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.

Get in

On foot

See also: Israel National Trail

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

Get around

See

Tanks on display at Yad La-Shiryon.

View of Latrun Abbey.

• 1 Yad La-Shiryon (יד לשריון). Israel's official memorial site for fallen soldiers from the armored corps. The site also features a tank museum with over 100 different tanks, some of Israel's own and others captured during combat. Entrance ₪30. (updated Aug 2023)
• 2 Mini Israel (מיני ישראל). Features more than 350 replica models of historical, religious, archaeological and modern sites in Israel. While once a popular destination, it is now reported to be somewhat run-down, and not worth the price. Entrance ₪69. (updated Aug 2023)
• 3 Latrun Abbey. A Roman Catholic monastery and winery. (updated Aug 2023)
• 4 Castle Latrun. Only fragments is left of the old castle, reputedly built in 1130 AD. However the views are magnificent and well worth the hike. (updated Aug 2023)

Sleep

Lodging

• 1 Neve Shalom Hotel, ☏ +972 2 999 3030. (updated Aug 2023)