“Naharayim at Gesher” is located in the Beit She’an Valley between Degania and Beit She’an. The first hydroelectric power plant built during the British Mandate was constructed at nearby Naharayim (the Two Rivers), subsequently called the Isle of Peace. This can no longer be visited as it is in Jordan, but there is a large working model of the power plant and a short movie in the museum. Also described on a tour is the inspiring defense of Kibbutz Gesher during the 1948 War of Independence and the three bridges across the Jordan River. Usual tours are directed at Israelis, but the guide can provide information in English and the two movies can be viewed with English subtitles.
Directions: Enter “Naharayim at Gesher” into Waze and click on “נהריים בגשר.”
Time: A tour lasts about 1½ hours.
Admission details: The site is open Sunday to Thursday 9.00 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday 9.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m. and Saturday and holidays 11.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. Viewing the site in the context of a tour is advisable rather than on one’s own. They take place at 11.00 a.m. and 12.30 p.m. on weekdays. There is an admission charge. Call 04-675 2685 to check on the times of tours and their availability in English. This is their website.
Public transport: Enter "נהריים בגשר" into Moovit. There is a bus line between Beit She'an and Tiberias. The site is a 1.2 Km/15-minute walk from the closest bus stop at Kibbutz Gesher.
Mamluke bridge built on Roman foundations
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For the overview "Kibbutz Gesher and the 1948 War of Independence" — see my book "The North of Israel for Everyone: The Best Family Activities, Hikes and Historic Sites."
For the overview "Pinhas Rutenberg and his hydro-electric power plant at Naharayim" — see my book "The North of Israel for Everyone: The Best Family Activities, Hikes and Historic Sites."
Bridge for the Hejaz Railway built by the Ottomans in 1904.
The kitchen in the Large Shelter used during the Iraqi invasion.
Movie about Pinhas Rutenberg and his power station projected in the model room.
Model of Rutenberg's hydro-electric power plant.
The British police station at Gesher.
You can cross the Roman/Mamluke bridge, as it has been repaired. But go no further than halfway, or you will find yourself in Jordan!
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