Annual March Opens Access to Northern Dead Sea's Closed Military Zone
Translated & summarized from Ynet by baba
The annual "Rishonim of the Dead Sea" march will open a closed military zone in the northern Dead Sea area on October 23-24, allowing public access to abandoned monasteries and historical sites. Three routes of varying lengths are offered, featuring historical remnants and scenic views of the Jordan River and Dead Sea. Participation costs 50 shekels and requires advance online registration, with strict safety guidelines in place due to the area's sensitive nature. The event may be postponed due to weather.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- The "Rishonim of the Dead Sea" march grants access to a closed military zone in the northern Dead Sea on October 23-24.
- Three hiking routes, from 4 to 7.5 km, will explore abandoned monasteries and historical sites.
- The area was a closed military zone after 1967 due to security concerns and past infiltrations.
- Entry to the abandoned monasteries themselves is strictly prohibited during the march.
- Participation costs 50 shekels and requires advance online registration.
- Hikers must adhere to safety rules, including staying on marked paths due to potential mines.
For one weekend a year, a special opportunity arises for hikers to explore the normally restricted military zone in the northern Dead Sea region. The "Rishonim of the Dead Sea" march, taking place on October 23-24, will offer three walking routes ranging from 4 to 7.5 kilometers, suitable for families. These trails will lead participants through areas featuring abandoned monasteries, remnants of a historic kibbutz, and scenic views of the Jordan River and the Dead Sea.
The region, located near the Qasr al-Yahud baptismal site, was historically controlled by Jordan until the Six-Day War in 1967. Following the war, it became a frequent infiltration point, earning the name "Land of Pursuits." The monasteries, established by various Christian communities, were abandoned during the War of Attrition, and the area was closed to the public in the late 1960s and early 1970s due to security concerns. While the march allows access to these historical sites, entering the abandoned monasteries themselves remains strictly forbidden.
The march, organized by the Megilot Dead Sea Regional Council for the ninth year, includes explanatory signs and historical photographs along the routes. Participants will also encounter guides, actors, and jugglers. The shortest route (4 km) is an out-and-back path to the monasteries. A 6.5 km route extends to the site of the historical Kibbutz Beit Ha'arava, abandoned during the War of Independence. The longest route (7.5 km) goes to the area where the Jordan River empties into the Dead Sea, showcasing unique landscapes and old evaporation ponds of a historic potash plant.
Participation costs 50 shekels per person (ages 4 and up) and requires advance registration online, where participants select their route, date, and entry time. Entry is permitted until 12:00 PM, with all hikers required to exit the area by 3:00 PM. A participant kit, including an identification bracelet, must be collected beforehand. Hikers must stay on marked paths due to potential minefields and are advised to wear closed shoes, hats, and carry at least two liters of water. The longest route is not suitable for strollers, while the other two may accommodate them depending on ground conditions. The event may be postponed to October 30-31 in case of inclement weather.