A long-awaited project to install a permanent roof over a central courtyard at Meoras Hamachpeilah in Chevron has finally been completed, providing protection from the elements for the many mispallelim who come throughout the year to daven at the resting place of the Avos and Imahos.

The new roof covers approximately 300 square meters over the inner courtyard known as Chatzer Yaakov. The project was completed and inaugurated on Wednesday, ahead of Rosh Hashanah, when large numbers of mispallelim traditionally visit the holy site.

Efforts to advance the project date back more than two decades. In 2007, plans for the roof were promoted together with the elevator and accessibility pathway intended to make Meoras Hamachpeilah more accessible to all visitors.

The roofing project, however, remained stalled for years amid opposition from Muslim officials.

Authorities subsequently went through a lengthy process to transfer the necessary jurisdiction away from the Chevron Municipality so that the work could proceed. A building permit was ultimately issued approximately one year ago, clearing the way for construction to begin.

Until now, Chatzer Yaakov remained exposed to the elements, leaving mispallelim vulnerable to heavy rain during the winter and intense heat during the warmer months. The permanent covering will now allow tefillos to take place in the courtyard throughout the year with considerably greater comfort.

The improvements went beyond the installation of the roof. The drainage infrastructure at Meoras Hamachpeilah was upgraded as part of the work, and air-conditioning systems were installed to improve conditions for the many visitors and mispallelim who frequent the site.

The Civil Administration oversaw and financed the project at a cost of approximately NIS 11 million. The actual construction was performed by the Defense Ministry’s Engineering and Construction Department, with preservation and archaeology professionals participating in the work to ensure that the improvements were carried out appropriately at the ancient and revered site.

{Matzav.com}