En Hemed National Park

En Hemed National Park, also known by its Latin name Aqua Bella (“beautiful water”), is a serene oasis nestled in the Judean Hills, just west of Jerusalem. This picturesque park spans 600 meters along the banks of the Kesalon Stream and offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational activities.

Historical Background
Natural Beauty and Recreation
Cultural Significance

Historical Background

The park’s name, En Hemed, is derived from its Arabic counterpart, Hirbet Ikbala, which also preserves the essence of the Latin “Aqua Bella.” The site is steeped in history, with evidence of its significance dating back to Roman times. A Roman road, once part of the ancient “Emmaus road,” traversed this region, connecting the coastal plain to the Jerusalem hills. This road remained in use well into the Crusader period.

During the Crusader era, between 1140 and 1160 CE, the Hospitaller order constructed a fortified farmhouse at En Hemed. This structure, which has survived remarkably well, was part of the Kingdom of Jerusalem’s efforts to secure routes to the holy city and protect pilgrims. The farmhouse, with its impressive two-story rectangular design and fortified walls, served both as a residence and a defensive stronghold.

Natural Beauty and Recreation

One of the park’s main attractions is the En Hemed Spring, a layered spring with the highest discharge rate in the park. The water emerges where permeable dolomite layers meet an impermeable layer of marl, creating a steady flow that has long been admired for its purity and beauty.

Visitors to En Hemed can enjoy a variety of activities, including leisurely walks along the stream, exploring the ancient Crusader farmhouse, and picnicking in the well-maintained park areas. The park’s management has enhanced the natural landscape with shaded picnic spots, expansive lawns, and accessible trails, making it a perfect destination for families and nature lovers.

Cultural Significance

En Hemed has also played a role in Jewish cultural practices. The spring was historically visited by Jewish communities during the Rosh Hashanah festival for the tashlich ceremony, where participants would symbolically cast away their sins into the water. The spring was also believed to have special properties that could bring good luck, particularly to women about to give birth.

En Hemed National Park offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of nature and history, providing a peaceful retreat with a rich cultural and historical backdrop.
 

Sources: Meital Sharabi, “Walks and waters in En Hemed,” Jerusalem Post, (October 3, 2018).
“Aqua Bella, Israel,” israelandyou.com.
“Aqua Bella Castle,” spottinghistory.com.
En Hemed National Park. “En Hemed National Park,” Signage at En Hemed National Park, Israel.
En Hemed National Park. “The En Hemed Spring,” Signage at En Hemed National Park, Israel.
En Hemed National Park. “The Crusader farmhouse,” Signage at En Hemed National Park, Israel.

Photos: Provided to the author by Mitchell Bard.