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Kibbutz Nahal Oz is a name that will forever be associated with the horrific events of October 7, 2023, and the place will never be the same. The vibrant gardens, expansive fields, and farmlands once provided an idyllic life for the small community. Green lawns connected the kibbutz bungalows, gardens bloomed, and children rode their bikes along the kibbutz pathways. Today, the kibbutz is unrecognizable, and the ruins of the once-thriving community are a testament to the events of October 7.Kibbutz Nahal Oz back in 2015 (Image source: Shlomo Roded, CC BY 2.5)Plan Your VisitLocation:Kibbutz Nahal Oz, Sha’ar HaNegev, IsraelOpen Times:By appointment and with a guided tourPrices:Enquire about tours to Nahal Oz for accurate prices.Average Visit Duration:Half-day and full-day tours are available.Tours:Gaza Envelope Toursare available; Visits must be arranged in advance with a licensed company such as Bein Harim Tourism.Before the massacre on October 7th, Nahal Oz was thriving, and growing at a steady pace as new members joined the kibbutz. The community had a dairy farm, crop fields, and a chicken coop. The kibbutz farms specialized in carrots, wheat, cotton, and asparagus. Members of the community also ran a silicon plant and an engineering firm. Residents enjoyed a cultural center, schools, and a local bar. There was also a Visitor Center for Heritage, Security, and Agriculture. But they lived in the shadow of a constant threat. Rockets, exploding balloons, and burning kites were regularly sent across the border from Gaza, into the Nahal Oz fields.Where is Nahal Oz?Spread across about 140 acres, the kibbutz is located in southern Israel, in the northwestern part of the Negev Desert, not far from the border with the Gaza Strip. Neighboring towns include Sderot and Netivot.What Does Nahal Oz Mean?The literal translation of Nahal is a stream, and Oz means courage. But Nahal is also a Hebrew acronym for Fighting Pioneer Youths, and it is the name of an Israeli army brigade that combines military service with social welfare and educational programs. Before the 1990s, Nahal was also involved in establishing agricultural settlements, often along the country’s borders. The Nahal program helped establish about 108 kibbutzim and agricultural settlements. The first of these settlements was Kibbutz Nahal Oz.Defense wall around the Nahal Oz Kindergarten (Image source: Dr. Avishai Teicher CC BY 2.5)In 1951 Nahal Oz was founded as a military post, in 1953 it evolved into a civilian community that lived as a communal farm. In 1955, the kibbutz was officially formed. The group of young, patriotic Israelis had agricultural training and were also able to protect the fledgling kibbutz from any attacks.They built, plowed, sowed, and planted on the former land of Be’erot Yitzhak Kibbutz which had moved further inland. At first, there were no fences, just open fields around the small community. The kibbutz experienced regular infiltrations by thieves, and Fedayeen (Palestinian militants), which culminated in the tragic murder of one of the kibbutz security officers, Ro’i Rothberg in 1956.On the day of Ro’i Rothberg’s murder, the community was preparing for the wedding of four kibbutz couples, and even the country’s Chief of Staff, Moshe Dayan was invited. In the morning, as food was being prepared, and decorations hung for the weddings, there were reports of an infiltration across the fields.Ro’i set out on his horse to chase the infiltrators away, but instead, he was murdered, his body mutilated, and dragged into Gaza. A day that was supposed to be filled with joy, became one of mourning, and instead of singing and dancing, the first grave was dug on the kibbutz.In the years that followed, Nahal Oz still had to contend with frequent attacks, burned fields, and shelling. Each time they