Makhtesh Ramon, a
cirque measuring 40 kilometres (25 mi) long, 2โ10 kilometres (1.2โ6.2 mi) wide, and 500 metres (1,600 ft) deep, is the world's largest
makhtesh. It is located in Israel's
Negev desert, some 85 kilometres (53 mi) south of
Beersheba. The makhtesh and surrounding area are home to only one settlement,
Mitzpe Ramon, and together form Israel's largest
national park.
Photograph: Andrew Shiva