the crater's northern edge. This water source made the location an essential resting place on the long trade route.
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