would replant their fields and continue. Fences were built, and rebuilt, but nothing could prepare them for October 7th.Nahal Oz Massacre on October 7th AttackBy 2023, Nahal Oz had a population of approximately 400-500. The Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah on October 7, 2023, was supposed to be a day of celebration as Nahal Oz marked its 70th anniversary. But there were no celebrations. In the early hours of October 7, an estimated 100 -150 Hamas terrorists and Palestinian civilians broke through the fence dividing Gaza from Israel and entered Nahal Oz. Nahal Oz was one of several communities in the Gaza envelope targeted that day, as well as an open-air music festival happening nearby.The terrorists found families still asleep, or only just waking up. They massacred whole families, took hostages, tortured, raped, and mutilated the residents of Nahal Oz. There was hardly a family that was unaffected by this unimaginable tragedy. Almost a quarter of the kibbutz members were either murdered or kidnapped.In addition to the bloodshed, the terrorists burned and destroyed property, and stole or destroyed all of the kibbutz’s farming equipment. The Hamas terrorists filmed their attack with GoPro cameras and uploaded evidence of the atrocities to social media. By the early afternoon, Israeli soldiers had arrived, and by nightfall, Israeli forces had cleared the kibbutz of all infiltrators.Kibbutz Nahal Oz Since October 7thThe surviving residents were evacuated, and Kibbutz Nahal Oz was declared a closed military area. The residents left behind their homes, land, and belongings, as well as their farms. As the war raged in Gaza, they gradually returned to the kibbutz to work the land and milk the cows.However, the Nahal Oz community has not yet made a plan to return to the kibbutz. They have been rehoused in other parts of the country, and are contemplating if and when to return to the place they once called paradise.In a hostage exchange deal in November 2023, 40 of the abducted Nahal Oz residents were returned to Israel. Among those still held in Gaza is one-year-old Kfir Bibas, the youngest abductee, but it is still not clear whether he is alive or dead.Places To Visit In and Around Nahal Oz KibbutzKibbutz Nahal Oz is still as it was in the aftermath of October 7th, debris lies on the ground, buildings are pockmarked with bullet holes, and personal items have been abandoned. You can tour the attack sites, and visit the kibbutz dairy farm (the feeding and milking have continued). See the graffiti dedicated to those who lost their lives and those who fought so bravely.Nova Music Festival in Re’im Forest where the October 7 terrorists took the lives of approximately 364 people. There are several memorials at Nova.Netivot is where the piles, and piles, of destroyed and burned vehicles have been collected from the October 7 attack.Kobi Hill offers an overview of the Gaza Strip.Sderot is one of the frontier towns where you can learn about the bomb shelters and protected bus shelters, and see some of the rockets that have been repurposed or turned into art.Nahal Oz Military Baseis not part of the nearby Kibbutz Nahal Oz. It was also attacked on October 7, and It is possible to see the outside of the base.Roadside rest stationsoffer Israeli soldiers a brief break and provide them with free meals, showers, and laundry services. Here you might be able to meet and chat with some of the soldiers.Should You Visit the Gaza Envelope?While the country is at war, the Gaza Envelope remains a volatile area, however, people still live and work in the region, and tours are provided for those who wish to bear witness to the events of October 7. Visiting the Gaza Envelope area is not a matter of gawping at the pain and suffering of others, but rather a gesture of solidarity with the people of Nahal Oz and Israel as a whole.

