Plizio Visual Lab
Ein es-Sultan Spring
The Ein es-Sultan Spring, also known as Elisha's Spring, is the lifeblood of Jericho and is widely regarded as the oldest continuously used water source in the world. For over 10,000 years, this bountiful spring has provided fresh water to the residents of the Jordan Valley, making it the very reason Jericho is recognized as the world's oldest continuously inhabited city. The spring emerges at the foot of the archaeological mound of Tel es-Sultan, where the ruins of ancient Jericho are located. It sustains the city's lush oasis, famous for its date palms and banana groves, and continues to provide the main water supply for the modern municipality. With a consistent flow rate of roughly 650 cubic meters per hour and a stable temperature, it is a hydrogeological marvel in the desert landscape. Biblical tradition holds that the prophet Elisha performed a miracle here by purifying the spring's bitter waters with salt, rendering them sweet and life-giving. For visitors, the spring is a site of immense historical and spiritual significance, marking the point where nature and human history have been intertwined for millennia.
- Location: Palestinian Territories
- Top sights: Tell es-Samarat · Al Murabitin Mosque
- Nearby: Taybeh Old City (18 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 11 | 13 | 16 | 20 | 24 | 28 | 30 | 30 | 28 | 24 | 18 | 14 |
| Rain mm | 63 | 58 | 32 | 15 | 6 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 8 | 29 | 52 |
📋 Practical info
Geography
Facts
- The discharge is approximately 680 cubic meters per hour.
- The spring is located directly next to Tell es-Sultan.
- Jericho is considered the world's oldest city because of this spring.
- The water is rich in minerals and suitable for drinking.
- A historical basin collects the emerging water.
- The water temperature remains stable throughout the year.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Ein es-Sultan Spring (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Ein es-Sultan?
Is the site freely accessible?
Can one see archaeological digs here?
Is it family-friendly?
When is it coolest?
Ein es-Sultan Spring: where is it located?
Ein es-Sultan Spring: what is there to see?
Ein es-Sultan Spring: when is the best time to visit?
Ein es-Sultan Spring: why is it worth visiting?





















