Sunday, November 10, 2024

Har Nof: Jerusalem's neighborhood of panoramas and piety

Har Nof, perched majestically on the hills of west Jerusalem, is a neighborhood that encapsulates both the enduring spirit and the complex history of the city. 

With its name translating as “scenic mountain,” Har Nof  – which has an elevation ranging from 690 to 810 meters – provides panoramic views of the verdant Jerusalem Forest and, on clear days, stretches out to the Judean Mountains and Beit Shemesh. This high vantage point is more than a scenic delight; it embodies the blend of ancient and modern narratives that define Har Nof.

The roots of Har Nof trace back to the late 1970s, with its establishment gaining momentum in the 1980s. Originally designed to attract young couples and families – both secular and religious – it quickly became a beacon for those seeking affordable yet spacious housing near Jerusalem’s bustling heart.


The area chosen for Har Nof included the historic site of Deir Yassin, a village with profound significance due to the events of Israel’s 1948 War of Independence, when its Arab residents fled amid the conflict. (Read More)