Nahal Siah

Have you ever heard of a spring that promises complete recovery? Here, nestled in the heart of Haifa, runs the Nahal Siah, a place of captivating beauty and intriguing tales. Named after the Hebrew and Arabic words for “tour” or “hike”, Nahal Siah beckons you to explore its wonders. Our journey takes us past chalkstone cliffs and the remnants of a lime pit, a testament to the industrial past hidden within this natural haven. As we venture deeper into the Nahal Siah, we encounter a hidden gem: Ein Faraj, also known as Elijah’s Spring. Legend tells us that the Prophet Elijah himself drank from these very waters, and anyone who follows suit will experience complete healing. While we admire its mystical allure, I must caution you against testing this ancient belief. The spring, though beautiful, is not safe for drinking today. Facing the spring, perched on the northern bank, lies the intriguing two-story Ma’arat Komatayim, or the Two-Story Cave. This natural cave, expanded by human hands, once served as a sanctuary for Carmelite monks seeking solitude and a deeper connection to their faith. Nearby, remnants of a Crusader-era church stand as a solemn reminder of Nahal Siah’s tumultuous past. History whispers that in 1238, this peaceful valley witnessed a tragic massacre of Carmelite monks, lending it the somber name “Valley of the Martyrs”. Today, a modern Carmelite chapel built from local white chalkstone stands in quiet tribute. As we descend further, the vibrant red and yellow hues of the rare euphorbia dendroides, found only in this region of Israel, paint the slopes. Our journey through Nahal Siah culminates at the Bustan of Aziz Khiat, an opulent orchard and holiday site from Haifa’s British Mandate era. As we stand before the stone fences and cascading pools, we’re reminded of the valley’s journey through time – from ancient prophets to wealthy families, Nahal Siah has borne witness to it all.