Timna, valley of the ancient copper mines

Archaeologic evidence of copper mining has been found here dating to 5000-6000 years BCE. These mines were mis-identified in the 1930's as "King Solomon's Mines". In fact ancient Egyptians including minions of Ramses III mined and smelted copper at this site. Acacia was utilized to make charcoal for the 10-12 hour (1000 degrees celsius) fire that was necessary for the smelting process. Archeaologic remains of the smelting furnaces, mine pits and tunnels dot the landscape. Today the landscape is almost completely devoid of vegetation and this is a harsh and desolate place. I have never experienced such heat, even in the deserts of Utah and Arizona.