Kibbutz Be’eri is located less than 4-5km from the border with Gaza, in the north-western Negev Desert of southern Israel. For decades the community of approximately 1,200 lived an idyllic rural life with comfortable homes surrounded by greenery.That all changed on October 7, 2023, when Be’eri was one of several communities along the Israel-Gaza border that was brutally attacked by hordes of Hamas terrorists. The death and destruction of that day changed the kibbutz forever.The Birth of Kibbutz Be’eriOn October 6, 1946, Be’eri was one of 11” test farm” communities established by HaNoar HaOved VeHaLomed (Working and Studying Youth) a movement consisting of passionate young Zionists, dedicated to purchasing land for Jewish settlements. They wanted to see if the arid land of the Negev could be farmed.The kibbutz was named after Berl Katznelson, a prominent force behind the Zionist movement in the early 1900s. (Be’eri was his pen name). When Israeli independence was declared in 1948, Israel was attacked on all sides. The Egyptians bombed Kibbutz Be’eri, but it was never conquered. After the war, the kibbutz moved 3 km southeast.Initially, it was a struggle, there was no infrastructure, a lack of agricultural tools, and scorching temperatures. But the settlers held strong and slowly built the foundation of what would eventually be one of the wealthiest kibbutzim in Israel.In more recent times the residents have become accustomed to the regular sirens warning of incoming rockets from Gaza, none of which destroyed any Be’eri homes or killed any people (until October 7). Each house has a bomb shelter, and everyone knows the drill. They had 15 seconds to get to safety.Be’eri’s farms also suffered from the proximity to Gaza with burning kites, and exploding balloons often being sent across from Gaza to burn the kibbutz’s fields. Still despite this, it was a slice of paradise for those who chose to live on Kibbutz Be’eri. But nothing could prepare them for October 7, 2023.Life on Kibbutz Be’eriPrior to October 7, the community lived in harmony, they had a large communal dining hall, a shady square, and even a theater. There were neat paths, green lawns, and beautiful trees. The residents strived to build a peaceful relationship with the neighbors in Gaza, and volunteers from Be’eri would help transport Palestinian cancer patients from Gaza to Israeli hospitals for treatments. They also employed Palestinians from Gaza on the kibbutz and have a fund to help them financially.The kibbutz was known for its cultural events, communal singing, farming, and industry. Be’eri’s economy is traditionally based on agriculture and they cultivate potatoes, peanuts, and jojoba trees (for the oil used in cosmetics).Before October 7, the kibbutz had a thriving cultural and commercial life, some of these activities have ceased while others are slowly re-establishing themselves.Lalush Bakery - The kibbutz bakery sold hand-made cookies, cakes, pastries, and bread.Ayuna Carpentry Boutique and Furniture Store - All the furniture sold in this trendy store was made in the adjacent workshop.La Medavesh (The Bike Peddler) - The Kibbutz Be’eri bike center rented and sold bikes.Be’eri Dairy Farm - Cheese was made with milk brought directly from the Be’eri dairy, and traditional methods were used with no additives.The Gallery - Be’eri had a venue for exhibiting Israeli art, often by renowned artists. Depending on the exhibition, The Gallery displays include paintings, sculptures, photography, installations, and prints. There are plans underway to rebuild The Gallery.Dfus Be’eri - The most successful enterprise on the kibbutz was and is the Be’eri Printers. They do regular printing as well as printing driver’s licenses, and passports.Kibbutz Be'eri Massacre on October 7th AttackIn the early hours of Saturday, October 7, 2023, the holiday of Simchat Torah, when Jews celebrate receiving the Torah at Mount Sinai, hundreds of armed Hamas terrorists broke through the Gaza border fence and infiltrated Kibbutz Be’eri and other nearby communities. They entered the kibbutz from three directions and went on a killing spree.The youngest victim was ten-year-old Mila Cohen and the oldest was 88-year-old Hannah Kritzman. Approximately 96 kibbutz members were slaughtered, and at least 26 people were taken into Gaza.The terrorists were accompanied by a Palestinian journalist who broadcast live throughout the massacre, and the terrorists filmed their actions with GoPro cameras. Gaza citizens joined in the rampage and destruction, gleefully looting the kibbutz homes and businesses.Eventually, Israeli army forces arrived but it took two days to clear the kibbutz or any danger fully. First responders testified to having seen the aftermath of rape, mutilations, and decapitations. A large number of kibbutz buildings and homes were burned to the ground, or riddled with bullets.Be’eri After October 7thFollowing their evacuation, the residents of Be’eri moved to temporary accommodation. About a week after the massacre Dfus Be’eri was reopened and about a month and a half later the farmers began sowing wheat in the kibbutz fields. It took about six months before the residents could begin contemplating living on the kibbutz again. In a hostage exchange, several of the abducted kibbutz members were returned to Israel.Many of the homes are still in ruins, with broken tiles, shards of glass on the ground, gutted roofs, and belongings scattered on the ground. On parts of the kibbutz, time has stood still, capturing the scene of October 7 with broken children’s toys, overturned furniture, mounds of rubble, and objects burned until they are no longer recognizable. Some of the residents have returned to the kibbutz to try and rebuild their lives.Sites to Visit in the Gaza EnvelopeSderot - This is one of the largest communities in the area where you can learn about the bomb shelters, and see repurposed rockets.Nova Music Festival Site - On October 7, the terrorists attacked revelers at this outdoor music festival, raping, mutilating bodies, and taking the lives of approximately 364 people.Moshav Tkuma - The overwhelming sight of 800 burned and destroyed vehicles piled high from October 7, can be seen at Moshav Tkuma.Kibbutz Nahal Oz - Visit this devastated community which was attacked on October 7.Gaza Envelope Communities - You could visit other communities in the Gaza periphery including Kibbutz Holit, Moshav Yated, and Ofakim.Meet and Volunteer - Meet the people who live and work in the Gaza Envelope and learn about their complexity and challenges. There are several volunteer opportunities in the area including helping the farmers.Black Arrow Monument - Here there is a lookout point toward the Gaza StripYad Mordechai - This community in the Gaza periphery has a thriving honey business, and you can visit their bee house and learn about the honey-making process.ANZAC Monument - Not far from Kibbutz Be’eri is the ANZAC Monument commemorating Australian and New Zealand soldiers who lost their lives here in the battle between the British and the Ottoman forces during World War.Plan Your VisitLocation - Kibbutz Be’eri, northwestern Negev, Southern IsraelOpen Times - This is the site of a major tragedy for the community and Jewish People, and out of respect, it should only be visited with a guided tour.Prices - Check for tour prices.Average Visit Duration - Half-day and full-day tours of Kibbutz Be’eri and the Gaza Envelope are available.Tours - As this is still a sensitive area and an emotionally-charged site where people lived, and many died, tourists should only visit with an organized tour.

Reim is a small, secular kibbutz within 7km of the Gaza Strip in southern Israel’s Gaza periphery or Gaza Envelope. The kibbutz was initially called “Tel Reim” or Hill of Friends, the Hebrew translation of the adjacent archaeological site - Tel Jemmeh. Eventually, it became simply “Reim” or Friends in honor of kibbutz members who lost their lives in the Israeli War of Independence in 1948.The main sources of income for kibbutz Reim are agriculture and a laser company called Isralaser. Other industries on the kibbutz include IsraBig, which manufactures machine tools, and a room letting business. The agricultural side of the kibbutz included orchards, a chicken coop, and crop fields.As of 2008, the kibbutz's economy was based on agricultureIn 2008 the kibbutz embarked on an ambitious project to become the first Israeli community to rely completely on solar energy for domestic consumption. Over the years, Reim and the rest of the Gaza Envelope communities became the target of rockets, burning kites, and explosive balloons sent across the border from Gaza. Each home had a safe room (residential shelter) with reinforced walls and doors. When sirens were heard warning of incoming rockets from Gaza, the residents of Reim had 8-15 seconds to reach their safe room.Plan Your VisitLocation- Kibbutz Reim, northwestern Negev, Southern IsraelOpen Times- The kibbutz stands in ruins, as yet the residents have not returned, but it was once their home, and that needs to be respected. Visiting independently is not advised both for safety reasons and out of respect for the people who lived through October 7.Prices- Only visit Kibbutz Reim with a guided tour, check for tour prices.Average Visit Duration- Half-day and full-day tours of the Gaza Envelope can include Kibbutz Reim.Tours- The Gaza Strip Envelope Private Tour is availablethrough Bein Harim Tourism to bear witness to the horror of October 7, and show solidarity with those who have suffered.The Establishment of Kibbutz ReimWhen the State of Israel was established in 1948, the Jewish underground forces of the Palmach that had battled against the British were demobilized. Some members joined the new Israeli Defense Force and some formed the Israel Boys and Girls Scouts Federation.It was this group that in 1949, built Kibbutz Reim at the confluence of the Besor and Gerar streams, on the edge of the Negev Desert. Kibbutz Reim. The kibbutz grew as young families joined, looking for a high quality of life in a cooperative community and a rural environment. By 2023 the kibbutz was home to approximately 435 people.Kibbutz Reim Before October 7, 2023The pastoral community on Reim Kibbutz lived a quiet life, with comfortable housing, and everything they needed within the agricultural collective. They had a supermarket, clinic, swimming pool, green lawns, a school, and gardens. They regularly celebrated cultural events such as festivals, and exhibitions. The kibbutz was known for its landscaped gardens, wide paths, and rich community life. Residents had playgrounds, a club, a gym, a museum, a pub, and regular services within the community such as hairdressers, a locksmith, and a post office.Reim Massacre on October 7th AttackMore than 100 armed Hama terrorists entered Kibbutz Reim as the sun was rising on October 7, the Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah, the last day of Sukkot. It was part of an organized attack on several communities in the Israeli territory adjacent to Gaza known as the Gaza Envelope or Gaza Periphery.Reim Kibbutz’s six-member security team did its best to hold off the infiltration but to no avail.Members of the kibbutz were trapped in their homes, hiding from the rampaging Hamas terrorists who violently tore through the community. Reim residents who survived remained in their homes for over 24 hours during the attack.In the aftermath, they found that 5 kibbutz members and two Thai workers had been killed. One teenage resident, Liam Or, and four Thai workers were taken hostage in Gaza. Not far from the kibbutz, another massacre was taking place at an open-air music festival, the Nova Party.Reim Nova Festival Massacre October 7th AttackA weekend-long trance music festival (Supernova nature party) was being held in several Reim kibbutz fields. At dawn, rockets began flying over the festival goers. They knew that this was a common occurrence near Gaza, but the rocket barrage did not end, it just kept going.Next armed Hamas terrorists drove into the crowd of 3000+ partiers, on motorcycles and trucks. Others landed by engine-driven paragliders. Revelers scattered in all directions running for their lives, chased by terrorists on a mission to kill as many Jews as possible. They indiscriminately shot into the crowd, mutilated the bodies of partygoers, raped women, and took hostages.Most of the people attending the festival had arrived by car, and as chaos erupted, they headed for their cars and tried to escape death. But the cars were met on the roads by rampaging terrorists who shot them down and burned the cars.Some of the innocent partygoers managed to escape, others hid for hours in orchards, ditches, and safe rooms until they were rescued. At least 364 people were murdered and 40 people were taken hostage from the party.Reim Since October 7 AttackSince that tragic day, the kibbutz has remained abandoned, its residents were initially evacuated to Eilat and later moved to Tel Aviv. All of the Reim hostages were returned to Israel during a hostage exchange deal. Several farmers remained at the kibbutz to maintain the agricultural operations, while the rest of the residents wish to return to Reim once it is safe.What Can You See and Do in and Around Kibbutz Reim? Tel Jemmeh - A 23-meter-high archaeological mound adjacent to Reim Kibbutz, has been identified as a Canaanite royal city. There are several other archaeological sites in the area including Horvat Grarit.Nova Party Site - See where the largest massacre of Jewish people since the Holocaust took place. Trees have been planted at the festival area by the families of victims to commemorate their lost ones.Moshav Tkuma - See the huge pile of 800 burnt and destroyed cars, as a result of the Hamas attack on the Nova party site.Kibbutz Be’eri - Also hit tragically by the Hamas attack was Kibbutz Be’eri, one of the wealthiest and largest of the communities in this area. The devastation has been left for the time being as a reminder of that awful day.Kibbutz Nahal Oz - Another victim of the October 7 attack was this kibbutz where you can see the destroyed homes and farms.Gaza Envelope Volunteer Opportunities - It is possible to volunteer with several organizations to help the communities of the Gaza Envelope recover.Ofakim - See the police station held under siege by Hamas and eventually infiltrated. Learn of the heroic rescue operation that returned the police station to Israeli hands.Kfar Aza - Attacked by Hamas on October 7, this community lost 70 members slaughtered by Hamas, and 18 were abducted to Gaza.Graffiti Art - Tour the bomb shelters of the area which have been painted with poignant graffiti art commemorating the events that changed the Gaza communities forever.

Ofakim (Horizons in Hebrew) is a city in southern Israel 25 km northwest of Be’er Sheva and about 25km from the border with the Gaza Strip. The vibrant city is known for its diverse population, strong sense of community, and commitment to fostering innovation and growth. Surrounded by the Negev desert, it boasts stunning landscapes and sunny weather year-round. With its bustling markets, cultural venues, and parks, Ofakim offers a blend of modern amenities and traditional charm. However, Ofakim was one of the communities attacked on October 7, 2023, by Hamas terrorist infiltrators, and this event put Ofakim in the headlines and changed the city forever.History of OfakimFounded in 1955 with the intent to develop the Negev region, and become an urban hub for the surrounding rural communities. The first residents were new immigrants, with the majority being Moroccan Jews. In the first few years, the standard of living was low, homes were rudimentary huts or shacks, and there was high unemployment and many social problems. But as industries developed in the area, the economy grew and Ofakim also welcomed new immigrants from the former Soviet Union and Ethiopia.In the 1990s Ofakim had the highest unemployment rate in the country, and approximately a third of its residents were living on welfare. But after a change in city management Ofakim strived to make improvements, and they seemed to have turned things around.As the city developed it gained a tennis center, soccer stadium, and the impressive Nahal Shomriya Cycle Route. New railway lines connected Ofakim to Be’er Sheva, and after years of stagnation new housing, youth centers, cultural venues, and infrastructure projects were developed. Then came October 7, 2023.Herzl Boulevard - the entrance to the city of OfakimOfakim Massacre on October 7th AttackOn October 7, Ofakim was the furthest community from the border to be attacked by infiltrating Hamas terrorists. It started when an unprecedented number of rockets were fired from Gaza in the direction of the city. Then as dawn was breaking Hamas terrorists entered the Ofakim neighborhood of Mishor Hagafen, and began killing anyone they encountered. They were well-armed with grenades, RPGs, and rifles.A battle took place between the terrorists and Ofakim residents including police officers, local security forces, and citizens armed with knives, and any weapon they could get hold of. Thanks to the heroic response of the residents, the magnitude of the death and destruction in Ofakim was limited. Within five hours 50 people were killed by the terrorists.The residents of Ofakim hid in their homes for many hours, some even stayed in hiding until the following day, scared that there may be terrorists still lurking in the city. In the aftermath, it has taken the residents of Ofakim many weeks, and some even months to go back to life as usual. You can still see bullet holes in buildings, and in places, there are even blood stains that have not yet been removed.Racheli of OfakimWhen five terrorists entered the home of Rachel and David Edry, the couple used their charm and some tasty food prepared by Rachel to distract the captors from their mission to kill. Rachel chatted and joked with the terrorists to stay alive until they could be rescued. She repeatedly asked to go to the bathroom where she signaled to the Israeli soldiers watching the house, giving them information about how many terrorists were in the house and where they stood.The ordeal went on for 15 hours until 3am on Monday morning. Ultimately the couple was rescued when a police SWAT team entered the home and killed all of the terrorists. Racheli’s home became a tourist attraction overnight, with people stopping by to take photos of the bullet-riddled walls.Foreign Secretary James Cleverly visits the house of David and Rachel Edri(Image source: UK Government CC BY 2.0)Things to See and Do in and Around OfakimOfakim Park - Situated east of Ofakim, this large 125-acre green oasis is home to the historic Patish Fortress, hike paths, and cycle routes. Ofakim Park is closed for maintenance until further notice.HaBsor Park (Eshkol Park) - A large, beautiful park with a cool spring and freshwater pools, a reconstructed train bridge from the British Mandate period, and an archaeological site from the ancient Egyptian period.Be’er Sheva - A large city with several points of interest including Lunada Children’s Museum, ANZAC Memorial Center, a restored Ottoman mosque and railway station, Be’er Sheva River Park, and a dynamic Old City.Israel Airforce Museum -The Israeli Air Force Museum is located at Hatzerim Airbase in the Negev desert. The museum was established in 1977 and has been open to the public since 1991Kibbutz Be’eri - One of the communities attacked on October 7, here you can bear witness to the destruction caused by the Hamas terrorists. Approximately 96 kibbutz members were murdered and 26 were taken hostage.Kibbutz Reim and Nova Music Festival Site - On October 7, Hamas terrorists went on a killing spree rampaging through crowds of people who had gathered for a music festival near Kibbutz Re’im. At least 364 festival-goers were massacred and 40 taken hostage in Gaza. It is possible to tour the site with a guide.Rachel’s House - In Ofakim, see the house where Rachel charmed the Hamas terrorists and kept them distracted for 15 hours while she and her husband waited to be rescued by Israeli forces.

