Ha-Teomim cave

The Te'omim Cave (Məʿarat ha-Tə'ōmīm, lit. 'Cave of the Twins'), or the Twins Cave, Arabic name Mughâret Umm et-Tûeimîn, is a karstic cave within a nature reserve in Israel located on the western edges of the Jerusalem Mountains, in the vicinity of Beit Shemesh. The Te'omim Cave is a central highlight along a 3 kilometers (1.9 mi) walking trail regarded as one of the most renowned and popular touristic sites in the area. For the protection of the hibernating bat population, the cave is closed to visitors during the winter season, from November 1 to March 31. However, during the other seasons, it is open to the public. The cave holds significant archaeological significance, with discoveries spanning different historical periods. Noteworthy discoveries include human bone remains, weaponry, and coin hoards, indicating its role as a refuge cave for Jewish rebels and refugees during the Bar Kokhba revolt. Furthermore, evidence of an ancient alabaster quarry dating to the Middle Bronze Age and of a possible Late Roman period cultic site associated with necromancy has been discovered in the cave, adding to its archaeological importance.

Cave data from Wikidata (CC0). Summary from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA).