Mount Carmel facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mount Carmel |
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Hebrew: Har HaKarmel | |
![]() the Bahá'í World Centre on Mount Carmel in Haifa
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Highest point | |
Elevation | 546 m (1,791 ft) |
Geography | |
Location | Haifa |
Range coordinates | 32°44′N 35°03′E / 32.733°N 35.050°E |
Mount Carmel is a famous mountain in northern Israel. It stretches from the Samaria Mountains towards the city of Haifa and the Mediterranean Sea. Haifa city sits right at the base of this mountain, meeting the sea. Mount Carmel stands 546 meters (about 1,791 feet) above sea level.
The mountain has interesting names. In Hebrew, it is called Har HaKarmel. This name means "God's vineyard". In Arabic, it is known as Kurmul or Jabal Mar Elyas. This second Arabic name means "Mount Saint Elias".
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What is Mount Carmel?
Mount Carmel is a coastal mountain range. It is located in the Galilee region of Israel. The mountain forms a natural border between the coastal plain and the inland valleys. Its highest point is 546 meters (1,791 feet) high.
Where is Mount Carmel located?
Mount Carmel is found in the northern part of Israel. It extends from the Mediterranean Sea inland. The city of Haifa is built on its slopes. This makes Mount Carmel a very important landmark for the city.
History and Importance
Mount Carmel has been important for a very long time. People have lived here for thousands of years. It is mentioned in ancient texts and has religious meaning.
Religious Significance
Mount Carmel is a sacred place for several religions. It is mentioned in the Hebrew Bible. The prophet Elijah is said to have lived here. He challenged the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel. This story is very famous.
The Carmelites are a Catholic religious order. They were founded on Mount Carmel. They believe the mountain is a special place for prayer. The Stella Maris Monastery is a famous Carmelite monastery here.
The Baháʼí Faith also considers Mount Carmel sacred. The Baháʼí World Centre is located on the mountain. It includes beautiful gardens and shrines.
Nature and Environment
Mount Carmel is known for its natural beauty. It has many different plants and animals. Parts of the mountain are protected areas.
Flora and Fauna
The mountain is covered with forests and shrubs. You can find many types of trees here. There are also wildflowers, especially in spring. Many animals live on Mount Carmel. These include deer, wild boars, and various birds. It is a rich natural habitat.
Mount Carmel National Park
A large part of Mount Carmel is a national park. This park helps protect the unique environment. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails and nature walks. It is a great place to explore nature.
Images for kids
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Coloured postcard of "Haifa, Mount Carmel", by Karimeh Abbud, circa 1925
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University of Haifa atop Mount Carmel
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Stella Maris Monastery in Mount Carmel, Haifa
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According to Carmelite tradition, the crypt of the Stella Maris Monastery, seen here on a 1913 photo, was originally the hiding cave of Elijah
See also
In Spanish: Monte Carmelo para niños