Vast Ancient Cistern Discovered in Southern Hebron Hills

A remarkably large ancient cistern, measuring approximately ten by twenty meters and five meters deep, has been discovered in the Yatir region of the southern Hebron Hills. The cistern, accessible via a fixed iron ladder through a southeastern opening, offers an open view westward towards Beit Shemesh. The discovery was made by a group of hikers led by Haim Habshush, who named it "The Nephilim Cistern" due to its proximity to Hebron, referencing the biblical "sons of Anak" mentioned by the spies in the Book of Numbers. The name was later officially changed to "David and Ahikam Cistern" in memory of individuals who perished. Despite the author's general preference for natural springs over water cisterns, the sheer scale and clarity of the water, visible up to two meters deep, evoked the feeling of a spring. The site now features signage and a bench, and can be located via Waze by searching for "David and Ahikam Cistern."