Glimpses of Israel - Haas Promenade

Haas Promenade–A View Unforgettable

Located in the hills of East Talpiot, a south-eastern suburb of Jerusalem is the modern Haas Promenade, built in 1980. What is particularly special about this location is the view. From here, the view extends from the modern city's expansion to the west; the old city and walls, and Temple Mount in the north; to Mt Scopus in the northeast; and to the Mount of Olives, and Dead Sea in the east.

Here the Patriarchs walked. From this vantage point, it is believed that "Abraham lifted his eyes and saw the place afar off." (Genesis 22:4) – Jerusalem, Mt Moriah, the Temple Mount– where he and Isaac worshipped.

More recently, a Jewish settlement flourished on this ridge from the time of the Hasmoneans (Maccabee140BCE) until the Second Temple was destroyed in 70CE. A 40 metre (130ft) shaft which had been dug during that period has been unearthed. The shaft connected an ancient aqueduct which channeled water from Solomon's Pools in the Hebron Hills to the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, a distance of 20kms (12 miles).

The Promenade facilities include a café and restaurant, ample gardens and shaded parks ideal for families, while walking trails provide excellent viewpoints ideal to take in the sights.

On a hill nearby is the United Nations headquarters. Prior to 1948 during the British Mandate it was the residence of the British Commissioner. In the days of the Roman occupation, the hill was known as the "Hill of Evil Counsel".