Deir Razih

Deir Razih is an open, spacious village found 11km southwest of Hebron, and which relies mainly on nearby Dura for its services and shops. At the entrance from the main road is a welcome sign, erected in August 2015, which is indicative of the friendliness of the residents who remain living there. Any visitors are unlikely to leave without first being treated to Arabic coffee in a family’s home.

There is a particularly beautiful old stone house at the entrance to Deir Razih, as well as the remains of an Old Town spread throughout. Most of the residents rely on agriculture, and the sight of chickens scampering around is a common one. There is also a small mosque constructed in 2003. But life has been made difficult for residents of Deir Razih by the close proximity of three Israeli settlements, causing many to leave the village.

The Palestinian Authorities are not allowed to enter Deir Razih and Israel has banned the construction of any new buildings, stopping the village from expanding.

Population: 268 (2007)

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What To Do

Villages like Deir Razih are worth exploring for a taste of the real, rural Palestine. It is a tranquil, beautiful place and the families living there are extremely welcoming.

In the nearby town of Dura the alleged tomb of Noah can be found, but there is no sign of his ark.

Dura town centre is a bustling, lively place, with a big central taxi rank, a shaded fruit and vegetable market and many different shops and restaurants. While Hebron – 11km away – is a remarkable, historic city still smarting from decades of conflict and political tension but well worth a visit.

Where To Eat

Fresh produce, snacks and cold drinks can all be purchased from shops and stalls in Dura or one of the other nearby towns, which also have small restaurants serving up traditional Palestinian fare such as shawarma, falafel and hummus. But the Hebron neighbourhood of Ras al-Jora – 11km away – is the place to find a multitude of restaurants.

Where To Stay

Deir Razih is just 11km southwest of Hebron, where there are four proper hotels. Alternatively, there is a great range of accommodation in Bethlehem, Jerusalem and Ramallah.