Israel has announced the opening of a new bridge to connect Hinnom Valley with Mount Zion, which at 202 metres is the longest suspension bridge in the country.

A new suspension bridge now connects the Valley of Hinnom with Mount Zion in Jerusalem in Israel.

According to a press statement by Israel Tourism, the bridge is free for pedestrians to use and is open from 06:00 to 22:00 every day. It adds that children up to the age of 14 years must be accompanied by an adult.

The tourism board says that the bridge makes it possible to admire the natural beauty of the valley surrounding the Old City of Jerusalem from the south and to explore the holy sites via a new walking route.

It adds that the southern end of the bridge is near the farm in Gai Ben Hinnom, which is known for traditional local products such as olives, wine, and honey. Nearby tourist attractions include the City of David National Park, the Sultan’s Pool and the restaurant and shopping area in and around the old station building, HaTakhana HaRishona.

Israel Tourism adds that tourist attractions on the Mount Zion side include King David’s Tomb, the Room of the Last Supper and Dormitio Abbey. Pedestrians can continue into the Old City through the Zion Gate. It says that in the past 20 years, the Hinnom valley, which was previously used as a rubbish dump, has been thoroughly renovated. The soil was remediated, and footpaths were laid. The valley offers hikers lush vegetation and, thanks to the new suspension bridge, a walking path to the Old City of Jerusalem, it adds.

The project cost around ILS 20 million (USD 5.3 million) and was commissioned by the Ministry of Jerusalem Affairs and Heritage, the Ministry of Tourism, and the Jerusalem Municipality, in collaboration with the Jerusalem Development Authority and the Moriah Company.

It says that besides the new bridge, there is an 80-metre-long suspension bridge in Nahal HaBesor and a 70-metre-long one in Nesher.

“We built this bridge with its spectacular view to improve the tourist offer in this area. The summer vacation that has just started is a great opportunity for locals and visitors to get to know this special place. We will continue to invest in promoting Jerusalem as a tourist destination,” says Haim Katz, Tourism Minister of Israel.

“The suspension bridge is an asset to tourism in the city. Jerusalem is the main city in Israel that continues to improve its tourist attractions and invests millions in the development of tourism in the city, for both domestic and foreign visitors. I invite everyone to visit Jerusalem,” says Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Leon.

“Israel is a country with a rich cultural, historical, and religious heritage, and is home to a variety of attractions that offer something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or just looking for a unique experience, Israel is a destination that is sure to deliver,” says Sammy Yahia, Director of Tourism, India and Philippines.