February 23 – Forest Day & Ammunition Hill

Shalom!

This is our last forest day for CAARI 2105 and we are off to a very special forest, Sataf, This hillside forest is situated on the western fringes of Jerusalem. It is know for its ancient hillside agriculture, natural springs, all of which provide a beautiful nature reserve for hiking, picnicking and just being in the outdoors, This scenic JNF forest is a restored historical site which began around 6,000 years ago, in the Chalcolithic period. The terrace construction started around 4,500 years ago. and the site attained its greatest size and splendor in the Second Temple and Byzantine Periods. We arrived at the site along with many buses filled with students who were on a field trip to hike the area, which is part of the Israel National Trial.

Ammunition Hill

In the tradition of CAARI, the group trimmed trees, cleared away bush, and made a great impact in the area – what a difference! Our Holy Bagel picnic lunch was enjoyed by all in the middle of a restored terrace with spring wild flowers covering the ground. After lunch, we took a LONG walk down the paths and steps to the springs and finally to our awaiting bus!
Our visit to Ammunition Hill (Givat Hatachmoshet), is related to Sataf – to the amazement of Neil. Actually, one of the divisions during the Six Day War was stationed at Sataf as they awaited orders for battle. Ammunition Hill is the site of some of the bloodiest fighting during the Six Day War, as this area is where the Israeli paratroopers vied to oust entrenched Jordanian legionnaires in order to link central Jerusalem with the Israeli enclave on Mount Scopus. Thirty-seven troops lost their lives in the battle. Neil explained the battle, the bunkers and we saw an excellent video on the battle for Jerusalem. We also visited the Dedication Wall where we saw the memorial to Rabbi Rose.

Our day concluded with an interesting lecture on ‘Israel’s Economy in Times of Crisis!’

CAARI 2015

Ammunition Hill

The Canadian American Active Retirees in Israel, CAARI, offers active seniors a unique opportunity to experience Israel. The program is designed to explore the biblical landscapes, follow the footsteps of the early pioneers, and envision the future of our Homeland. The CAARI Program includes community service, tours, a speakers forum and the camaraderie of the CAARI Family. The Program is designed for to feel, touch, hear and see Israel from the mountains to the desert, from sea to sea, and from ancient to modern.

Links: Jewish National Fund USA : https://www.jnf.org/