Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 2014
Size of heritage: 349 ha
- Buffer zone: 624 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 35,131°
Latitude: 31,720°

Summary

This site is located a few kilometres south-west of Jerusalem, in the Central Highlands between Nablus and Hebron. The Battir hill landscape comprises a series of farmed valleys, known as widian, with characteristic stone terraces, some of which are irrigated for market garden production, while others are dry and planted with grapevines and olive trees. The development of terrace farming in such a mountainous region is supported by a network of irrigation channels fed by underground sources. A traditional system of distribution is then used to share the water collected through this network between families from the nearby village of Battir.

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Palestine: Land of Olives and Vines – Cultural Landscape of Southern Jerusalem, Battir

The UNESCO World Heritage site "Palestine: Land of Olives and Vines – Cultural Landscape of Southern Jerusalem, Battir" is located in the Palestinian Territory, specifically at coordinates N31 43 11 E35 7 50. This cultural landscape holds immense historical and cultural significance, representing the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature for centuries.

History

The history of this heritage site dates back thousands of years, with evidence of human settlement in the area since the Canaanite period. Battir, the village at the heart of this landscape, has witnessed the rise and fall of various civilizations, including the Romans, Byzantines, and Crusaders.

One of the most remarkable features of this site is its ancient agricultural terraces, which were built by the inhabitants of Battir over centuries. These terraces, supported by stone walls, allowed the cultivation of olives, grapes, and other crops on the steep slopes of the landscape. The irrigation system, known as "qanats," was developed to efficiently distribute water throughout the terraces.

During the Ottoman period, Battir became an important agricultural center, supplying Jerusalem and other nearby cities with its renowned olive oil and grapes. The village's economy thrived, and its cultural landscape flourished.

Current State

Today, the cultural landscape of Southern Jerusalem, Battir, faces numerous challenges due to political conflicts and urbanization. The construction of the Israeli separation barrier threatened the integrity of the site, as it would have divided the landscape and disrupted the traditional agricultural practices.

However, through the efforts of local communities, international organizations, and UNESCO, the site has been successfully preserved and recognized as a World Heritage site. The inscription in 2014 highlighted the importance of safeguarding the cultural and natural heritage of this unique landscape.

The cultural landscape of Southern Jerusalem, Battir, continues to be a living testimony to the sustainable practices of traditional agriculture. The terraces are still cultivated by local farmers, who maintain the ancient techniques passed down through generations. The olive groves and vineyards produce high-quality products, contributing to the local economy and preserving the cultural identity of the community.

Visitors to the site can explore the terraces, walk along the ancient irrigation channels, and witness the breathtaking beauty of the landscape. The site also offers a glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of the region, with archaeological remains and historical landmarks scattered throughout the area.

Efforts are ongoing to raise awareness about the importance of preserving this unique cultural landscape. Local communities, together with international organizations, are working towards sustainable development and promoting responsible tourism to ensure the long-term conservation of this World Heritage site.

The cultural landscape of Southern Jerusalem, Battir, stands as a testament to the harmonious relationship between humans and nature, showcasing the resilience and ingenuity of the people who have shaped this land for centuries.

Hotels and places to stay

RAMADAJERUSALEM HOTEL

Address
Distance: 5,8 mi
RUPPIN BRIDGE AT HERZL BLVD
91033 Jerusalem
Palestinian Territory

Time Information

Checkout: 11:00 - Checkin: 15:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed


BEIT YEHUDAH GUEST HOUSE

Address
Distance: 3,3 mi
1 HAIM KULITZ RD GIVAT MASSUAH
91090 Jerusalem
Palestinian Territory

Time Information

Checkout: - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed


RIMONIM JERUSALEM

Address
Distance: 4,7 mi
24 SHACHARAI ST BAIT VA GAN
96470 Jerusalem
Palestinian Territory

Time Information

Checkout: - Checkin: 15:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed


Ararat Hotel

Address
Distance: 5,0 mi
153 Beit Sahour Road
Bethlehem
Palestinian Territory

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 15:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed


Dome Hotel

Address
Distance: 4,4 mi
Bethelehem-Hebron St.
Bethlehem
Palestinian Territory

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed


Salam Hotel

Address
Distance: 4,5 mi
Manger St.-Opposite to Church of the nativity
1056 Bethlehem
Palestinian Territory

Time Information

Checkout: - Checkin:
Reception
Weekday: 0:00 - 0:00
Weekend: closed


Ein Kerem Hotel

Address
Distance: 3,4 mi
Kiryat Hadassah Ein Kerem
9112002 Jerusalem
Palestinian Territory

Time Information

Checkout: - Checkin:
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed


Alegra Boutique Hotel

Address
Distance: 3,8 mi
13 Derech Ha’achayot
95746 Jerusalem
Palestinian Territory

Time Information

Checkout: - Checkin:
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed


Tzuba Hotel

Address
Distance: 4,5 mi
Kibbutz Tzuba
9087000 Jerusalem
Palestinian Territory

Time Information

Checkout: 11:00 - Checkin: 15:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed


Royal Wing Hotel

Address
Distance: 5,8 mi
Ruppin Bridge at Herzl Boulevard
91033 Jerusalem
Palestinian Territory

Time Information

Checkout: 11:00 - Checkin: 15:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed


Videos from the area

Battir spring - عين بتير

Published: January 13, 2013
Length: 08:02 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Nail I ObeidAllah

2013 Battir spring - عين وبركة بتير , تصوير نائل عبيد الله & نور مصطفى , بتير في صور , اخبار بتير , قرية بتير الرجاء رفع...

Battir clarity of sensations بتير جلاء السمع والبصر ..... اخراج نبيل ابو لبن

Published: April 21, 2014
Length: 45:59 min
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: nab lab

فيلم بتير جلاء السمع والبصر هو محاوله استقصائيه داخل الذات الفلسطينيه والموروث الثقافي الذي يمتد عبر الالا...

منظر عام لقرية بتير من داخل القطار

Published: September 22, 2012
Length: 21:46 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Saed Ayyash

منظر للمناطق التي يمر فيها القطار من قرية بتير.

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