Some Background on Hebron: Known locally as “Al Khalil,” Hebron is the largest city in the West Bank, with a population of over 215,000 Palestinians. Situated 30 kilometers (19 miles) south of Jerusalem and 22 kilometers south of Bethlehem, Hebron is a city brimming with a rich history and a diverse cultural tapestry. Notably, it is home to the Cave of the Patriarchs, a site revered by Jews, Christians, and Muslims as the burial place of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Sarah, Rebecca, and Leah.

Location and Demographics

A City of Religious Significance

Hebron holds a unique place of reverence for three major world religions, making it one of the holiest cities in the world. This religious significance has drawn the interest of Israeli settlers who have established a militarized settlement near the Cave of the Patriarchs, occupying a significant portion of the city.

A Tapestry of Historical Layers

With a history dating back to the Bronze Age, Hebron has witnessed the rule of various empires and civilizations, including the Byzantines, Muslim caliphates, and crusaders.

Between the years 1000 and 1900, it was governed by the Ayyubids, the Mamelukes, and the Ottomans. Even today, the Old City retains architectural remnants from these significant historical epochs.

The Complex Modern History

In more recent history, Hebron’s story has been marked by complex shifts in control. It was ruled by the British Mandate from 1920 to 1948 and later annexed by Jordan in 1950. However, the Israeli Occupation began after the Six-Day War in 1967.

Subsequently, following the 1995 Oslo Agreement, Hebron was divided into two distinct sectors: H1, controlled by the Palestinian Authority, and H2, controlled by Israel. Presently, H1 is inhabited by around 120,000 Palestinians, while H2 is home to approximately 30,000 Palestinians and 700 Israeli settlers.

International Controversy and Heavily Monitored Divisions

The division of Hebron remains a point of international controversy. H2, though controlled by the Israeli military, hosts a Jewish settlement widely regarded as illegal by the international community, though this is disputed by the Israeli government. The Israeli Defense Force closely monitors this division.

Scenic Landscape and Local Industries

Hebron’s picturesque landscape is characterized by white limestone buildings that majestically punctuate the city and its surrounding villages. The city is renowned for its distinctive glass and ceramic manufacturing, limestone quarries, grape and fig farms, beautiful olive wood products, and a thriving shoe industry.

International students and volunteers are encouraged to explore these facets of Palestinian culture through frequent tours of these areas.

Educational Hub

Hebron is home to several universities, including Hebron University, which offers courses in religion, the arts, and sciences, with instruction available in both Arabic and English. The Palestine Polytechnic University provides instruction across various fields, including engineering, business, and applied sciences.

Ancient Charm and World Heritage

The heart of Hebron’s rich cultural and historical heritage lies within the ancient walls of the Old City. In 2017, the Old City and the Tomb of the Patriarchs were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Old City of Hebron stands as one of the world’s best-preserved medieval cities, adorned with surviving Mamluk and Ottoman period structures. Its narrow winding streets and historic shops offer opportunities to purchase souvenirs, fabrics, spices, clothing, and everyday items.

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