The Four Seas of Historic Palestine: Biodiversity, Heritage & Environmental Justice

From the salty depths of the Dead Sea to the gentle waves of the Mediterranean, historic Palestine is blessed with four unique seas. Each holds its own ecosystem, cultural heritage, and deep environmental importance. For generations, these waters were part of daily life — sustaining families, livelihoods, and traditions. Today, however, Palestinians are cut off from most of their seas. Israel even forbids access to the Mediterranean in Gaza, a stark reminder of the ongoing war, apartheid and control over Palestinian lives. What was once natural and abundant — to fish, swim, and gather by the shore — has become a rare and often impossible experience.

At Handmade Palestine, we celebrate this deep connection between land, water, and people. We also work to protect Palestine’s natural heritage through rewilding, community gardens, and support for artisans who honor the environment in their craft.

Join us as we explore the four seas of historic Palestine, their biodiversity, and why preserving them matters now more than ever.

The Mediterranean Sea in Palestine

Stretching along Palestine’s western coast, the Mediterranean Sea has shaped the history of cities like Gaza, Jaffa (Yafa), Haifa, and Akka (Acre). For millennia, these coastal communities relied on fishing, trade, and cultural exchange — a tradition that continues today.

Biodiversity of the Mediterranean Sea in Palestine:

• Over 500 marine species, including dolphins, groupers, and endangered sea turtles
• Coastal wetlands that provide vital stopovers for migratory birds on the Africa–Eurasia flyway
• Rare sand dune ecosystems with plants like the coastal iris and sea daffodil

Cultural Heritage:

• Fishing families in Gaza preserve generations of traditional knowledge, despite severe restrictions
• Akka’s markets and cuisine highlight the enduring relationship between the sea and Palestinian culture

👉 Support the resilience of Palestinian coastal communities by choosing handmade goods from Palestine.

The Dead Sea: Palestine’s Natural Wonder

The Dead Sea (Al-Bahr Al-Mayyit) is the lowest point on Earth and one of the saltiest bodies of water in the world. Found along the eastern edge of Palestine, it is renowned for its therapeutic mud, mineral-rich waters, and spiritual significance across Christianity, Islam, and Judaism.

Dead Sea Biodiversity:

• Salt-loving bacteria and microalgae unique to this ecosystem
• Freshwater oases like Ein Fashkha, home to gazelles, amphibians, and migratory birds
• A biodiversity hotspot within the Jordan Rift Valley

Environmental Challenges Facing the Dead Sea:

• Shrinking water levels due to diversion and mineral extraction
• Loss of habitat threatening both wildlife and communities

👉 Handmade Palestine supports environmental education, native plants, and rewilding projects to safeguard Palestine’s ecosystems.

The Sea of Galilee (Lake Tiberias / Bahr al-Tabariyya)

The Sea of Galilee, also known as Lake Tiberias, is a freshwater lake in northern historic Palestine. Though access for Palestinians is now restricted, it has been central to Palestinian natural heritage for centuries.

Biodiversity of the Sea of Galilee:

• Freshwater species such as tilapia and barbel
• Migratory birds including pelicans, cranes, and herons
• Native wildflowers, reeds, and medicinal herbs along its shores

Cultural Significance:

• Palestinian farmers and fisherfolk historically relied on the lake for water and food
• Associated with sacred traditions, herbal medicine, and ancient agriculture

Though diverted and controlled today, the lake’s ecological and cultural legacy remains deeply rooted in Palestinian identity.

The Red Sea (Aqaba Gulf) in Historic Palestine

At the far southern tip of historic Palestine lies the Red Sea coast near Aqaba. Though the territory is now part of Jordan, it remains part of Palestine’s ecological and cultural story.

Red Sea Biodiversity:

• Coral reefs among the northernmost in the world
• More than 1,000 fish species, including many endemic ones
• Mangroves and seagrasses supporting marine mammals and migratory birds

This narrow stretch of Red Sea coastline highlights Palestine’s extraordinary environmental diversity — desert, mountains, and sea all meeting in one place.

Why Biodiversity in Palestine Matters

The biodiversity of Palestine faces increasing threats:

• Land confiscation and settlement expansion
• Military infrastructure damaging ecosystems
• Restricted access for Palestinian farmers, shepherds, and conservationists

Despite these challenges, Palestinians continue to resist through seed saving, medicinal plant preservation, and rewilding projects that protect both culture and environment.

👉 Discover how Handmade Palestine supports eco-projects in the West Bank.

How You Can Support Palestinian Environment & Heritage

• Shop Ethically in Palestine – Choose handmade olive oil soaps, textiles, and crafts made with natural, local materials.
• Share Awareness – Tell the story of Palestine’s natural heritage and the challenges it faces.
• Support Rewilding Projects – Every Handmade Palestine purchase helps fund native tree planting, rooftop herb gardens, and youth-led conservation.

Final Thoughts: Palestine’s Seas as Living Heritage

The seas of historic Palestine are not just geographic features — they are living testaments to biodiversity, heritage, and resilience. From the fishermen of Gaza and the wild herbs of the Jordan Valley to the coral reefs of Aqaba, these waters tell the story of a people deeply connected to their land.

Every act of solidarity — whether you shop, donate, or share — helps protect this living Palestinian heritage.

“To love Palestine is to love its land, its waters, its seeds, and its future.”

👉 Explore Handmade Palestine’s eco-friendly, handmade products