Mount Scopus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mount Scopus |
|
|---|---|
| Hebrew: "Har HaTsofim" | |
The Hebrew University of Jerusalem on the top of the mountain
|
|
| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 826 m (2,710 ft) |
| Listing | Judaean Mountains |
| Geography | |
| Location | Jerusalem |
Mount Scopus (Hebrew: הַר הַצּוֹפִים Har HaTsofim; Arabic: جبل المشارف, Ǧabal al-Mašārif) is a famous mountain in Jerusalem. It is located north-east of the Old City. The mountain stands about 826 metres (2,710 ft) above sea level.
Mount Scopus is considered an exclave of Israel. This means it is a part of Israel that is surrounded by land belonging to another area, in this case, the West Bank. The area was taken from Jordan during the 1948 Arab–Israeli War.
A cemetery belonging to the American Colony in Jerusalem is located close to the entrance of the Hebrew University.
Contents
What is Mount Scopus?
Mount Scopus is a significant landmark in Jerusalem. It offers amazing views of the city and the surrounding areas. The name "Scopus" comes from a Greek word meaning "watcher" or "lookout." This is because of its high position, which provides a great vantage point.
Location and Height
The mountain is found in the north-eastern part of Jerusalem. It is part of the Judaean Mountains range. Standing at 826 meters (about 2,710 feet) tall, it is one of the higher points in the region.
A Special Part of Israel
Mount Scopus is an "exclave" of Israel. Imagine a piece of a puzzle that belongs to one picture but is placed inside another picture. That's what an exclave is. Mount Scopus is Israeli territory, but it is surrounded by the West Bank. This unique situation came about after the 1948 Arab-Israeli War.
Important Places on Mount Scopus
Mount Scopus is home to several important institutions and historical sites. These places make the mountain a center for education, art, and history.
Hebrew University of Jerusalem
One of the most well-known places on Mount Scopus is the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. It is a leading university in Israel. Many students come here to study different subjects. The university campus on Mount Scopus is very large and has many buildings.
National Botanic Gardens
The National Botanic Gardens are also found on Mount Scopus. These gardens are a beautiful place to visit. They have many different types of plants from Israel and other parts of the world. It's a great spot to learn about nature.
Historical Cemeteries
Mount Scopus is home to several important cemeteries:
- The Jerusalem British War Cemetery is where soldiers from the British Empire who died in World War I are buried.
- The Jerusalem American Colony Cemetery is also located here.
- The Bentwich Cemetery is another historical burial ground on the mountain.
Other Notable Institutions
- The Hadassah Medical Center has a campus on Mount Scopus. It is a well-known hospital and medical research center.
- The Bezalel Academy of Art and Design is a famous art school. Many talented artists and designers study here.
- Ammunition Hill is a former Jordanian military post. It was the site of a fierce battle during the Six-Day War in 1967. Today, it is a national memorial site.
- The National Headquarters of the Israel Police is also located on Mount Scopus.
History of Mount Scopus
Mount Scopus has a long and interesting history. It has been important for many different groups of people over thousands of years.
Ancient Times
Because of its high location, Mount Scopus was often used as a military lookout point. Armies would camp on the mountain before attacking Jerusalem. For example, the Roman army led by Titus camped here in 70 AD before destroying Jerusalem.
Modern History
In the early 20th century, Mount Scopus became a center for education. The Hebrew University of Jerusalem was founded here in 1918. Famous people like Albert Einstein even visited the university.
During the 1948 Arab-Israeli War, Mount Scopus became an isolated area. It was separated from the main part of Israel. This is how it became an exclave. Israeli forces held onto the mountain, even though it was surrounded by Jordanian territory.
After the Six-Day War in 1967, Israel gained control of the surrounding areas. This reconnected Mount Scopus with the rest of Jerusalem. Today, it continues to be an important part of the city.
Images for kids
-
Hebrew University of Jerusalem - Mount Scopus campus
-
Hadassah Medical Center - Mount Scopus
-
Jerusalem American Colony Cemetery
-
Bentwich Cemetery
-
Ammunition Hill
-
Hebrew University inauguration ceremony, 1917
-
Hadassah nursing school under construction, c. 1934
-
The Botanist Alexander Eig established the National Botanical Garden of Israel - 1931
-
Mount Scopus 1948
-
Hecht Synagogue
-
Hebrew University cornerstone ceremony, 1918
-
View of the Old City of Jerusalem as seen from Mount Scopus
.jpg)
See also
In Spanish: Monte Scopus para niños
