Latrun and Its Monastery: A Sanctuary
Keyword: 
Latrun
historical significance
Latrun Monastery
Palestinian villages
Father Louis Wehbe
'Imwas
displacement
strategic importance
Abstract: 

The Latrun area is known for its rich history and natural beauty. This paper explores the scenic and historical significance of Latrun, tracing its evolution from Roman times to its current state. The study highlights the area’s strategic importance, the transformation of the Latrun Monastery, and the impact of historical conflicts on the local population and landscape. Through interviews and personal reflections, the paper delves into the enduring legacy of the region and the lives of its inhabitants, particularly focusing on Father Louis Wehbe and the displaced residents of 'Imwas.

Author biography: 

Rawda Ghnayem lives in Haifa where she is a researcher and writer of Palestinian social history, documenting oral history, and leading narrative historical tours of the city. She is the author of Haifa fi al-dhakira al-shafawiyya: Ahya’ wa buyut wa nas (Haifa in oral memory: neighborhoods, houses, and people), published by the Arab Center for Research and Policy Studies, Qatar/Beirut, in 2022, and has written articles across various platforms.