Society For Preservation of Sites and Landscape in Modi’in

The Society for Preservation of Sites and Landscape in Modi’in is an environmental protection organisation in Modi'in, Israel. Its goals are to preserve the interests of heritage sites, archaeology, natural characteristics and the landscape in Modi'in-Maccabim-Re'ut area.

History

The society was founded as a non-profit organisation ('Amuta') in 1990 by a group of residents of Maccabim (now integrated as one city – Modi’in, Maccabim and Reut). The society battled against establishment of a large city on their doorstep, claiming that it would cause the destruction of many sites of archeological and natural interest scattered throughout the city limits and surrounding areas.

The area designated for the modern city had been a closed military zone until development began, so it had not been excavated and was relatively well preserved. Founders of the society argued that construction of the city would adversely affect and weaken populations in the cities closest in proximity, such as Ramle and Lod, and also Jerusalem and Bet Shemesh, by attracting a higher socio-economic level of population.

Construction of the city was planned to start on what is known today as the Titora Hill, formerly 'El Burj', a unique heritage site, of which only one third remains unbuilt, which was already a popular hiking route for local residents. When the society’s members had no choice but to reconcile to the building of a new city, they concentrated their efforts on protecting the hill from further destruction. The first completed neighbourhoods of modern Modi’in spread over the southern and western sections of the Titora Hill. A High court injunction initiated by the society has prevented further building on the hill to this day.

The water tower was erected at the summit because it is the highest point in the city, ignoring the presence of remains dating back more than 2,500 years to the period of the First Temple in Jerusalem. The late Professor Yair Parag was a founder member and third chairman of the society.

Activities

Over the years the society has constantly spoken out publicly in the interests of the history, the land and planning issues concerning modern Modi’in, with the intention to increase awareness among the newer residents, with regard to the natural resources and historic interest to be found in this area. The society joined with other ‘green’ groups ACTIVE in the city such as Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel, the Green Forum and the Hava VeAdam (Adam and Eve) Ecological Farm. Every year the society organizes trips and walks in the city and its environs. These trips focus on places slated to be damaged or destroyed by expansion and development as well as sites of particular interest. The society is unique in that it is an entirely independent body, not being supported by the Modi’in Municipality and therefore not answerable to external demands. Other green groups active in the area are active under the auspices of the municipality in fields such as education in schools. Therefore, there are many times when the society expresses an opposing stand on environmental issues. The society is made up of and run by local residents only, and these include educators, professionals in relevant fields, academics, tour guides and people active in the community who care about preserving the area’s unique character and history.

Lobbying

Simultaneously to the PR and information functions, the society works with various officials and academics in order to prevent extensive damage in the region. Over the years, experts in their fields have written their opinions on various topics, be they historians, geologists, archaeologists, demographists, and these have accumulated into an authoritative collection describing the wealth of points of interest to be found in the Modi’in area, and adding the weight of their support for preservation of the precious natural and historic heritage that is the responsibility of our present generation. The society’s leaders regularly present the society’s position at the various planning and building committees that take place during the year.

Local press and media

For some time, the society published a series of articles written by an expert on the area, Eran Tearosh, each one reviewing a different site from the historic and natural scenic aspects. This series was published in the local “Modi’in News” newspaper. In times of specific threats to important sites, press releases explained the significance to the wider community. The community TV channel has produced short programmes about certain sites in danger of damage or destruction.

he:העמותה לשימור אתרים ונוף במודיעים ~~