MOUNT CARMEL

The term "Mount Carmel" refers to a coastal mountain range in northern Israel that is 40 km long and roughly 9 km wide. It extends from the Mediterranean Sea to Jenin (Nablus) and the West Bank in the southeast. The mountain range features a steep ridge in the northeast and a gradual slope in the southwest. Located in a strategic location to the northeast between the sea and the Jezreel Valley, the Carmel Mountain Range acts as a natural barrier separating the valley from the coastal plain. This is a large area with numerous historical sites, religious sites, cities, and hiking trails—not just one mountain as previously stated.

Three ancient passages from the Mediterranean Sea to the Jordan Valley existed throughout the Carmel Range, and Mt. Carmel was also located on the famous road called the  "Via Maris" making it a significant place. As a UNESCO World Reserve, Mount Carmel is home to many notable sites, towns, and landmarks. The mount's most well-known city Haifa is located in the seaside, also known as the capital of the North, The Bahai Gardens, Atlit, Wineries, and many more. The Hebrew translation for "freshly planted" is where the name "Carmel" originates since it's one of the greenest and most fertile sections of the country. Numerous caves, volcanic rocks, and thick forests of pine, olive, laurel, and oak trees are found on the slopes of the summit.

Mount Carmel National Park and Nature Reserve

This a picturesque natural area located in northern Israel. It spans over 25,000 acres, encompassing diverse ecosystems ranging from Mediterranean scrublands to lush forests. This reserve is known for its rich biodiversity, hosting a wide array of plant and animal species such as Foxes, Jackals, Wild Bores, and many more.

One of the highlights of Mount Carmel National Park is the stunning Carmel Ridge, offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding Carmel landscape. The park also boasts several famous Carmel hiking trails, providing opportunities for outdoor lovers to explore the natural beauty of this stunning region.

Additionally, the park holds historical and cultural significance, with archaeological sites dating back thousands of years. Notably, it is associated with the biblical figure Elijah, and there's a cave believed to be his hiding place. also, you can find the Druze Hospitality Center where you can participate in culinary workshops and enjoy the local cuisine.

Massive forest fires that were largely caused by human activity, but also by weather changes, struck the park between 1992 and 2014, destroying many of the area's priceless forests along with the wildlife. Substantial attempts have been undertaken ever since to successfully transplant the trees and recover nature.

Overall, Mount Carmel National Park and Nature Reserve offers a unique blend of natural beauty, ecological importance, and cultural heritage, making it a popular destination for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts visiting Israel.

Prophet Elijah and Mount Carmel

Prophet Elijah is linked to the biblical history of Mount Carmel, particularly in the context of a dramatic confrontation between the prophet and the prophets of the pagan god Baal.

The story unfolds in the First Book of Kings, chapter 18. Israel was facing a severe drought, and Elijah challenged the prophets of Baal to a contest to demonstrate the true power of God. The challenge was to see which deity, Yahweh (the God of Israel) or Baal, could send fire from the heavens to consume a sacrificial offering.

Elijah and the prophets of Baal gathered on Mount Carmel, an elevated plateau in northern Israel. The prophets of Baal prayed fervently and even performed rituals, but nothing happened. In contrast, Elijah confidently drenched his offering with water, calling upon God.

In a stunning display of divine intervention, fire descended from the sky, consuming the soaked sacrifice, altar, and even the surrounding water. This miraculous event affirmed the supremacy of the God of Israel and led to the defeat and subsequent execution of the prophets of Baal.

Mount Carmel thus became a symbol of God's power and Elijah's unwavering faith. The event is celebrated in Jewish, Christian, and even Druze traditions, as Mount Carmel holds significance for various faiths. Elijah revered as a courageous prophet, is often associated with miracles and divine intervention in times of great need. His story remains an integral part of biblical narrative and religious teachings.

What are the Sacred Locations on Mt. Carmel?

