Beit Shemesh
Beit Shemesh is a city located approximately 30 kilometres (19 mi) west of Jerusalem in Israel's Jerusalem District.
A center of Haredi Judaism and Modern Orthodoxy, Beit Shemesh had a population of 176,786 as of 2024.
Getting to Beit Shemesh
From route 1 (north of Bet Shemesh), take the exit of Shaar Hagay off onto route 38. Drive south for about 7 minutes until you see a sign for Bet Shemesh. Travel from the airport to Bet Shemesh takes about 45 minutes via this route. From the south, go on route 38 north, and continue driving until you see a sign for a turn to Bet Shemesh.
- 01Beit Shemesh
Worth seeing
- 01Tel Beit Shemesh
The ancient city of Beit Shemesh, a city mentioned in the Bible.
- 02Tel Yarmut
Another Biblical city, this one known as a Canaanite city against which Joshua fought.
- 03Biblical Museum of Natural History
A unique museum which explains the role of animals in Jewish tradition.
- 04Israel Police Heritage Centre
Presents the history of Israel's police forces, starting with the communal guard organizations that were created in the late Ottoman period, and ending with current police activities.
Things to do
Surrounding Beit Shemesh in every direction are beautiful forested landscapes which are great for hiking. To the east, in the Jerusalem Hills, are the most rugged hills with the best views. To the north and west are more modest hills which contain many bike paths. To the south is Emek HaElah, the valley in which David fought Goliath according to the Bible.
Where to eat
Pinat Hasova: A wonderful pizza and falafel restaurant in RBS A shopping center. Golda: Ice cream chain in Big Fashion Beit Shemesh. Kraus Deli: Don't go here lol it freaky
Text adapted from Wikipedia and Wikivoyage, CC BY-SA 4.0. Photograph: Wikimedia Commons (see Commons), Wikimedia Commons.