Way of the Patriarchs

The Way of the Patriarchs is an ancient north-south route traversing the land of Israel and the region of Palestine, largely following the watershed ridge of the Samarian and Judaean Mountains. Archaeologically significant features along this route include ritual baths, or mikvaot, used by pilgrims from the time of the ancient Temple and extending through the Hellenistic and Roman eras. Milestones discovered along the route indicate its continued use as a major road during Roman times, with distances marked to Jerusalem. The road was historically significant, witnessing events such as the Maccabees' Battle of Beth Zechariah and the biblical Battle of Gibeah. Today, modern Highway 60 roughly follows its ancient path, underscoring its long-standing importance as a thoroughfare in the region.