1)Religious ceremonies have been held atop Mount Carmel for centuries. The biblical description of its elevated location suggests that ancient societies like the Canaanites saw it as a suitable site for offering sacrifices to several gods. There is a Hebrew god's altar atop the mount, according to the Books of Kings. According to the Book of Prophet Amos, Mount Carmel is a location where people can go to hide from God after committing crimes and wicked acts. The beauty and vegetation of the top of the Mountain are mentioned 21 times in other Old Testament references. The mountain is depicted in the Bible as a place that is extremely green and fertile.

KINGS 19:23

By thy messengers, thou hast reproached the Lord, and hast said, With the multitude of my chariots I am come up to the height of the mountains, to the sides of Lebanon, and will cut down the tall cedar trees thereof, and the choice fir trees thereof: and I will enter into the lodgings of his borders, and the forest of his Carmel.

SONG OF SOLOMON 7:5

Thine head upon thee is like Carmel, and the hair of thine head like purple; the king is held in the galleries.

JEREMIAH 50:19

And I will bring Israel again to his habitation, and he shall feed on Carmel and Bashan, and his soul shall be satisfied upon Mount Ephraim and Gilead.

SAMUEL 15:12

And when Samuel rose early to meet Saul in the morning, it was told Samuel, saying, Saul came to Carmel, and, behold, he set him up a place and is gone about, and passed on, and gone down to Gilgal.

2)Druze Holy Sites of Mount Carmel:  the location has great importance to the Druze community. The Druze consider it a sacred mountain, and there are various shrines and holy sites scattered throughout the area.

Nabi Sihfi (Prophet Shafi) Shrine:  This shrine is dedicated to Nabi Shafi, whom the Druze believe was a prophet. It is located on the northern slopes of Mount Carmel and is a place of pilgrimage and prayer for the Druze community.2)

Nabi Sihfi Forest: This forest, named after the shrine, is a significant natural area on Mount Carmel. It is a place of spiritual reflection and communal gatherings for the Druze.

Nabi Matiyya (Prophet Matiyya) Shrine: Located near the Druze town of Isfiya on Mount Carmel, this shrine is dedicated to Nabi Matiyya, who is also considered a prophet by the Druze.

Aldia: Aldia is a Druze religious and cultural center on Mount Carmel. It serves as a gathering place for religious ceremonies, discussions, and community events.

3)Elijah's Cave, According to tradition, this cave on Mount Carmel's top is where the prophet Elijah sought refuge and had a spiritual encounter with God before the battle with the Ball Prophets. It is a sacred site for Jews, Christians, and Muslims.to reach the cave you have to the a short tail from the Stella Maris church.

4)Muhraqa: This site is associated with the showdown between the prophet Elijah and the prophets of Baal. It is believed to be where Elijah called down fire from heaven to consume his sacrifice, demonstrating the power of the God of Israel.

5)Stella Maris - situated on top of Mount Carmel, the Stella Maris Monastery offers an incredible viewpoint of the endless sea. The Carmelite Catholic Order, a religious community with roots in the 12th century and the legacy of the Crusades, holds this sacred site as its spiritual center.

Entering this sacred space is like traveling back in time, as there is a small cave beneath the monastery's foundation that is thought to be the dwelling place of the holy prophet Elijah. The Carmel Range was home to a long-standing custom of people living in these natural havens, reminiscent of a time when many people came to these ancient hills seeking comfort and spiritual connection.

The monastery's facade embraces a magnificent monument honoring the great Prophet Elijah. This sculpture honors a turning point in holy history—the successful demonstration of the holy god over the false prophets of Baal.

Jewish communities on Mount Carmel

1)Zichron Yaakov: Founded in 1882 by the Rothchild family and populated during the early days by 350 Jews from Romania, Zichron Yaakov is a picturesque town nestled at the southern base of the Carmel Range well known for its flushing wine industry, glass production, and hospitality. It holds historical importance as one of the earliest modern Jewish settlements of the holy land before the state of Israel was born. Today, it is a thriving community with a vibrant Jewish population, known for its cultural heritage and beautiful paved pedestrian streets with gift shops and great ice cream.

2)Ein Hod: Located on Mount Carmel's Western side, Ein Hod is an artists' village. It was established in 1953 by Jewish artists and has become a hub for creativity and cultural activities. The village has a strong Jewish presence and is known for its artistic community. today you can find glass and painting workshops and very peaceful cafes.

