Israel Travel Blog

In a recent interview the Jerusalem Development Authority Director of Tourism, Ilanit Melchior talked about the city’s plan for the next 5 years and how the mayor, Michael Bloomberg sees the future of the City of Gold. jerusalemThere are plans in place for the city’s expansion in industry, biotechnology, academic education, health care, hi-tech and tourism. The city already beats every other city in the world for significant religious sites (Christian, Muslim and Jewish) and is one of the most historic cities in the world. The new vision for 2020 is to add a few mod-cons to the city, attractions which other capitals have already had for many years and which have proved successful tourist magnets. Jerusalem hopes to attract 4 million more tourists by 2020 by marketing itself independently of Israel just as capitals like New York, London and Paris are marketed as stand-alone destinations.The plan for 2020 was born in collaboration with visiting Harvard Professor Michael E. Porter and urban economist Richard Florida. Porter’s plan is based on the principle of “Competitive advantage.” Or simply put: figure out what you have that no one else has and promote it. His principle states that to develop a city’s economy, you must identify its relative competitive strengths and develop them. The plan will involve intensive marketing overseas and focus on people traveling independently and not on package trips. Jerusalem is already the top attraction in Israel drawing in 75% of all visitors and being the site of the top 5 tourist attractions in the country (Western Wall, Jewish Quarter, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Via Dolorosa and the Mount of Olives).Jerusalem’s Cultural Mile or Museum RowPart of promoting Jerusalem as a travel destination is making the city more walkable. This will be done by connecting significant attractions by tree lined paths and plenty of signs telling tourists about the sites. New additions to the already thriving tourist city include a Museum Row like in New York, Los Angeles and other capitals. The “Row” will start at the historic First Station and connect the top Jerusalem museums with the House of Parliament, Supreme Court Building, National Library and Old City by a series of parks and paths. The walking and cycling route will be lined with cafes, galleries, parkland and cultural centers. Museum Row will also be used as an outdoor venue for concerts, happenings and special cultural events.More Improvements for Jerusalem on the HorizonOther visions for Jerusalem’s future include a cable car from the First Station to the Old City; a tourist mini-train to take you through the Old City and a large Ferris wheel like in almost every other capital in the west. The First Station, which is already a Jerusalem point of interest, is to have a new section called Kid’s Station with kid-friendly attractions like a carousel and rock wall for climbing.Apart from additional attractions, Jerusalem plans to make the public transportation more streamline and increase the number of hotels in the city to accommodate the potential additional 4 million tourists. One of the obstacles is transportation on Shabbat. The religious population in Jerusalem is against public transport on the Holy Sabbath. However, before you get too excited bear in mind that all these plans cost money and are yet to be presented to parliament for approval. Hopefully, the future of Jerusalem will be a bright one and make the already historic and magical city a travel Mecca for globe trotters.

In March of this year (2015) Jerusalem’s first urban wildlife park of its kind was opened. The establishment of the Gazelle Valley Urban Wildlife Park comes after 15 years of intensive efforts and legal battles by local activists to prevent construction of buildings on this land.The land between the Katamon neighborhood, Gazelle ValleyGivat Mordechai area and the Holyland neighborhood (by Begin Highway) had once been an area where fruit trees grew and wild animals roamed. This patch of natural countryside in the heart of the city became known as Gazelle Valley because of the herd of gazelles which grazed there. Slowly urban development encroached more and more on this island of green until real estate giants put their sights on Gazelle Valley with plans of constructing a new neighborhood of high-rise blocks. Local activists voiced their objections and together with environmental organizations like the Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel they fought for the establishment of a nature reserve.It took 22 million shekels to transform the area into the natural paradise that it is today and a further 70 million is earmarked for future plans for the park. The park was financed by the municipality in conjunction with donations by the Jerusalem Foundation. The urban wildlife park covers more than 60 acres (about the size of the Old City) and has been designed with care to maintain the natural, wild habitat. The park is an oasis within the concrete jungle and is easily accessible on foot from places like the Malka Mall and Bayit V’Gan.Gazelle ValleyUnlike conventional parks Gazelle Valley has large areas where the natural grass and bush have been left untouched creating a natural environment for the herd of gazelles which now call it home. The gazelles which now live in the park are the few that survived from the original much larger herd plus others which have been brought here to repopulate the area. Already two fawns have been born in the park. The park is divided into three areas – for the gazelles, the visitors and an open buffer zone between them. The park has bike paths, two streams, five ponds, picturesque bridges leading to a man-made island, bird watching areas, picnic spots, open lawns and many birds and small animals who have made this home like porcupines, moles and hedgehogs. Visitors can join guided nature tours of the park and borrow deck chairs and binoculars to watch the gazelles.

People often go to pious or righteous Jews to ask for their blessing or to ask them to pray on their behalf. This tradition continues after the pious Jew or "tzadik" has passed on. Jews visit the gravesites of pious Jews and famous Great Sages in the hope that they will intercede on their behalf before God. When Jews pray at the graves of pious Jews or "Kevrei Tzadikim" it is not worship of the departed tzadik, but rather worship of God with the tzadik as an intermediary. Burying damaged Jewish prayer books, Mount of Olives Jewish Cemetery.Photo by Zoltan Tasi on UnsplashTraditionally prayer at the graveside of pious Jews is particularly powerful on fast days, holy days, and the anniversary of the passing of a loved one or the tzadik himself. The Gemorah and Zohar emphasize the importance of praying at the graves of tzadikim. Here are the main kevrei tzadikim in Israel but there are many, many more. In Safed, Meron and Tiberias alone there are over 90 kevrah tzadikim!Kever Rachel – BethlehemJacob buried Rachel on the side of the road leading to Bethlehem so that Jews passing by on their way to exile would be able to stop and pray for redemption. Rachel would intercede on the worshiper’s behalf and make their prayers even stronger. The original Kever Rachel was built in 1841, funded by Montefiore but in 1998 it underwent a complete renovation including secure protective walls around the complex.Rabbi Pinchas ben Yair – Tzfat (Safed)This Rabbi was the son-in-law of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai and he performed many good deeds (mitzvoth) especially in his love for fellow man. Several times he solved problems by pointing out the mitzvah that the person was not performing correctly. It is traditional to circle his grave in Safed seven times.Cave of the Patriarchs, Hebron.Photo byDan RosensteinonUnsplashShmuel HaNavi – Northwest outskirts of JerusalemShmuel HaNavi was a great Torah scholar and in later years became a judge and prophet (navi). He would travel around the country as a judge and never accept payment or gifts for his work. He anointed Shaul as King of Israel on God’s instructions. Shmuel later taught David how to build the Holy Temple and he wrote the biblical Book of Judges. At the gravesite, there is a tall tower which you can climb to get a view across the countryside. Alongside his grave in Jerusalem are the graves of his mother Chana and father Elkanah.Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai (Rashbi) – Mt. MeronThis Rabbi features prominently in the Talmud and was one of Rabbi Akiva’s students and a 2nd-century Mishnaic sage. The Rabbi performed many miracles and wrote enlightened interpretations of the Torah. He is buried next to his son Rabbi Eliezer (bar Rabbi Shimon) on Mount Meron. On the anniversary of his death, the 33rd day of the Omer (Lug B’Omer) crowds of religious followers gather at his graveside to pray, study, sing, and dance. Traditionally on Lag BaOmer bonfires are lit and three-year-old boys are brought to Mt. Meron for their first haircut at the tzadik’s graveside. The Rashbi is connected with the Zohar – the Book of Splendor – the Kabbalist’s sacred book. Also on Mount Meron are the graves of The Tanna, Rabbi Yiba Saba, Hillel Hazaken, Rabbi Yochanan HaSandlar, and Rabbi Yossi ben Kisma.Mount Meron, Israel.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinRabbi Yosef Karo – Tzfat (Safed) CemeteryThis 15th-century tzadik was born in Spain and educated in Turkey where he began writing his interpretation of Rambam’s Mishnah. He also wrote Bais Yosef where he focused on the early sages. He then moved to Tzfat (Safed) in Israel where he wrote the Shulchan Aruch explaining the Halachah laws in a way that the common man could understand without being a great scholar. He wrote other books and was highly regarded as an authority on Jewish law. Karo died in 1575 but his books remain the mainstay of most religious Jewish households.Rambam – TiberiasRambam was one of the greatest Rabbis of all time, he was born in 1135 in Spain and came from a respected family of Torah scholars. His family was expelled from Spain along with many other Jews and forced to wander from country to country. He wrote Pirush Ha’Mishnah L’Rambam and in Egypt, he became known as a brilliant medical doctor. He also wrote Mishnah Torah, Yad Ha’Chazaka, Yud Gimmel Ikrim, and Sefer Ha’Mitzvot. He died in 1204 in Egypt and his body was returned to Israel and buried as well as some other prominent tzadikim in Tiberias. He lies beside his father, Rabbi Yochanan ben Zakkai, and his five students. There are 14 pillars lining a path towards his grave each pillar represents a section of the book Mishnah Torah.The Ashkenazi HaAri Synagogue, Safed (Tzfat), Israel. Photo credit: © ShutterstockRabbi Yochanan ben Zakkai – TiberiasRabbi Yochanan ben Zakkai was privileged to see the second Holy Temple of Jerusalem before dying at the age of 120 in 90AD. In his lifetime he served as the leader of Klal Yisroel and studied with Hillel and Shammai. He was buried in Tiberias 1100 years before Rambam was buried alongside his grave.Rabbi Meir Ba’al HaNes – On the Shore of the Sea of GalileeThis tzadik studied under Rabbi Akiva, Rabbi Yishmoel, and Elisha ben Avuya (Acher). He was married to Bruriah, the only woman mentioned in the Gemorah as wise and brilliant. He lived through the terrible period of Roman persecution after the destruction of the Holy Temple. He was a brilliant scholar and a Sofer or scribe of holy Torah scrolls. The Rabbi died in Asia but requested to be buried in Israel. His body is buried not far from Tiberias on the shore of the Sea of Galilee. It is tradition to make a charitable donation to kollelim (places where Torah is studied intensely) in the name of Rabbi Meir Ba’al HaNes. Torah scroll.Photo byTaylor WilcoxonUnsplashYonatan Ben Uzi’el – AmukaVisiting this gravesite traditionally aids those looking for a marriage partner and women come here to pray for fertility. He was a student of Hillel HaZaken and a wise Torah scholar.Hillel Ha’Zaken – MeronVisiting the grave of this ancient tzadik who lived from 110BC to 10AD, 120 years, is thought to aid longevity and good health. He founded the House of Hillel and the school of Tannaim, the Sages of the Mishnah. He lived during the reign of Herod and is remembered for several poignant and wise phrases such as “If I am not for myself who will be for me?”Tomb of the Patriarchs (Ma’arat HaMachpelah) – HebronCave of the Patriarchs in Hebron is where you’ll find the graves of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and their wives Sarah, Rebecca, and Leah. These biblical figures are the primary patriarchs of Judaism together with Rachel who is buried near Bethlehem. The site is surrounded by walls dating back to King Herod and the site is sacred to both Jews and Muslims.Rabbi Meir Baal HaNes tomb in Tiberias, Israel. Photo credit: © ShutterstockRabbi Yehuda bar Eliyahu – Ein Zeitim, Near TzfatPraying at this great scholar’s grave is supposed to bring a blessing on your income. There is an olive tree next to the grave and it is traditional to take a leaf from the tree and place it in your pocket. Rabbi Yehuda bar Eliyahu was one of Rabbi Akiva’s last five students. Today a Kollel (house of Torah study) stands over his tomb and his father’s tomb.Ari HaKadosh – TzfatAri HaKadosh (the Holy Lion)'s real name was Rabbi Isaac Luria Ashkenazi and he lived in the 16th century. He wrote an interpretation of the Zohar and began the Kabbalah movement; the mystic branch of Judaism. Visiting this gravesite is a spiritual and mystic experience. In Tsfat you can visit the synagogue named after him.Rabbi Akiva – TiberiasThe great Akiva was a poor shepherd and only at the age of 40 did he learn to read and write. He soon became a wise and respected Torah scholar. He spent the rest of his life studying the Jewish religious scriptures. Visiting this grave gains worshipers the blessing of wisdom and success in their studies. The most popular time to visit the grave is on the eve of Yom Kippur as this is the anniversary of his death.To see the list of Jewish holy sites in Israel feel free to read this article.

More and more people are seeking medical treatment abroad no matter which country they live in. Those in developing countries look for more advanced and better quality medical care in other countries. And those in first world countries like the USA and Western Europe look for cheaper medical care abroad – but still of a high standard. Israel appears to offer both reasonable medical fees and top quality medical professionals.The Medical Tourism Index issued by the International Healthcare Research Center recently named Israel as one of the top medical tourism destinations in the world. Israel took first place for “best patient experience” and third overall out of 25 medical tourism destination. Approximately 50,000 medical tourists arrive in Israel each year many come from Eastern Europe but there are also patients from the US and UK. Among the most popular treatments, procedures and medical care for medical tourists in Israel is orthopedic procedures; cancer treatments; plastic surgery; infertility treatment (Israel has a high percentage of success in this area); cardiac surgery (particularly Bypass surgery) and diabetes.Those suffering from Seborrhoeic dermatitis or psoriasis often come to Israel not only for conventional hospital treatment but also to take advantage of the natural beneficial properties of the Dead Sea. Those with rheumatological complaints and lung disease also benefit from treatments based on the Dead Sea mineral salts, sulphur springs, attenuated ultra-violet radiation, Dead Sea mud and the high oxygen content of the Dead Sea atmosphere.Medical tourism in the Dead seaThe attraction of Israel as a medical tourism destination comes down to several factors:Price – Not only is medical treatment cheaper in Israel than in other parts of the world but the hotels, airfare and miscellaneous expenses are also low in IsraelMedical Professionalism – Israeli doctors are highly respected and known for their abilities; they are constantly fine tuning of their skills through research and further study. Israel in general is known as a country where medical breakthroughs are frequently made. Unfortunately Israel has suffered several wars but this has given doctors the circumstances to practice and perfect their expertise in the fields of orthopedics and trauma related injuries.Israel – When choosing a medical tourism destination the patients have to take into consideration that they will need time to recuperate. So the surroundings and the country itself need to be appealing. Israel offers sun shine, endless attractions, and tours to every corner of the land. Israel holds deep religious significance to Jews, Christians, Muslims and those of the Baha’i faith.If you are considering traveling to another country for medical care then research the medical services offered in Israel and consider that you will be having a vacation in a stunning location once your medical procedure is over.

Good Friday is commemorated on the Friday before Easter Sunday each year and marks the day that Christ was crucified. The Crucifixion of Jesus took place in Jerusalem (on a site now within the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in the Old City) so if you are lucky enough to be in Jerusalem on Good Friday you will have the unique experience of being exactly where these Biblical events took place. Good Friday is marked in Jerusalem by religious services in the many churches and by other unique events. Thousands of Christians come to Jerusalem for Good Friday to take part in the moving events of that day.Via Dolorosa ProcessionThe most major event in Jerusalem on Good Friday is a procession by Roman Catholics and Protestants which retraces the route Jesus took from his sentencing in front of Pontius Pilot to Golgotha where he was crucified. He carried his heavy cross along this route, known as the Via Dolorosa (Way of Suffering or Way of Sorrows)) and paused at 14 points along the way. The places where Jesus stopped along the Via Dolorosa are called the Stations of the Cross. Each year thousands of pilgrims carrying crosses, chanting, praying and singing hymns proceed through the streets of the Old City along the Via Dolorosa led by Christian religious leaders of Jerusalem. At each of the Stations of the Cross they stop to pray. The brown robed Franciscan friars pause at each of the stations to explain their religious significance and chant prayers in Latin. Some years there is someone dressed as Jesus bearing a heavy wooden cross that walks just behind the priests leading the procession. The person taking the role of Jesus wears a crown of thorns and has fake blood dripping from his wounds. “Jesus” is flanked by people dressed as Roman soldiers. The procession ends at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre where Jesus is believed to have been crucified, laid to rest in a tomb and later resurrected on Easter Sunday. Once the procession reaches the Holy Sepulchre where the final four Stations of the Cross are located the pilgrims pause to pray and later that day there are more special ceremonies within the church.Practical InformationEaster is celebrated on different days by the Orthodox denominations which follow the Julian calendar and by the Catholics and Protestants who follow the Gregorian calendar. Throughout the entire week of Easter there are special events in Jerusalem so if you cannot make it for Good Friday then try to be in the Holy City at some other time during the Holy Week.Special events on Good Friday in Jerusalem:7:15am – Passion of Christ on Calvary in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.11:30am – Procession of the Way of the Cross (Via Dolorosa) led by Franciscan monks from the Lion’s Gate to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.4pm – Liturgy of the Hours in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.8:10am – “Funeral Procession” in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.At the Garden Tomb there is an English Good Friday meditative service for Protestants.Roman Catholic and Protestant Good Friday Dates: 2017 – April 14; 2018 – March 30; 2019 – April 19 and 2020 – April 10.Orthodox Good Friday Dates: 2017 – April 14; 2018 – April 6; 2019 – April 26 and 2020 – April 17. In 2017 Good Friday dates for Orthodox, Roman Catholic and Protestants will coincide, this means that the Good Friday events in Jerusalem in 2017 will be even more memorable than other years. This happened in 2010, 2011 and 2014 but after 2017 it will not happen again until 2034.

Spencer Tunick, the world famous photographer who specializes in taking shots of hundreds of nude people standing in public places or at famous landmarks has now included the Dead Sea in his long list of large-scale nude photo shoots.Naked SeaIsraelis of all ages ( between 18-77), creeds, colors, men, women, shapes and sizes rushed to apply to the Facebook request for volunteers to appear naked in Spencer’s photo at the Dead Sea. 1,200 volunteers arrived at the Dead Sea before sunrise on September 17th 2011 to take part. The 17th was a Saturday, chosen specifically to discourage protests by orthodox Jews who would be prevented from disrupting the shoot because they don’t travel on Shabbath. The final location was also kept secret until the last minute to avoid protests and curious spectators. The nude subjects posed in the Dead Sea water, on the shore and also covered in the Dead Sea black mud.Spenser claimed that his photo shoot was intended to bring attention to the gradual destruction of the Dead Sea by man. The Dead Sea is probably the only site in the Middle East, or Israel for that matter, where this kind of artistic photography will ever be produced. When asked what prompted them to take part participants said they wanted to be a part of this once in a lifetime event and have a unique liberating experience!

When choosing where to base yourself on a trip to Israel the obvious choice is either Tel-Aviv or Jerusalem but there is another attractive option – Herzliya. Herzliya is a city on the coast about 20 minutes north of Tel-Aviv. The main coastal road (route #90)and railway tracks divide the city in to who halves. Inland you have the main centre of the city and the residential area. Across the main coastal road and along the beachfront you have Herzliya Petuach which is one of the most sort after residential areas and a hub for tourists, revelers and beach-lovers. Herzliya Petuach is also the industrial area of the city but it has evolved from industry into a dynamic center for nightclubs and chic eateries.If you choose to stay at a Herzliya hotel it will most likely be one of those along the beachfront. The hotels are all of a high standard (4 to 5 stars) and have the added advantage of the sea right on their doorstep. It literally takes minutes to walk from any of the Herzliya beachfront hotels down to the seaHerzliya is conveniently located within easy access of the main coastal road which can take you to Tel-Aviv or north to Haifa and beyond. The Herzliya train station connects to Ben Gurion and other cities in Israel. There are many regular buses and taxis available. In addition, tour companies pick up groups of tourists from the Herzliya hotels. By foot, you can walk up and down the coastline along the sand.If you intend to unwind, relax and soak up the sun then Herzliya is a great place to base yourself. You can see the rest of the country with daily tours where you are picked up from your hotel but the rest of the time you can enjoy the beach and hotel amenities. Just a few minutes away is the Arena Mall which faces the Herzliya Marina. There are many top stores here as well as restaurants which have brilliant views over the yachts and boats in the marina. From the marina, you can go on boat excursions, try deep-sea fishing or take a kayak out on the water. In the evening head for Herzliya Pituach’s many nightclubs, wine bars, karaoke bars, and restaurants. Herzliya Pituach is also home to an outlet mall where you’ll get great bargains on brand-name fashion items.

Israel is made up of a range of ethnic and cultural communities; there are Jews who immigrated from around the world bringing their traditional cultures with them as well as Muslim and Christian communities. One of the most fascinating and unique Israeli communities is the Black Hebrew Israelites.The Black Hebrews are a group which believes they are the descendents of the ancient Israeli Tribe of Judah. It all began when Ben Carter of Chicago had a dream in 1966 where the Angel Gabriel came to him. The angel told him that African Americans were the Biblical lost tribe of Israel and should return to the Holy Land. The group grew, Carter changed his name to Ben Ammi and more and more African Americans joined the group. The group began arriving in Israel via Liberia with their leader Ben Ammi Ben-Israel in 1969.At first the Hebrew Israelites were not welcome in Israel, they are not recognized as Jews by Israel’s Chief Rabbinical authority and so they could not settle in Israel under the Law of Return (which welcomes Jews from around the world to settle in Israel). The Rabbinate said that they could only stay if they converted to Judaism but they refused as they believe they are already Jewish. Their statues was in the balance for many years, but now after three generations of Hebrew Israelites have made Israel their home the government awarded them permanent residency status in 2006.Their religious observance of Jewish law includes keeping Shabbat and they believe in the Old Testament but incorporate elements of African American heritage in their observance. The Black Hebrew Israelites are vegans; they wear only natural fabrics; don’t drink alcohol or smoke; don’t use salt in their cooking; don’t believe in premarital sex; circumcise boys at 8 days old in accordance with Jewish law; practice organic agriculture and maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a holistic approach to medicine. Hebrew Israelite men can be seen wearing Jewish tzitzit, head coverings and African print shirts while the women wear brightly colored African tribal dresses. Many of the men have more than one wife in accordance with ancient Biblical law.In Israel their community of about 2,500 members is based in Dimona in Southern Israel, they have a tight knit community with their own school, place of worship and community facilities. The unique Hebrew Israelite community of Dimona has welcomed many famous guests including Whitney Houston and Steve Wonder.The Israeli community is famous for its gospel choir which tours internationally raising money for the community. They also create an income for their community through their soy food factory in Arad. Other members of the community are involved in producing and selling African cultural clothing made from natural fabrics. The group runs a vegan restaurant called Ta’am Hachaim in Tel-Aviv. A few hundred Hebrew Israelites serve in the Israeli Army and members of their group have represented Israel in international sports and academic events. In 1999 Eddi Butler, a members of the Hebrew Israelite community, represented Israel at the Eurovision Song Contest. The group lives in their community on the urban kibbutz – Shomrei HaShalom in Dimona. They are very much a part of Israeli society and they welcome visitors and the chance to educate people about their beliefs. To arrange a visit to the Black Hebrew community in Dimona call their public relations office at 972-8-655-5400.

Jerusalem is an endless treasure trove of fascinating sites and attractions. A “top” list cannot do the City of Gold justice but to get you started here are the absolute must-see sites of Jerusalem.City of David excavations, Jerusalem, Israel.Photo credit: © Shutterstock1. Old CityMany of the individual top attractions of Jerusalem are within the Old City walls but in addition to the Old City highlights, there are many fascinating sites, narrow alleys, markets, and churches to discover. Wandering through the Old City is perhaps the best way to discover the Old City. Try following the Via Dolorosa, the route Jesus took carrying his cross to his crucifixion in Calvary where the Holy Sepulchre now stands. Shop for authentic souvenirs in the Muslim Quarter market and see the Armenian ceramics in the Armenian Quarter. The Old City walls were constructed under the Ottoman rule in the 16th century and it is possible to walk along the ramparts.In the 9th century, the city was divided into the four quarters of Armenian, Christian, Muslim, and Jewish neighborhoods. The Old City has drawn people of all faiths for thousands of years. It was here that Jesus was crucified, that the Jewish Temple stood, and where Muhammad traveled on his Night Journey. The Old City sites include Temple Mount, the Western Wall, Holy Sepulchre, and the Dome of the Rock; the Old City is a UNESCO World Heritage site.Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Jerusalem. Photo byAdam KringonUnsplash2. Church of the Holy SepulchreThe Church of the Resurrection in the Old City Christian Quarter is located on the site of Calvary (Golgotha) where Jesus was crucified, buried, and resurrected. The Via Dolorosa leads to the church where the last four Stations of the Cross are located representing the final stages of Christ’s Passion. The church was completed in 326AD (but rebuilt, repaired, extended, and renovated several times) and since then has been a pilgrimage site for Christians from across the globe. Much of the church structure we see today dates back to the Crusaders who rebuilt the church. The building is shared by several Christian denominations each with its own chapels within the church. Highlights of a visit to the church include the Armenian, Greek Orthodox, and Ethiopian Orthodox chapels; Calvary; the Chapel of the Nailing of the Cross; the Chapel of Adam; the mosaic depicting Christ’s body being prepared for burial; the Stone of Anointing, where Jesus’ body was laid to be prepared for burial and the Rotund, a massive dome above the Chapel of Aedicule which holds the Holy Sepulchre and the Angel’s Stone, a fragment of the stone which sealed Jesus’ tomb. The extremely beautiful and ornate church is one of the largest in the world.Dome of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Jerusalem. Photo byAdam KringonUnsplash3. Wailing WallThe Kotel, Western Wall, or Wailing Wall is the last remaining part of the ancient Jewish Second Temple which stood on Temple Mount until its destruction in c.70AD. The small stretch of wall which we call the Wailing Wall was part of the retaining walls of the temple constructed by Herod the Great in c.19BC. The temple on Temple Mount was the most sacred site in Judaism and following its destruction, the remaining wall became the most sacred site in the Jewish world. Looking at the wall you can see the large stone blocks on the lower section which date back to the original Herodian wall, smaller blocks in the middle section added during the Umayyad Era, and the smaller blocks on the top of the wall added during the Ottoman Era.The entire wall would have measured 488 meters long. The portion referred to as the Wailing Wall faces a large plaza in the Jewish Quarter while the rest of the wall is hidden behind other structures in the Muslim Quarter. There is a small section (8 meters) called the Little Western Wall still accessible within a tunnel. Jews gather throughout the day and night to pray at the Western Wall, it is the local synagogue for those Jews who live close by. It is a tradition to place a prayer note (with your private message to God) in between the stones of the wall. For a unique experience, you can take a tour of the Kotel Tunnels beneath the ground along the excavated hidden layers of the walls. You can join the hour-long tour from the Visitors Center on the Western Wall Plaza. Another interesting attraction alongside the Western Wall is the Generation Center which takes you on a journey following the existence of the Jewish people and giving you a unique view of the Western Wall.The Wailing Wall, Jerusalem. Photo byReiseuhuonUnsplash4. Temple MountHar HaBayit, HaMoriya, Haram al-Sharif, or Temple Mount is the most sacred site in Jerusalem for Jews and Muslims. The Jews value Temple Mount as the former site of their Holy Temple which was destroyed in c.70AD while the Muslims value the site because of several religious structures which stand here and the belief that Muhammad traveled here in his Night Journey as told in the Koran (although Jerusalem is not mentioned by name). Today entrance to the Temple Mount is monitored closely to avoid conflict between Jews and Arabs and it is usually only possible for non-Muslims to visit as part of a guided tour. Temple Mount is the site of the Dome of the Rock (the Noble Sanctuary with its famous golden dome and colorful mosaics), the al-Aqsa Mosque (thought to be the “Farthest Mosque” referred to in the Koran, it is the 3rd holiest Islamic site in the world) and the Dome of the Chain (an Ummayads era prayer house with a domed hexagonal structure and open arches). The mount is accessed through four gates, the paved trapezium-shaped area referred to as Temple Mount is in the eastern section of the Old City; it covers 37 acres and measures 488 meters by 470 meters by 315 meters by 280 meters. On the southern section of the western flank is the Western Wall where Jews worship on the other side of the wall.Dome of the Rock through the archway, Temple Mount, Jerusalem. Photo by Jorge Fernández Salas on Unsplash5. Mahane Yehuda Market250 market stalls and stores fill the lanes of Jerusalem’s most famous “shuk” or market. The market can be found between Jaffa Road, Agrippas Street, Beit Yaakov Street, and Kiach Street. There is a covered section down Eitz Chaim Street and an open-air market along Mahane Yehuda Street. Smaller streets bisect these two main streets each heavily ladened with food, produce, and goods. The Mahane Yehuda Market is well known for its many eateries, here you can find hidden gems, restaurants that count among the best in the city. The market is known for its lively atmosphere, frequent street entertainers, fresh produce, regular special events, and colorful dynamic atmosphere. Try sampling the roasted nuts, halva, pickles, olives, fresh baked goods and pick up some cheap household goods and casual clothing. For a slice of Israeli society visit Mahane Yehuda!Doughnuts for Hanukkah in Mahane Yehuda Market, Jerusalem. Photo byElisheva GoharonUnsplash6. Yad VashemThis museum is Israel’s official memorial to those who lost their lives in the World War II Holocaust. The Holocaust History MuseumYad Vashem is located on Mount Herzl next to the Jerusalem Forest; the expansive grounds have several memorials including the Children’s Memorial, the Hall of Remembrance, and the Garden of the Righteous Among the Nations which commemorates non-Jewish heroes who helped hide or rescue Jews from certain death. The main museum building has a unique triangular or prism shape constructed out of concrete which cuts through the landscape and after passing through the exhibits visitors reach an opening overlooking the valley forests. A skylight extends through the entire “triangle” letting in natural light. The museum holds video testimonials featuring Holocaust survivors; a Hall of Names featuring the photos of 600 Holocaust victims lining a cone shape which goes both up and down to where there is a pool of water. The museum exhibits include authentic artifacts, photographs, documents, personal possessions, and the world’s largest collection of artwork created by Jews and other victims during WWII. Yad Vashem is the second most visited site in Israel after the Wailing Wall and admission is free.Memorial to the Deportees (Wagon or cattle car monument) at Yad Vashem in Jerusalem.Photo credit: © Shutterstock7. Ein KeremIn southwest Jerusalem, just behind the Old City lies this picturesque ancient village which is now a neighborhood of Jerusalem. It is believed that John the Baptist was born here and many churches and monasteries have been established here for that reason. In addition to enjoying the many quaint coffee shops, specialty restaurants, lush greenery, and the traditional courtyard homes of Ein Kerem you can visit several sites. There are two Ein Kerem Churches of St. John the Baptist, one is a Catholic church constructed on the remains of former Byzantine and Crusader churches where you can see part of the surviving mosaic floor. The other church belongs to the Eastern Orthodox church and was built in 1894. The Church of the Visitation is thought to be built on the site of John the Baptist’s parent’s home. The present church was designed by well-known architect Antonio Barluzzi who also designed the Church of All Nations on the Mount of Olives. Other sites in Ein Kerem include Les Soeurs de Notre-Dame de Sion; the Russian Orthodox Gorny Convent and Mary’s Spring believed to be where Mary drank water and where Mary and Elizabeth met. Alongside the spring (which is actually the end of an ancient aqueduct) is a mosque and school.The historical streets of Ein Karem, Jerusalem, Israel. Photo byLaura SiegalonUnsplash8. David's TowerIt is hard to miss the sight of David’s Tower next to the Jaffa Gate of the Old City. The medieval citadel actually has no connection with King David; the present structure stands on the site of earlier Hasmonean, Herodian, and Christian fortifications. Herod altered the original Hasmonean fort towers and the northeastern tower (the Tower of Phasael) became known as the Tower of David by the Byzantine Christians who mistook it for the Palace of King David. The Turkish Muslim leaders also thought this was King David’s palace (1187) and the Mamluks made the same mistake destroying and rebuilding the citadel. During the Turkish Ottoman era the citadel was rebuilt and became a garrison and mosque; the minaret that is today referred to as the Tower of David dates back to the 16th century Ottoman Era. Under the British Mandate (1917-1948) the citadel was restored and used for cultural events and following the 1948 Arab-Israeli War the citadel became the property of the Arab Legion and was once again used as a military fortress until the Israeli victory in 1967.Today the Tower of David houses a museum and is used for exhibitions, concerts, and cultural events. The museum is housed in the guardrooms of the original citadel and in the courtyard, you can see archaeological ruins. The museum uses diverse state-of-the-art techniques to tell the story of Jerusalem in chronological order from 3200BC to the 20th century AD. The Tower of David is the site of Jerusalem’s Night Spectacular sound and light show “Babylon Exile.” Sophisticated special effects are used to project images on the surrounding ancient stones which come alive with images of the past.The 1:100 scale aluminum model depicts the structure of the Jerusalem citadel including the minaret which is called the “Tower of David. Photo credit: ©Dmitry Mishin9. Mount of OlivesThe Mount of Olives is a two-mile-long ridge with three summits facing the Old City across the Kidron Valley. This holy mount is known to most Christians as the site where Jesus wept over Jerusalem (Flevit super illam); where he taught his disciples (including the Olivet Discourse); as the site of his betrayal and arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane and where Jesus ascended to heaven in Acts 1:9-12. In the Old Testament, the mountain is referred to when David fled from Absalom (II Samuel 15:30) and in many other references. The mount has been a sacred Jewish burial ground since antiquity and verses in Zachariah refer to it as the place where the resurrection of the dead will begin after the Messiah has arrived. For this reason, many Jews wish to be buried here and it is the final resting place of many famous Jewish figures including Chaim ibn Attar. Today the mount is home to several landmarks; the Arab neighborhood of At-Tur stands on the mountain’s summit and to the north is the Mount Scopus campus of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and Brigham Young University Jerusalem Center. On the Mount of Olives you can visit the Church of All Nations, with its stunning colorful mosaic on the façade; the Church of Mary Magdalene, a magnificent Russian Orthodox Church with gold onion-domes; Dominus Flevit Church which marks where Jesus wept and the Chapel of the Ascension, a shrine marking where Jesus ascended to heaven 40 days after his resurrection. The Church of the Pater Noster stands on the site thought to be where Jesus taught the disciples the Lord’s Prayer. Ceramic plaques line the walls bearing the Lord’s Prayer in different languages. Other structures on the Mount of Olives include the Augusta Victoria Hospital; Orson Hyde Memorial Garden; the Seven Arches Hotel and the Garden of Gethsemane.View of the Temple Mount and of Mount Olives Jewish cemetery. Photo byRobert ByeonUnsplash10. Mount ZionSouth of the Armenian Quarter of the Old City is the highest point of ancient Jerusalem, Mount Zion. The mount is mentioned in both the Old and New Testament and the name has become synonymous with the city – the City of Zion. The biblical events believed to have occurred here include the last supper, where Jesus appeared before the high priest for judgment; where the Virgin Mary fell asleep (on the site of the present-day Dormition Abbey), and the site of the ancient Council of Jerusalem (Acts 15:1-29). During Christ’s lifetime, Mount Zion would have been a well-to-do residential neighborhood within the City Walls. The name “Mount Zion” has been used to refer to a number of locations including Temple Mount. The mount is also the traditional burial place of King Davidalthough it was the Crusaders who built the present David’s Tomb which stands on Mount Zion. Gradually over time, the tomb came to be accepted as the real burial place of David. King David is also a respected figure in the Islamic faith. When the walls of the Old City were built under the Turkish Sulieman the Magnificent in the 16th century the Sultan heard that Kind David’s tomb had been left outside of the walls and so he had the architects of the walls beheaded. Inside Jaffa Gate, you can see two stone graves said to be those of the architects. Today visitors to Mount Zion can visit King David’s Tomb and above it the Room of the Last Supper. There is also the Chamber of the Holocaust, a small Holocaust museum; the Catholic cemetery where Oskar Schindler is buried (of Schindler’s List fame); Dormition Abbey; andSt. Peter in Gallicantu (traditional location of the house of Caiaphas).Dormition Abbey, Mount Zion, Jerusalem, Israel.Photo credit: ©Dmitry Mishin11. Mea ShearimOne of Jerusalem’s oldest neighborhoods, Mea Shearim is home to ultra-Orthodox Jews or Haredim. This was the 5th settlement outside of the Old City walls established in 1874. The name means 100 gates or hundredfold and is thought to either come from a biblical verse or the fact that the neighborhood once had 100 gates. The neighborhood has narrow stone lanes and streets with small courtyards and homes entered through gates in the stone walls that line the streets. On your walk through the neighborhood, you will notice signs requesting “modest dress.” Visitors to this part of the city should respect the local residents by wearing modest clothing. Women should were tops with sleeves, not show a lot of cleavages and wear skirts below their knees. Men should not wear vests or shorts. During Shabbat (from sundown on Friday to sun up on Saturday) the neighborhood is in darkness. Visitors should also avoid using mobile phones, taking photos, or smoking in the neighborhood. A visit to Mea Shearim will give you an insight into an insular community that lives by the rules of the ancient Torah.Two Orthodox Jews burying a genizah at the Jewish Cemetery on Mount Olives. Photo byZoltan TasionUnsplash12. Israel Museum This comprehensive museum complex is Israel’s national museum. The Israel Museum covers a wide range of historic periods and artwork. In the permanent art galleries, you can see Israeli art, contemporary art, modern art, European art, design, photography, prints, drawings, and architecture, exhibits on world culture, and the Billy Rose Art Garden. The archaeological section covers discoveries from the Land of Israel, Islamic near Eastern excavations, the development of the alphabet, neighboring cultures, coins, and glass through the ages. A permanent section deals with Jewish art and life including traditional Jewish cultures from around the world, illuminated scripts, and the cycle of the Jewish year. There is a children’s wing where exhibits are geared towards younger visitors and there are regular activities for families (especially during Israeli school holidays). A highlight of the museum is the Shrine of the Book; a uniquely shaped building housing the Dead Sea Scrolls and the Aleppo Codex. There is also an impressive scale model of Jerusalem during the Second Temple Era. This is the ultimate Israeli museum for art and history so if you visit one museum in Israel it should be this one.Kurdish hat belonging to Jews from Kurdistan, now in the Israel Museum in Jerusalem. Photo byLevi Meir ClancyonUnsplash13. Kidron Valley This valley lies between the Mount of Olives and the walls of the Old City. Here you can see ancient tombs and olive trees. The valley was once a deep ravine and defensive border for the original City of David. King David would have run through here when fleeing Absalom (II Samuel 15:23) and Jesus would have walked here when visiting the village of Bethany and the Garden of Gethsemane. During the Second Temple period, a large bridge is believed to have spanned the valley connecting the Temple Mount and the Mount of Olives. Three monuments face the Old City walls. The Pillar of Absalom (King David’s rebellious son) is a tall ornate tomb hewn out of the rock face with a pointed roof. The Tomb of the Sons of Hezir has columns supporting a frieze and an inscription identifying this as the tomb of the biblical figure and his sons. The Tomb of Zachariah is next in line, it is a free-standing cube decorated with columns and topped with a pyramid-shaped roof. The Tomb of the Virgin Mary is at the foot of the Mount of Olive and is thought to be the burial place of Jesus’ mother. Today a church marks the site where rock-cut underground caves have been excavated. Visitors can descend 47 steps into the tomb and see an excavated sarcophagus uncovered here.Kidron Valley, Jerusalem, Israel.Photo credit: © Shutterstock14. City of DavidJerusalem as a whole is often referred to as the “City of David” but actually the original City of King David was located outside the Old City walls opposite the Dung Gate overlooking the Kidron Valley. Excavations have uncovered remains of the city along a ridge called the Ophel. The excavated buildings date back to the Jebusite and Israelite eras of the 10th century BC and although as yet no discovery has tied the ruins with King David the site has been named the City of David. Visitors must take a guided tour of the site. The visit includes a 3D presentation; a view of the excavated City of David from an Observation Deck; a visit to the royal compound of First Temple Jerusalem (Area G); Warren’s Shaft (an underground tunnel connecting the citadel to the Gihon water source) and a visit to the Siloam Pool of the Second Temple Era. Tours leave from the Visitors Center at the entrance to the City of David. There are three different themed tours titled Ascend to Zion, Family Tours of Biblical Jerusalem, and Enchanted Jerusalem.15. Haas PromenadeHaas promenade connects the neighborhoods of East Talpiot and Talpiot. The promenade continues on to connect with the Sherover and Goldman Promenades making one continuous public park area. The promenade looks down on the Old City and you can see as far as the Dead Sea. It is thought to be the biblical site where Abraham was shown Mount Moriah where he was to sacrifice his son Isaac. Although the site has seen historic events unfold it is famed for the view more than anything else. From here you can see the Dome of the Rock taking center stage, the walls of the Old City, Arab villages, olive groves, pine trees, and the Hills of Judea in the distance.Entrance to City of David, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © Shutterstockto credit: © Shutterstoc

The Galilee can be divided into the Upper Galilee, Western Galilee and Lower Galilee; each has its own charm and attractions. The Galilee is characteristically lush and green with many streams and lakes to cool yourself. It was also here that Jesus spent the years of his ministry and the area is full of significant locations which appear in the Bible. In addition to the top attractions at the Sea of Galileelisted below there are numerous nature reserves, hiking paths, places to ride horses and wineries.Church of Annunciation, Nazareth.Photo credit: © ShutterstockThe Best Attractions in Lower Galilee (Nazareth area)Church of the Annunciation - the Basilica of the Annunciation was built on the site believed by Roman Catholics to be where Mary was visited by the Angel Gabriel who told her of her impending pregnancy and future son. The church is said to be built on the grotto which was Mary’s childhood home in Nazareth. There were earlier churches on this site but the present structure was built in 1969. The most impressive part of the church is the courtyard where there are mosaics featuring the Virgin Mary and baby Jesus. The mosaics come from Christian communities around the world and each depicts the Holy figures as they see them for example the Japanese Madonna wears a kimono.St. Gabriel's Church of Nazareth - this is one of two Churches of the Annunciation in Nazareth, established in the Byzantine era and rebuilt in the Crusader era and later again in the 18th century. The church is built over the natural spring which Eastern Orthodox Christians believe to be where Mary was informed by the Angel Gabriel of her future son. On the ground level of the church, you can see the water running into a well. The church boasts a colorful wooden “templon” screen painted with religious icons. On the ceiling are murals and a golden chandelier.Interior of the Annunciation Chruch, Nazareth.Photo credit: © ShutterstockNazareth Village - this open-air museum is a reconstruction of biblical Nazareth featuring elements of village life in Galilee at the times of Jesus. Here you can see homes, olive presses, figures dressed in traditional period costumes, and see demonstrations of traditional crafts and domestic chores from 2,000 years ago. The site offers an interactive experience where you can try your hand at different activities.Mensa Christi Church of Nazareth - this Franciscan church was built in 1861 and is famed for the Table of Christ, a granite slab believe to be the rock Jesus used as a table when dining with the disciples after his resurrection. Today the slab forms the church altar. The church has recently been restored including the mosaics and dome. Although the church is locked most of the time it can be visited on request. The name Mensa Christi is also associated with a church in Tabgha, the Church of the Primacy of St. Peter.Ancient Bath House of Nazareth - The bathhouse is nestled between Mary’s Well and the Greek Orthodox Church of St. Gabriel in the shade of a tall ficus tree. When excavated artifacts were uncovered dating back to the ancient Roman era. Today there are guided tours of the caldarium, heated tunnels of the hypocaust, and the former furnace. There is a permanent exhibition about the excavations and above the site is a store selling local handmade craft items.Church of St. Joseph- this Romanesque church stands above the grotto thought to have been Joseph’s home and workshop in Nazareth. The church which stands here today was constructed in 1914 over the ruins of earlier churches. In the crypt, you can see mosaics, an ancient water pit, and 1st-century grottos.Capernaum, the town of Jesus.Photo credit: © ShutterstockMount Precipice - just south of Nazareth on the cliffs of Mount Kedumim is Mt. Precipice overlooking the Jezreel Valley and Mount Tabor.On the mount, excavations uncovered the remains of prehistoric settlements and 18 layers of ancient civilizations. One of the findings was a group of 13 Neanderthal skeletons dating back 50,000 years. On the top of the mount are several ancient tombs, cisterns, and a mosaic as well as breathtaking views. Mt. Precipice is mentioned in the Bible in Luke 4 16-30 when Jesus is driven from the synagogue and crowds threatened to throw him from the cliffs.Mount Tabor - just 9km east of Nazareth is the Mount of Transfiguration where the Old Testament tells of the battle between Barak and the Israelite Deborah. Christians believe this to be the site of the transfiguration of Jesus. Today the mount is a popular hiking and hand gliding site. Visitors can go to the hilltop Franciscan Church of Transfiguration or the Greek Church on the eastern slope.Capernaum- situated on the shore of the Sea of Galilee began as a small fishing village during the Hasmonean dynasty (c.140BC- c.116BC). It is mentioned in all four of the Gospels as the hometown of St. Simon Peter, James, Andrew, and John. Jesus is said to have taught in the synagogue, cured a Roman Centurion’s servant, and cured a possessed man. Today the village is known for the archaeological discovery of two synagogues built on the same site during different periods.One is a 4th-century white limestone structure and the older synagogue was built of local black basalt rock. Today visitors can see the ancient ruins of Capernaum within an excavation site where there is also a Late Roman synagogue and the octagonal-shaped church built above the excavated house of St. Peters. Within the church, you can look down through an opening in the floor and see the excavated house. The complex includes the ruins of Byzantine homes and early Roman houses.Megiddo (Armageddon). Photo credit: © ShutterstockTiberias - the capital of Galilee is one of the four Jewish Holy cities; it is located on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee. Today the city has many modern attractions, boat excursions, a craft market, and luxury hotels. Tiberius is also the site of a Greek Orthodox Church at the southern end of the modern city which used to be an Ottoman city. You can see the walls of the 18th-century Ottoman city which run right down to the water’s edge. There is an open-air museum of ancient artifacts among the high-rise hotels and at various points in the city, you can see the remains of the ancient Ottoman walls. Hamat Tiberias National Park is a spa of hot springs which was used as far back as the Romans. At the site, there is a small museum in part of the original building and a synagogue dating back to the 3rd-5th century AD with a magnificent mosaic.Tiberias has a famous cemetery with graves of both Jewish and Muslim deceased. The Greek Orthodox Church and Monastery of the Twelve Apostles is a religious complex where there are three chapels, St. Peters, Mary Magdalene's, and St. Nicholas’. The tomb of Rabbi Moshe Ben Maimon (Rambam or Maimonides) is located in Tiberias. Rambam is a revered Jewish sage and rabbi who died in 1204. Other sites in Tiberias include the Crusader’s St. Peter Church; the Citadel, now housing an art gallery; the Antiquities Museum; the excavated Jewish Court complex of 19th-century synagogues and the Scottish Compound, now a hotel and church which was once the 19th-century Scottish enclave.Mount Precipice.Photo credit: © ShutterstockJordan River - It is possible for Christians to be baptized in the Jordan Riverat one of the sites which claim to be where John the Baptist baptized Jesus. Although there is another baptismal site further south this is perhaps the most popular. Here there is a visitor’s center where you can buy a white robe to enter the water and get a certificate attesting to your baptism. There are steps and railings to help you get in and out of the water.Wedding Church - Cana is the town where Jesus turned water into wine at a wedding feast (John 2:1-11). The town of Cana is also referred to several times in the Bible in other contexts. The Franciscan Wedding Church commemorated the иiblical miracle, it was constructed in 1879 on a site where ancient stone wine jars were found. A nearby Greek Orthodox church is an alternative site of the miracle.Tel Megiddo - this tel or hill was a strategically important location in ancient times as it overlooked trade routes and the Jezreel Valley. At one point it was an important city-state and approximately 26 layers of ruined ancient civilizations have been found during excavations of the tel.The Greek name for the site is Armageddon and it is said to be the site where the final battle will take place during the end of time according to the Book of Revelations. Visitors can explore the archaeological site, enter through a Solomonic gateway; see an ancient altar; a grain pit; stables, and a complex water system with a 35-meter deep shaft and tunnel. There are also the remains of what may be the oldest remaining church in Israel.Jesus Trail- if you love to hike and want to really get to know the Galilee first hand then you can follow this hiking trail which links significantChristian sites in Galilee.Along the route, you will encounter Cana, Nazareth, a Roman Road, the Sea of Galilee, Tabgha, and Mount Tabor among other sites.Sea of Galilee. View from Photo by Johnnie Cohen on UnsplashThe Best Aattractions in Upper Galilee (Safed Area)Safed Visitors Center - not only can you get maps and info at this center but you can see a permanent exhibition, an excavation site under the building, and a short introductory film to the history and culture of Safed.Abuhav Synagogue - this Safed synagogue dates back to the original structure of the 1490s. The rest of the synagogue was constructed after an earthquake in 1837 destroyed most of the structure. The synagogue was built according to the Kabbalistic principle, there are ancient scrolls kept here and the walls are decorated with beautiful frescoes.Ashkenazi HaAri Synagogue - built in honor of Rabbi Isaac Luria, also known as the Ari. Luria was a Kabbalistic Rabbi who arrived in the city in 1570 and prayed in this synagogue. The highlight of this Safed synagogue is the beautifully painted Ark where Torah scrolls are kept.Sephardic HaAri Synagogue - this Safed synagogue is thought to have been built in 1522. Rabbi Luria also prayed here regularly. Legend has it that the Prophet Elijah would appear before the Rabbi as he sat studying here and enjoying the view of Mt. Meron. Meiri House Museum - the Meiri family settled here after immigrating from Iran in 1837. They established the country’s first dairy in this 16th-century house. The house has a fascinating history and was used for many purposes over the years. See a timeline of events in Safed history, see authentic furniture and historic household items and documents.Karo Synagogue - this historic building in Safed was once the headquarters of the rabbinical court and here Rabbi Karo, author of the Shulchan Aruch, together with other religious leaders laid down Jewish law.Mount Beatitudes.Photo credit: © ShutterstockInternational Center for Safed Kabbalah Visitor Center - have the Kabbalah experience, just like Madonna, Kushner, and other celebs. This ancient Jewish mystical belief is based on the religious book The Zohar. Here you can see audio-visual presentations, use interactive media stations, learn about Kabbalistic art and get brilliant views from the roof of the historic building which houses the center.Artists’ Colony, Safed - Wander the narrow cobbled streets with ancient stone buildings on either side. In the stores, you will find art galleries, Judaica, hand-made jewelry, pottery, weaving, and paintings all inspired by the spirituality atmosphere of Safed.Stam Center Safed - here you can learn about the art of writing holy texts for Torah scrolls, mezuzot, and tefillin. A writer of these texts needs to be highly skilled and follow strict rules. See a multi-sensory audio-visual presentation and learn about the mystical meaning behind Hebrew letters.Sea of Galilee - perhaps the highlight of any trip to the Galilee is a visit to the Sea of Galilee or Kinneret. The main source of Israel’s large freshwater lake is the Jordan River which flows in at the northern end and out at the southern end. The sea will be familiar to Christians as the site of many significant biblical events. Many chapels and churches on the seashore mark these events.It was here that Jesus walked on water, that he went to sea with the fishermen, and where they performed several miracles like calming the sea. Today visitors usually start their exploration of the Sea of Galilee in Tiberius, the largest city on the seashore. You can participate in water sports, swim, take boat excursions, use the beaches for camping or just enjoy the tranquil setting. You might like to enjoy a delicious meal of freshly caught fish from the Sea of Galilee.The Church of the Multiplication of the Loaves and the Fishes, Tabgha, Israel. Photo credit: © ShutterstockChurch of Mount of Beatitudes- the church on the summit of the Mount of Beatitudes marks the site where Jesus gave the Sermon on the Mount. Although earlier churches stood on this site the present church was commissioned by Benito Mussolini and designed by Antonio Barluzzi. The church has an octagonal shape representative of the eight Beatitudes. Inside there are beautiful mosaics and the roof bears an impressive dome.Domus Galilaeae - this modern church shared the peak of the Mount of Beatitudes and was completed in 2000. It is a large complex used for Christian seminars and conventions.Hula Valley - located above the Sea of Galilee, with the Hula Lake at its heart. The Hula Nature Reserve is a wetland and home to tens of thousands of aquatic birds. It is both a stop for migrating birds and home to local species. Visitors can walk along hiking trails and over floating bridges across the swamps or observe the birds from special “hides” or blinds. At the Oforia Visitors Center visitor can see a model of the Hula Valley, multimedia presentations with special effects, and dioramas. There are interactive computer screens with quiz questions.Manara Cliff - in the Upper Galilee, near the Lebanese border, this mount overlooks the Hula Valley. Visitors can hike or take a cable car to the top of Manara Cliff for amazing views. At the top of the mount, there are various attractions like arts and crafts for kids and extreme sports activities. To get down from the mount you can hand glide, hike, cycle, take the cable car, or take the super cool toboggan all the way down. Manara is popular with extreme sports enthusiasts who can try snappling, climbing, archery, and omega.Mount Meron - this is the highest peak in Israel (not including the Golan Heights) and the site of the highest nature reserve. Although not all the mount can be hiked there are marked paths in some areas. The mount has religious significance for the Jewish community as it is the site of the Tomb of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai (Rashbi) a 2nd-century sage. On the anniversary of the Rabbi’s death on the Jewish holiday of Lag BaOmer thousands of people gather on the mount to pay homage at the tomb.Rainbow in the Hula Valley.Photo by Shalev Cohen on UnsplashThe Best Attractions of the Coastal PlainRosh HaNikra grottoes - these chalk cliffs and sea caves are located on the border with Lebanon in the Western Galilee on the edge of the Mediterranean. In addition to having a fascinating history that includes pirates, arms traders, British troops, and a secret railway the site is simply breathtakingly beautiful.Visitors descend the white chalk cliff by cable car overlooking the sea and enter a 200-meter labyrinth of caves that have been formed over centuries by the water beating against the stone. The reflection of the white caves makes the water appear milky turquoise. In the vicinity are a number of nature reserves.Mount Carmel -Mount Carmel in northern Israel, near Haifa, is one of the world's 500 UNESCO bioreserves. It is home to unique plants, trees, and animals. Lots of hiking trails offer a plethora of activities and are accessible year-round. The word “karmel” is supposedly a compound of “kerem” and “el”, meaning "vineyard of God". In Jewish, Christian, and Islamic thought, Elijah is associated with Mount Carmel, and it is believed that he sometimes lived in a cave there.If you are interested in visiting top Galilee sites, join one of our Galilee and Golan tours.Limestone Grottos of Rosh Hanikra.Photo credit: © Shutterstock

The Jewish people are known for their scientific talent with great names like Albert Einstein, Robert Aumann and Konrad Emil Bloch. So it is not surprising that Israel has several top science museum. The museums are primarily geared towards children but the exhibits have been made to appeal to the whole family.Science Museum. Photo credit: © ShutterstockThe Clore Garden of Science, RehovotThe Clore Garden of Science is located on the grounds of the famous Weizmann Institute of science. The entire museum is outdoors so in hot weather bring a hat and water. The museum is run by the Davidson Institute of Science Education. The museum is completely hands-on with displays set up where kids can do experiments to see how different laws of nature work and prove them for themselves.The garden covers 10,000m² and the interactive exhibits focus on the laws of physics, solar energy, water power, and the role natural elements play in the world. Among the exhibits are a Solar Furnace, Pipes of Pan, a Resonant Pendulum, and a wave pool where the science of waves is demonstrated. In addition to the outdoor exhibits, there is an EcoSphere, a dome-shaped greenhouse where ecological principles are demonstrated. Young high school-age guides are on hand to give brief demonstrations, explain the various exhibits and give short tours.Address: Weizmann Institute, Rehovot, Sunday-Thursday 09:00-17:00, Saturday 09:00-19:00, Friday closed Family 220ILS, Children 5-18 50ILS, Adults 60ILSBloomfield Science Museum. Photo credit: © Maria MurashovaMadatech Museum, HaifaThe science museum is housed within a historic building that dates back to 1912. During WWI the building was used by the German Army as a slaughterhouse; in 1917 it became a military hospital for the Turkish Army and in 1918 came under the British. In 1923 Albert Einstein visited the building which had become the new Technion. Einstein became the president of the Technion Committee.Today the building houses Israel’s most famous science museum; there are more than 20 sections, 12 labs, 6 demonstration halls, and over 600 hands-on exhibits. Kids learn through the many games and by pressing buttons, pulling levers, and operating equipment. The exhibits are presented in themed sections so that all the energy-related exhibits are together etc. There is an outside area with more hands-on exhibits. The museum has a multi-sense 3D cinema where science-related movies are shown. The museum’s slogan is “explore, experience, discover and learn through play and fun.” There is an area for toddlers where they too can experiment in a safe play area.Address: The Israeli National Museum of Science, Technology and Space, Historic Technion Building, 25 Shmariyahu Levine St., Haifa Sunday-Wednesday 10:00-15:00, Thursday and Saturday,10:00-17:00, Friday 10:00- 13:00 Family (up to 4 people) 260ILS, Children 5-18, 65ILS, Adults 75ILSBloomfield Science Museum. Photo credit: © Katya SavinaBloomfield Science Museum, JerusalemThe museum exhibits are mostly hands-on and divided into thematic groups. There is an indoor and outdoor exhibition area. Although the themes are science-oriented there is a broader spectrum of exhibits that takes in technology, society, and art. Most of the exhibits have been created in-house in collaboration with the Hebrew University. The museum sections include Waterworks, Electricity, Discovering Levers, Games in Light and Shadow, CAPTCHA (about computers), Illusions, Flashlight in the Dark, Amusement Park, Testing and Measuring, and Water. Kids get to build apparatus and take part in regular activities. There is a Resource Center where you can read, see movies, use the Internet, and just hang out. The museum has a 3D cinema and films are an extra fee. There are daily guided tours, free talks, workshops, and science demonstrations.Address: Museum Blvd., Givat Ram, Jerusalem Sunday-Wednesday and Saturday 10:00-18:00, Thursday 16:00-22:00, Friday 10:00-16:00 Family (up to 4 people) 220ILS, Children under 5 free, All visitors over 5 years old 79ILS

Tels are prehistoric settlement mounds predominantly found in the Middle East. Megiddo, Hazor and Beersheba are three of 200 such tels in Israel, which contain significant remains of cities which have biblical connections. Excavation has found large multi-layered settlements which existed over the course of several millennia. The locations were probably chosen as settlement sites due to their strategic positions along important ancient trade routes and because of the available water supplies. The three tels are referred to as “biblical tels” as they appear in the Old Testament.Tel Hazor National Park, Israel. Photo credit: © Yuval Gassar. Published with permission of the Israel Nature and Parks AuthorityIn 2005 UNESCO declared these mounds as having outstanding universal value according to 4 criteria:1. The tels show an interchange of ideas and values between the east and west through trading, this can be seen in the many styles of building including those of Egypt and Syria;2. The tels offer a rare insight into the living conditions and lifestyle of the Canaan cities of the Bronze Age and the biblical cities of the Iron Age; 3. The development of Levant (Israel, Lebanon, Syria, and eastern Turkey) urban development evident in the tels had a great impact on future historic developments in the region;4. Having been mentioned in the Bible the three tels have spiritual and religious universal value.The findings at these tels show us that there was a centralized authority that controlled the important trade routes through the region. Thankfully the remains at each site have retained their integrity and have been left untouched for centuries. Over the course of time, the tels have become conical-shaped mounds with a flat top. The tels show evidence of sophisticated, geographically responsive, engineering in the ancient underground water systems designed to bring water to the cities. Ruins at Tel Megiddo National Park. Photo credit: © Avi Bahari. Published with permission of the Israel Nature and Parks AuthorityTel HazorTel Hazor is located in northern Israel near the Sea of Galilee and boasts one of the best examples of ancient ramparts in the Middle East. The ramparts enclosed the city with 9 meter high walls and there were two monumental gates. Its late Bronze Age palaces and temples stand out as some of the best in the Levant and the most complex in Israel. Excavation began at Tel Hazor in 1928 and later in the 1950s the well-known archaeologist Yigal Yadin led further excavations; in 1990 work was once again resumed on the site. A six-chambered stone gate was found which can be attributed to the time of King Solomon. The complex water system involved a 30-meter descending tunnel and a cave with a vaulted corridor. As with the other two tels, Tel Hazor held an important position at a major ancient crossroad. Tel Hazor National Park. Photo credit: © Doron Nissim. Published with permission of the Israel Nature and Parks AuthorityTel MegiddoTel Megiddo is just 50km southwest of Tel Hazor at the northern point of the Kishon River and has an unparalleled number of temples in its early Bronze Age temple compound, which shows that there was a continuity in the ritual activity on the Tel. This mound was the site of a powerful Canaan settlement that controlled the Via Maris, a route connecting Egypt with Syria, Anatolia, and Mesopotamia.Megiddo is referred to as Armageddon in the New Testament. The site was first excavated in 1903-5, then again in 1925-39, and again in the 1960s – 70s. Archaeologists uncovered around 30 different cities built one on top of the other on at least 20 levels. Another major archaeological find was an 80-meter long aqueduct that brought water from a spring at the foot of the mound up a vertical shaft to supply the city with fresh water.Tel Megiddo Archaeological Park. Photo credit: © Avi Bahari. Published with permission of the Israel Nature and Parks AuthorityTel BeershebaTel Beersheba is in southern Israel near the Negev Desert and the archaeological findings show an elaborate, oval-shaped and walled, Iron Age town plan unparalleled in the Levant. The well-planned town has a central square and an underwater drainage system as well as a well 69 meters below the ground. Excavation of Tel Beersheba only began in the 1960s. They discovered the remains of a 9th-century Judahite settlement which continued into the 8th century until it was destroyed by a fire during the Assyrian campaign. Among the remains is the Governor’s Palace with three long halls and several ancillary rooms.Tel Beersheba, Israel.Photo credit: © Nadav Taube. Published with permission of the Israel Nature and Parks Authority

If you’ve arrived in Israel and would like to do a bit of sightseeing in Tel-Aviv by bike, or if you want to avoid the city traffic then Tel-O-Fun offers you a solution. Tel-O-Fun is a bike rental system available to residents and tourists in Tel-Aviv. Throughout the city rental stations have a row of the bright green bicycles waiting for users? Each bike is locked to the bike stand and a simple procedure unlocks the bike. The bikes are one-size with 3 gears and have adjustable seats, a headlight, back light and small carrier area at the back. You can rent the bikes 24/7 and there is no need to book in advance. There are about 150 rental stations spaced within 500 meters apart. The bikes are not built to hold a child’s seat or an extra passenger on the back. The rider is responsible for his own safety as no insurance is included in the rental. Tel-Aviv is criss-crossed with many cycle paths and parks where you can cycle freely.bike rental stationHow Does Bike Rental in Tel-Aviv WorkGet to one of the bike stations where there is a service terminal in Hebrew, English and Arabic. Select whether you want a daily or weekly rental. Swipe your credit card to make a payment and you will receive a card with barcode which is used to release the bike from its docking station. Climb on the saddle and off you go!You can return the bike at any one of the bike stations; it doesn’t have to be the same one you took the bike from. Simply lock the bike on the left hand side of one of the docking poles. Be sure to wait until you hear a click of the lock which ends the rental process.How Much Does Bike Rental in Tel-Aviv CostThe fee includes an access fee plus a cumulative time fee for the amount of time you have the bike. For the first half hour there is no access fee. However you can’t take a bike, ride to another station within half an hour, return the bike and then rent another bike for free. If less than 10 minutes has passed between returning one bike and the same subscriber re-renting another bike the fee will be calculated cumulatively. If you are cycling for under half an hour it will charge you only the access fee (17ILS). Each credit card can be used to register up to four subscribers. Note that there is a fine for late return of 1,200ILS up to the first 24 hours and 800ILS for each additional day of delay. The maximum fine is 4,500ILS. Rentals must be at least 18 years old and have a credit card.Access Fee:Daily: 17ILS (Saturdays and public holidays 23ILS)Weekly: 70ILSAccumulative time fee:Up to 30 minutes: FreeUp to 60 minutes: 5ILSUp to 90 minutes: 10ILSUp to 150 minutes: 30ILSUp to 270 minutes: 270ILSAnd for each additional hour up to 24 hours: 100ILSIf for some reason you need more explanations or have difficulty renting your bike then see the Tel-O-Fun website; call Tel-O-Fun customer call center at *6070 (Sunday to Thursday 07:00-21:00 and Fridays and public holidays 07:00-14:00) or visit their Customer Service Center in the Tel-Aviv Municipality Building (Sunday-Wednesday 08:00-18:00 and Thursday 08:00-15:00).For more details visit the official site ofTel-O-Fun

