Migdal Tsedek National Park

Rosh HaAyin, Israel, Israel

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Migdal Tsedek National Park, also known as Migdal Afek, is an archaeological and nature reserve on the southeastern edge of Rosh HaAy in central Israel, overlooking a narrow strategic pass between the Yarkon River swamps and the hills of the Shomron along the ancient Via Maris trade route connecting Egypt and Mesopotamia.

The site’s monumental structure is a Crusader‑era fortress called Mirabel, built in the 12th century and later rebuilt and used as an Ottoman manor house known as Majdal Yaba, which was named after Sheikh Tzadek (Tzedek) who settled there in the 18th century, giving the place its modern Hebrew name Migdal Tzedek.

Archaeological excavations have revealed remains from the Bronze Age, First Temple period, Roman and Byzantine phases, showing human habitation extending back about 4,000 years, and today visitors can see defensive walls, water towers, Crusader rooms and Ottoman elements, while climbing the fortress walls to a viewing platform with panoramic views of the coastal plain. 

The park also functions as a “green corridor” and habitat for wildlife such as hyenas and gazelles, with paved walking paths through Mediterranean woodland, and it is close to the Tell of Afek and the site of the Battle of Even Haezer where the Ark of the Covenant was captured by the Philistines. Access is via Route 444 south of Rosh HaAyin, turning onto Ben Gurion Boulevard and then Yehuda HaLevi Street to a dirt road that leads to a monument and the fortress, and the park has normal visiting hours and an entrance fee, though at times sections have been closed for conservation work or quarry damage.