Located in southern Israel, Arad is a majestic setting for hiking and exploring the desert regions of Israel south of Jerusalem.
The city of Arad in Israel’s southern district was established in 1962 as the first planned city in the Jewish state.
Founded as a development town that until 1964 had only 160 families, its current population, numbering 27,000, represents a broad spectrum of Israeli society. The city is expected to expand to 50,000 by 2020.
Residents include native Israelis as well as immigrants from various countries such as Russia and Ethiopia. Renowned literary figure Amos Oz, a Jerusalem-born Israeli and professor of literature at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, lives there.
Bordering on the Judean Desert and the Negev, Arad is situated 48 km. east of Be’er Sheva – the largest city in southern Israel – and 24 km. west of the Dead Sea. The elevation is approximately 600 meters above sea level.
Arad has a breathtaking desert landscape and a dry climate; it is known for its mild climate and natural healing properties. The fresh, pollution-free air attracts asthmatics from around the world. In fact, its residents are especially committed to maintaining a clean environment.
A modern, well-kept small city with a high standard of living, Arad has made the educational system a priority and has invested in innovative programs.
Landmarks include the ruins of Tel Arad, a biblical Canaanite town (eight km. west of the modern city) that was famous for its pottery, as well as Arad Park, a domestic airfield and Israel’s first legal race circuit. On the outskirts is a large, white monument called Mitzpe Mo’av that offers a magnificent view of the Judean Desert.
During the reign of the kings of Judah, Tel Arad, now a major archeological dig and tourist attraction, was fortified a number of times until it was destroyed between 597 BCE and 577 BCE by Babylonian king Nebuchadnezzar. Jerusalem was under siege at the same time.
During the Persian period (4th and 5th centuries BCE), nearly 100 ostracon and pottery were engraved in Aramaic; they were mostly accounts of locals who carried items such as oil, wine and wheat to the upper hill.
The Israel National Trail passes through, between Mount Kina and Tel Arad. The Zohar Peak and Zohar Lookout (Mitzpe Zohar) are common hiking and biking destinations on the national trail.
The city is also near Yatir, one of Israel’s finest desert wineries. One could also take a stroll through the galleries and workshops of Eshet Lot, the artist’s quarter.
It is also known for its annual summer music festival, The Arad Festival, and is in close proximity to Masada, adding to its appeal as a tourist destination.
Author: United with Israel Staff
Date: Feb. 25, 2014
(With files from Nefesh b’Nefesh, Fodor’s Travel, Ministry of Tourism, govisitisrael.com, wikitravel and Jewish Virtual Library)
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