The region to the south of Jerusalem is known as the Judean Mountains, named for the Israelite tribe of Judea with such cities as Bethlehem and Hebron that settled the land. Bethlehem and Hebron are found on its main ridge. This region is in many respects the heart of the Promised Land, the land of the Patriarchs and Matriarchs.

Along its main ridge the heights exceed 1000 meters above sea level and contain numerous fresh water springs. Indeed, the Judean aquifer is one of the region’s most important water sources even today.

On it's eastern side the Judean mountains begin a steep descent towards the rift valley and the Dead Sea - a drop of over 1200 meters. On the west its mountains roll down to the Shephelah (lowlands) and to the coast.

Near Bethlehem stands the Tomb of Rachel, who died giving birth. Other patriarchs and matriarchs are buried in Hebron. Bethlehem was the home of Naomi, Ruth and King David, and it was in a Bethlehem stable that Jesus was born.

King Herod utilized the topography and springs of the Judean Mountains to divert water to the Temple Mount. He built his own private fortress, castle and tomb in the Judean mountains, and called the complex - Herodion.

The hard limestone mountains of Judea are now partially reforested, and from its rocky hill terraces are yielding grapes and olives again as they did so long ago.