Ein Yorkeam - Overview (BibleWalks.com) скачать в хорошем качестве

Ein Yorkeam - Overview (BibleWalks.com)

Ein Yorkeam is a breathtaking desert oasis located where the Hatira Stream carves a deep limestone canyon through the rugged Negev landscape. Nahal Hatira is the primary stream that drains the Hamakhtesh Hagadol (Large Crater, Makhtesh Yeruham ). It starts inside the crater, cuts through the massive eastern wall of the "rim," falls into Ein Yorkeam, and heads toward the Arava Valley. The site is famous for its massive natural "potholes" and deep pools that store seasonal floodwaters long into the dry summer months, sustained by the shade of the towering canyon walls. As you descend toward the water, you'll notice ancient steps carved directly into the limestone. These date back to the Roman and Byzantine periods—the very same era as the nearby fortress. This spring served as the primary water source for the soldiers stationed nearby and for the exhausted travelers and camel caravans navigating the grueling desert trek from the Scorpions' Ascent. Remains of the Roman camp at Ein Yorkeam are seen upstream near the highway, on the side of Hatira brook. It follows a classic compact, Late Roman castellum (small fortress) design. It was built to guard the vital water source and the strategic junction where the ascent from the Arava Valley meets the route to the northern Negev. The plan is roughly square, measuring approximately 22 x 22 meters, designed for a small, permanent garrison of roughly 25 to 50 soldiers. The plan of the fortress is based on a central courtyard, with 8 rooms around it. The fortress was built from sturdy, roughly dressed limestone blocks. The walls are 1.5m thick with towers on each corner. An entrance is located on the northern wall, seen here on the right side, facing the path down to the spring. A cistern is located just outside the walls. Today, it remains a critical ecological landmark, serving as a primary watering hole for local wildlife and a stunning destination for hikers exploring the ancient trade routes of the Scorpions' Ascent. Reference: "The road that bears the People", Tepper & Tepper, 2013; pp. 177-181