Hebrew name: Hurvat Eked

Location: Ayalon-Canada Park

Description: Hurvat Eked offers a spectacular view of the expanses of the Ayalon Canada Park and the Judean Plain. At the top of the steep hill, you will find the remains of a settlement from the time of the Second Temple, surrounded by a wall. This is perhaps where the Emmaus Fortress was located, built by Bacchides, the Seleucid general, who was sent to put down the Hasmonean revolt and conquer Jerusalem.
In 2011, the archeological excavations were resumed in this site. It is forbidden to enter the fenced-in excavation area.
Hurvat Eked is the highest spot in the Ayalon Canada Park, spanning 7,000 dunams (approx 1700 acres), and features natural groves, planted forests and ornamental trees found throughout the area. Inside the park are fascinating historical sites - an aqueduct, burial caves and Roman bathhouse that remain from the city of hot springs - Emmaus. In another area of the park is the Biblical Tel Ayalon with a crusader castle at the top and the remains of churches from the middle ages.

Directions: Travel north from the Latrun interchange (Route 3) in the direction of Ramallah, and after 600 meters, enter the Ayalon Canada Park on the right. Travel along the paved road, directly inside, for about 2 kilometers and then turn right onto a dirt road (right before a sharp turn in the paved road). After 250 meters you will reach another juncture. Turn right and continue another 300 meters to the top of the Hurva. The dirt roads require an ATV, those in private cars must walk there on foot.