Makhtesh Ramon (Ramon Crater)The Makhtesh Ramon (Ramon Crater) is an extremely interesting
geological site located in Israel's Negev Desert, about 53 miles
(85km) south of the city of Be'er Sheva. The crater (or more
properly,
) was not formed from the impact of a meteor, but
is rather a geological formation unique to the Negev desert, caused
by millions of years of erosion and weathering following the
retreat of the ocean. These days, the 40km-long, 500m-deep crater
is housed within Ramon National Park, one of Israel's most popular
ecotourism destinations. The crater, which is shaped like an
elongated heart, is a magnificent sight - and a potent reminder of
the incredible age of the region. The crater is also home to a
variety of indigenous plants and animals, including the Nubian
ibex, striped hyena, Arabian leopard and Dorcas gazelle. There are
numerous hiking trails leading down to the bottom of the crater,
where you can see the ruins of prehistoric Khan Saharonim (a stop
used by Nabatean traders travelli |
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