Latrun

Latrun is a hilltop in Shfelah overlooking the road between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, 25 kilometers west of Jerusalem. The hill is home to several sights.

Understand
The name Latrun is derived from a medieval Crusader castle which was located at the hill. During the 1948 Arab–Israeli War the hilltop and surrounding areas was the site of several major battles. Due to its significance, the official memorial site for fallen soldiers from the armored corps is located at Latrun.

Dotted around Latrun are several small villages and kibbutzes, most notably Neve Shalom. Known as Wāħat as-Salām in Arabic the village was jointly founded by Israeli Jews and Arabs and offers opportunities for educational work.

On foot
The national trail which runs Israel's full length north to south passes by Latrun.

See