History

Jenin is a city with a long and rich history, located in the northern part of the West Bank in present-day Palestine. The area has been inhabited since ancient times, and its history can be traced back thousands of years. Here is an overview of the key historical events and periods in the history of the city:

1. Ancient Times: The region around it was settled by various civilizations, including the Canaanites, during the Bronze Age. Archaeological excavations in the area have uncovered remains dating back to this era.

2. Roman and Byzantine Periods: During the Roman and Byzantine periods, Jenin was an important center along the trade routes that connected the Mediterranean coast to the interior of the Levant. It was known as “Ginae” during the Roman period and “Ginin” during the Byzantine era.

3. Islamic Era: With the advent of Islam in the 7th century, the city came under Muslim rule. It became an essential part of the Islamic Caliphate and was ruled by various Muslim dynasties over the centuries.

4. Crusader Period: In the 12th century, the region was conquered by the Crusaders, who established a Latin Kingdom in the area. The city was known as “Ginnum” during this time.

5. Ottoman Rule: In the early 16th century, the Ottoman Empire captured the city, and it became a part of the Ottoman province of Damascus. Jenin experienced relative stability and growth during the Ottoman era, becoming an important market town and a center of agriculture.

6. British Mandate and Aftermath: After the collapse of the Ottoman Empire in World War I, the British took control of the region and administered it under the League of Nations Mandate for Palestine. During this period, tensions between Jewish and Arab communities began to escalate, eventually leading to the Arab-Israeli conflict.

7. Modern Era: In 1948, after the end of the British Mandate, the city came under Jordanian control following the Arab-Israeli War. The West Bank was roughly equivalent to (but smaller than) one of the zones designated as an Arab state under the United Nations (UN) partition plan for Palestine in 1947 as it was defined by the Jordanian-Israeli ceasefire of 1949. (check United Nations Resolution 181). That strategy called for Jerusalem to be a zone of international cooperation. The city was split up into Israeli and Jordanian parts, respectively.

The West Bank was ruled as a part of Jordan from 1950 until it was invaded by Israel in the Six-Day War of 1967, despite being separated from the Jordanian people of the East Bank by the Jordan River. Both Palestinian mistrust of the Hashemite monarchy and West Bank Palestinians’ desire for an independent state contributed to the tense relationship between the East and West banks.

But throughout this time, the web of connections between the two half of Jordan developed, and by 1967, the West Bank accounted for around 30% of Jordan’s GDP and nearly 47% of the country’s total population.

Except for East Jerusalem, which it annexed into itself and extended Israeli citizenship, law, and civil administration to, Israel seized the West Bank during the 1967 war and erected a military administration there.

Throughout its history, this city has remained an important cultural and economic center for the Palestinians, and it continues to play a significant role in the broader context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The most important place to start any visit to this area is at the visitor center, which is fairly modern and extremely informative. On the 2nd floor, there is a large map followed by eight detailed boards which pick out the must-see destinations in and around the city. A multitude of information leaflets is available, as well as a further small museum lined with various historical titbits.

The city itself is undoubtedly the buzzing market with all its smells, sounds, and color, and the quieter and more charming streets of the Old City. It is the hill that hosted the oldest settlement in the site , although little is visible today barring some extremely old and weathered stone houses.

You have not to be missed Jenin camp, although you need a local guide to help navigate the maze of streets and apartment blocks. Inside the camp, there are poignant monuments to fallen martyrs (many of whom died younger than 18) and a center called the ‘Not To Forget association’. It is so-called to remind the refugee families living in the camp that one day they will return to their homes.

The shining light of the camp is undoubtedly the Freedom Theatre, which has risen from the ashes to become a powerful, unifying force.
Outside the city center, Burqin’s pretty Christian church atop a hill and the Balama tunnel are two excellent trips.

Where To Eat

Traditional dishes from This city are an essential component of the country’s history; each one has a fascinating backstory that is closely related to its culture. The traditional foods can be prepared in a variety of ways, resulting in variations in flavor from family to family using the same recipe. Each Palestinian city’s local cuisine has a distinct flavor that is only recognized for its restaurants and chefs.

Given Jenin’s popularity as a tourist destination, there are plenty of food alternatives there. Restaurants may be found all throughout Manger Square and its neighboring streets, as well as more traditional shawarma joints up in the Old City.

The market also features a section dedicated to fresh produce, which you should visit even if you have no intention of making a purchase just to take in the vibrant, disorganized piles of fruit and vegetables.

Where To Stay

This city is the place to go if you want to explore something fresh. The region around city includes lodging alternatives to suit every requirement.

In the city and its surroundings, you can find some small guesthouses or local hotels that cater to visitors. These options may offer a more authentic experience and a chance to interact with locals.

Homestays or Airbnb: Depending on the current situation, you may find locals offering homestay options or Airbnb rentals in and around the city. Staying with a local host can provide you with a unique and personal experience.

When looking for accommodations, it’s essential to consider the current political and security situation in the region. Additionally, make sure to check for any travel advisories or restrictions issued by your home country’s government regarding travel to the West Bank. Always prioritize safety and ensure you have proper information and arrangements before planning your stay in the city or any other location in the area. It’s also a good idea to consult with local travel agencies or contacts to get up-to-date information on the best places to stay and travel logistics.

Weather and Climate 

August and July are typically the warmest months , when the average temperature is 27°C. January and February are the coldest months, when the average temperature is 16°C. December and January are the months with the most rain. The height of city affects its moderate climate, which has pleasant, sunny summers and mild, dry winters (with chilly nights) (during which thunderstorms often break out).