THE KINNERET CLEFT
The Lake of Kinneret or Sea of Galilee lies in a depression of the Jordan Valley 210 metres below sea level, and covers an area of 160 square kms.The Jordan runs through it from north to south. The surrounding mountains are largely of volcanic origin and are composed of basalt. The Hot Springs are also an outcome of ancient volcanic activity. The northern part of the cleft contains the Tiberias hot springs south of the city, and is famous since ancient times as a health resort. In summer the climate is exceedingly hot. The average annual temperature amounts to 21 C. Preicipitation is 376 mm. and relative humidity is 60%. In winter the atmosphere is pleasant and the shores of Kinneret are particularly suitable for health and rest centres. The areas neighbouring the Jordan and Genossar clefts to the Northwest, South and South-East, are covered with alluvial deposits making for exceedingly fertile soil. These clefts are now used for intensive agricultural exploitation by numerous mixed-farming kibbutzim, with a preference for early vegetables and banana plantations. The northern shore of Lake Kinneret contains various Christian holy sites.