3)Haifa: Haifa is the largest city in northern Israel and is located at the base of Mount Carmel. It boasts a diverse population, half of the city is Jewish and the second is Arab. Haifa is the best example of co-existence between the Jews and Arabs in Israel. Haifa is well known for its culinary scene with great restaurants, important landmarks such as the Bahai Gardens, its heavy industry, and the port which hosts tourists cruise ships, and the Israeli navy.

4)Or Akiva: Situated near the Mediterranean coast, just south of Mount Carmel, Or Akiva is a small city with a diverse Jewish population. the population of Or Akiva mostly immigrated from Uzbekistan and North Africa. during the COVID-19 period, the city was expanded and became 30 % bigger, and young families are populating the new part today.

5)Bat Shlomo: Located further south, at the foothills of the Carmel Range, Bat Shlomo was also established by the Rothchild Foundation in 1889 and was named after Beth De Rotchilld. Bat Shlomo is a picturesque community known for its agricultural traditions and cattle industry.

Muslim Communities on Mount Carmel

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is a religious movement within Islam that was founded in the late 19th century. It emerged in the town of Qadian, Punjab, India, in 1889 under the leadership of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (1835-1908), who claimed to be the awaited Mahdi (Guided One) and the Promised Messiah prophesied in Islamic tradition.

The Ahmadiyya community is known for its peaceful interpretation of Islam and its efforts to promote interfaith dialogue and understanding. In Haifa, as in other places around the world, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community likely engages in activities such as religious gatherings, educational initiatives, and outreach programs to promote their message of peace and unity.

The well-known monument on Mount Carmel - The Bahai Gardens

In the Heart of Haifa, you can find the famous Baha'i Gardens, one of the main attractions of the Carmel Mount! this amazing landmark stretches like a vibrant carpet along the slopes of Mount Carmel, offering a breathtaking sight of the 4th monotheistic religion of the world. With 19 enchanting terraces and almost 1000 steps, this cascading masterpiece is more than just a garden - it's a testament to unity and harmony.

As you stroll down the central path, you'll be greeted by whimsical statues, bubbling fountains, and meticulously manicured lawns. A dedicated team of 300 volunteers ensures that every petal and leaf is in perfect harmony. At the heart of it all lies a small, pristine shrine crowned by a golden dome, the eternal resting place of The Bab, the revered founder of the Baha'i faith.

Whether you choose to explore the gardens with a guided tour or stand in astonishment at the panoramic balcony, one thing's for sure - the Baha'i Gardens offer a glimpse into a world of beauty, spirituality, and tranquility. It's a journey you won't want to miss!"

Bonus site:Ramat Hanadiv

Situated at the southernmost point of the Carmel Range in northern Israel, Ramat Hanadiv is a magnificent nature park and memorial garden. It was created in 1954 as a memorial and the burial site of Baron Edmond de Rothschild, a well-known advocate for the early settling of Jews in Israel. The park is more than 460 acres in size and has a variety of terrain, including Mediterranean scrublands, gardens, and forests.

Explore a variety of attractions, such as exquisitely designed gardens, hiking paths, and archaeological sites, when visiting Ramat Hanadiv. The park serves as a focal point for environmental awareness and an appreciation of nature by hosting cultural and educational events.

Best Hiking Trails of Mount Carmel

1)The Carmel Trail (Shvil HaCarmel): This is the main hiking trail that traverses the entire length of Mount Carmel, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Jezreel Valley.

2)Little Switzerland Trail: Known for its lush vegetation and diverse flora, this trail takes you through enchanting forests and offers picturesque views.

3)Nahal Mearot Nature Reserve: This reserve is home to ancient prehistoric caves and archaeological sites. The trail allows you to explore these fascinating remnants of early human history.

4)Oren River Park Trail: Following the Oren Stream, this trail offers a pleasant walk through woodlands and along the riverbanks, with opportunities for picnicking and relaxation.

5)Yagur Stream Trail: This trail leads along a refreshing stream with beautiful pools and waterfalls, providing a great option for a refreshing hike.

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