Bethlehem is the place of Christ’s birth but also a thriving modern Palestinian city. Today visitors can travel to Bethlehem to see the exact place where Jesus was born. To reach Bethlehem tourists in Israel must go through a border crossing into the Palestinian Authority of the West Bank and travel past places like the Inn of the Good Samaritan and Shepherds’ Field where shepherds watched their sheep on the night of Jesus’ birth. Once in Bethlehem tourists can visit historic churches built to mark specific biblical sites.Bethlehem rooftop view. Photo credit: © ShutterstockAccording to an ancient Hebrew saying, “a man is the fruit of his home’s landscapes.” The Christ is no mere man, of course, but as God sent His only begotten son to walk among us, we should feel blessed for having the opportunity to know Him and walk in his footsteps, as well as witnessing with our own eyes the environment in which He was born.For that reason, many Christians choose to take a tour of Bethlehem. In order to provide themselves with the best and most convenient tour possible, many Christians choose to take guided Israel toursand receive information about the place from experts who know all there is to know about Jesus Christ, the city, and its connection with Christianity throughout the generations.When the word Bethlehem rises to mind one could not be held guilty if he or she thinks of faraway biblical times, but as we know Bethlehem is not just a city of the past. Adorned with amazing churches built by many congregations during many different periods, filled with many significant museums and artifacts and containing beautiful natural surroundings, while Jesus’ birth is of course the city’s main attraction, it is far from being the only one. A good tour of the city will not only enlighten you as to what the city was but also show you what it is today.Bethlehem in the BibleBethlehem features in the Old Testament as the birthplace of King David; it is also where Rachel was buried when she died in childbirth giving birth to Benjamin (Genesis 35:19). In the Bible, the city is referred to as Beth Lechem – House of Bread; the City of David and as Ephratah. Bethlehem is mentioned many times in the Bible, for example in Ruth; Genesis; Joshua; Samuel I; Judges, and John.The New Testament’s Book of Luke and of Matthew tells the story of the Nativity. Joseph and Mary, who was pregnant, traveled from their hometown, Nazareth in Galilee to Bethlehem, near Jerusalem. They made the journey because of a census that required each citizen to return to their ancestral town to register. As Joseph was from the House of David he needed to return to Bethlehem, the City of David. When the couple arrived they found the city overflowing with visitors and no accommodation was available. As Luke tells us: “Mary laid Jesus in a manger as there was no room in the inn.”The Shepherds' Field Chapel.Photo credit: © ShutterstockBethlehem HistoryLess than a century after Jesus’ death tradition had established a site in Bethlehem that was believed to be the place of Jesus’ birth. Many houses at the time had an adjacent cave that was used for storage and to house animals and so a cave became the venerated site of the nativity. In the 4th century St Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine took it upon herself to travel through the Holy Land authenticating biblical site. In 326 she commissioned a church to be built in Bethlehem around the nativity cave. A part of the floor mosaic of this original church can still be seen in the present Church of the Nativity. St Helena’s church was replaced in 530 by a larger structure that has survived. Under the Crusaders two kings were crowned in this church and it was completely redecorated in 1169. Despite later looting under the Ottomans, fires, and an earthquake the Church of the Nativity has survived.In modern times Bethlehem came under the British from 1920 to 1948 when the British Mandate was in place. The UN 1947 partition resolution included Bethlehem in the international enclave of Jerusalem which would be administered by the UN. However, just a few months later Jordan captured the city in the 1948 Arab-Israeli War and controlled the region until the Six-Day War in 1967 when Israel captured the West Bank including Bethlehem. Israel administered the city until 1995 when the Oslo Peace Accord placed Bethlehem within the Palestinian Authority West Bank and Israel withdrew from the area.Bethlehem TodayToday Bethlehem is home to Muslim and Christian Arabs who live mostly in harmony. The city’s economy depends largely on tourism as well as traditional products and handicrafts like Middle Eastern jewelry, olive wood carvings, olive oil, marble, and religious objects.Silver Star Marker of Jesus' Birth Site, Grotto of Nativity, Bethlehem.Photo credit: © ShutterstockBethlehem AttractionsManger Square – This is the first stop for Christina visitors to Bethlehem.Manger Square is bordered by the Nativity Church; the Mosque of Omar and the Palestinian Peace Center. Manger Square is the site of a festive gathering each Christmas Eve of Christians from across the globe who come to celebrate Christ’s birth.Church of the Nativity – Also known as the Basilica of the Nativity this church is built around the Holy Grotto of the Nativity, the oldest continually worshipped Christian site. Although originally built in the 4th century the present structure dates back to 565 with additions made later by the Crusaders. The earliest mention of the manger site in Bethlehem was by Justin Martyr in c.160 AD followed by a mention by Greek historian Eusebius of Caesarea.The structure we see today was commissioned by Christian Roman Emperor Constantine and his mother St. Helena in 326 AD. The church was built around the Sacred Cave. The original structure was replaced in 530 AD by a larger church but parts of the Constantinian floor mosaics can still be seen. Miraculously the church was not destroyed when the land came under the rule of the Persians and later Muslim rulers. During the Crusader era of the 11th century, Baldwin I and II were crowned in the Church of the Nativity.Under the Crusaders the church was renovated and redecorated. The church remained untouched under the Mamluks and Ottomans although precious marble was removed by the Ottomans for use in construction on Temple Mount Today the church is shared by the Roman Catholics, Greek Orthodox, and Armenian Churches. Church of Nativity, Bethlehem. Photo credit: © ShutterstockHighlights of the church include the Door of Humility; a small entrance to the church that requires visitors to bow down as they enter. It also served a practical purpose during the Ottoman era when looters couldn’t fit their carts through the doorway. The church’s wide nave is flanked by 44 columns painted with Crusader images and the walls are adorned with murals. There are two Greek Orthodox altars and an Armenian altar dedicated to the Three Kings (three wise men). The Chapel of the Manger is a Roman Catholic shrine with 12th-century mosaics. The Grotto of the Nativity lies beneath the church and is reached down a flight of stairs. A silver star marks the place where Jesus was born. A door connects the Church of the Nativity to the Church of St. Catherine.Church of St Catherine – Alongside the Church of the Nativity stands another historic church marking the site where Christ is said to have appeared to Saint Catherine of Alexandria. It was here that Christ is said to have predicted Catherine’s martyrdom when she was burnt on a wheel (hence: Catherine Wheel) at Mount Sinai in c.310. The church was dedicated in 1347; mentioned in records in the 15th century and enlarged in 1881. Manger Square, Bethlehem.Photo credit: © ShutterstockThe church is flanked on two sides by a Franciscan monastery where there is a beautiful cloister restored by Barluzzi using 12th-century capitals and columns from the monastery. Visitors to the church can descend a flight of steps to caves where there is the Chapel of the Holy Innocent; St. Joseph’s Chapel; Chapel of St. Eusebius; the Tomb of St. Paula and her daughter Eustochium and the Tomb of St. Jerome. Jerome is said to have translated the Bible in one of the church’s subterranean caves in 386 AD.Milk Grotto – Also called the Grotto of Our Lady and the Chapel of the Milk Grotto. It was here that the Holy Family took refuge when escaping from Herod’s decree to kill all newborn males (Massacre of the Innocents). As Mary nursed baby Jesus a little of her milk is thought to have dropped to the ground turning the cave surfaces white. A 5th-century Byzantine chapel once stood here and the present chapel dates back to 1872.PracticalitiesWhere to eat: Ha’agala, a country café located a short car drive or a beautiful bike ride away from Bethlehem, is a charming place for those who want to combine great food with relaxation. Ha’agala, Ha’Horesh 3, Alonei Aba.Where to sleep: Talitha Kumi Guest House is known for high standards and great service and is just five minutes walk from the most important destinations. B’eit Jala 7.A street in Bethlehem.Photo credit: © Shutterstock