Hizma

Hizma is a Palestinian village in the Jerusalem Governorate, located 6 km north of Jerusalem's Old City, just east of the Ramallah Road (Route 60). It is an agricultural village with a population of around 7,000, predominantly Muslim, known for its olive groves and sheep farming. Hizma has a long history, with archaeological remains dating to the Roman and Byzantine periods. Its location on a hill offers views of the Jerusalem hills and the Judean Desert. The climate is Mediterranean: hot, dry summers and cool, rainy winters. Spring is the best time to visit.

By Plane

Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) is 50 km northwest. A taxi costs ₪300–400. Budget: sherut to Jerusalem's Damascus Gate (₪45), then shared taxi to Hizma (₪5).

By Train

By Car / Road

Hizma is 6 km north of Jerusalem's Old City, about 15 minutes by car via the Ramallah Road (Route 60). Shared taxis from Jerusalem's Damascus Gate run to Hizma (₪5).

Hizma is walkable. The main street runs through the village centre.

• Hizma Mosque — The main mosque, a simple local building.

• Olive groves — Ancient olive trees surround the village.

• Roman-era ruins — Remains of a Roman settlement, including cisterns and building foundations, on the village outskirts.

• View of Jerusalem — From the village's southern edge, the northern suburbs of Jerusalem are visible.

• Olive harvest (October–November) — The main agricultural season.

• Walking through the olive groves — Peaceful walks on the village's outskirts.

• Hizma Café — A small café serving falafel and basic meals. Sandwiches ₪8–12. For more options, Ar-Ram or Jerusalem are a short ride away.

Bottled water (₪2) is available at the village shop.

Hizma has no tourist accommodation. The nearest hotels are in Ramallah (10 min north) or East Jerusalem (15 min south).

Local olive oil is the main product. Small grocery shops sell essentials. For shopping, Ramallah or Jerusalem are 15 minutes away.

• Ar-Ram (3 km, 5 min south) — A large town with a commercial centre and market.
• Jerusalem (6 km, 15 min south) — The Old City.
• Ramallah (8 km, 15 min north) — The cultural and political hub of Palestine.
• Anata (3 km, 8 min east) — A village with a historic old quarter.
• Bir Nabala (5 km, 10 min west) — A village with a traditional market.