Israel Reopens Rare Pulsating Spring Ein Maboa After Nearly Three Years

After being closed to the public for almost three years, the rare pulsating spring Ein Maboa reopened this Wednesday morning. Israeli historian and guide Israel Shapira was the first to arrive at 8 a.m., where he immersed himself in the spring's clear, pure waters. Entry is currently free but requires prior registration, similar to other sites managed by the Israel Nature and Parks Authority. The site has undergone renovations and now appears well-maintained.

Ein Maboa is one of only about 100 pulsating springs worldwide, a rare geological phenomenon where water accumulates in an underground cave and periodically bursts forth into a pool before draining away again. The spring is also known by its Arabic name, Ein Fawar, meaning "the bubbling." An old local legend speaks of two spirits battling beneath the spring, with water flow depending on which spirit prevails.

Geographically, Ein Maboa is located along the Wadi Qelt (Nahal Prat) stream, which runs about 30 kilometers through the Judean Desert from the Jerusalem area to the Jericho Valley near the Jordan River. The stream is fed by three major springs: Ein Prat upstream, Ein Maboa in the middle, and Ein Qelt near Jericho. Historically, during the Hasmonean period, an aqueduct was built here to supply water to winter palaces and agricultural lands near Jericho. Herod the Great later expanded the water system to his desert fortresses, including the luxurious Kipros fortress.

In the early 20th century under the British Mandate, the spring served as a water source for Jerusalem, with pumping stations still visible today. The article also recounts a failed Nazi operation in 1944 involving German and Arab agents parachuting into the area to incite rebellion against British rule.

Visitors are reminded to comply with safety regulations and register in advance with the Nature and Parks Authority. The author, Israel Shapira, is a senior lecturer and researcher specializing in the history and geography of the Land of Israel.