Plan Your VisitLocation: Negev, South IsraelOpen Times: 24 hoursPrices: FreeAverage Visit Duration: 1-2 hoursRelevant Tours: To visit Moshav Tekuma, we recommend taking a one of theGaza Strip Envelope Tours.Tkuma (Hebrew: Resurrection) is a religious moshav in southern Israel, located northwest of Netivot under the jurisdiction of the Sdot Negev Regional Council.Tkuma was originally established as a kibbutz on the night of October 5–6, 1946, as one of the 11 points in the Negev. The first settlers were Jewish immigrants from Eastern Europe who had survived the Holocaust, and the village's name symbolizes the resurrection of Israel.In 1949, the village relocated to its current site near the former Arab village of al-Muharraqa. Scholar Benny Morris notes that Tkuma is near the site of al-Muharraqa, while writer Walid Khalidi states that Tkuma, though only 2 km west of al-Muharraqa, is on land historically associated with Gaza.During the 1950s, additional immigrants from Eastern Europe and Tunisia joined the moshav.Located just five kilometers from the Gaza Strip, Tkuma has sustained damage from rocket attacks by Hamas militants during the 2000s and 2010s. The moshav is protected by the Color Red alert system.October 7, 2023AttackOn October 7, 2023, during the Hamas-led attack on Israel, terrorists arrived at Tkuma but did not enter the moshav because its gates were closed. However, the nearby Re’im music festival was one of the attack’s primary targets. In response to the massacre, the Car Wall, also known as the Car Graveyard, was erected just west of Tkuma. This memorial consists of burnt and destroyed vehicles belonging to victims who were attacked while trying to escape. The site stands as a powerful tribute to those who lost their lives and a stark reminder of the attack’s brutality.Moshav Tkuma Car Graveyard (Image source: Zeev Stein CC BY 2.5)EconomySince the 1990s, fish farming has become a key economic sector. The sale of fresh fish to banquet halls and restaurants in the northern Negev provides income for several families.ArchaeologyIn 1964, at Yizre'am, about one kilometer southwest of Tkuma, archaeologists discovered a clay stamp bearing a Greek inscription, identifying it as belonging to "Silvanus."

Plan Your VisitLocation: In front of the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, 27 Shaul HaMelech Street, Tel AvivOpen Times: 24 hoursPrices: FreeAverage Visit Duration: 1-2 hoursSpecial Events: There are regular events at this Square, including Friday evening ‘Kiddush’ (blessings to welcome in the Sabbath), ‘Singing for Their Return’ each Tuesday and regular lectures by friends and relatives of those being held captive. Visitors are welcome to step inside the tent and talk to locals there, to hear their personal stories, offer words of comfort and gain a deeper appreciation of the situation.Relevant Tours: To learn more about the events of October 7th, we recommend taking a one of theGaza Strip Envelope Tours. And for anyone who wants to enjoy the many attractions of this fantastic Mediterranean city, there are a number of day tours in Tel Aviv to suit every taste - from street art to local food tastings, cycle trips and walking tours in the nearby magical city of Jaffa,Before 7th October 2023 a public square in front of one of Israel’s best-known museums but now the unofficial headquarters for the campaign to release all captives(#bringthemhomenow) visiting Hostages Square is both moving and humbling and essential for anyone who wants to learn more about this devastating chapter of Israeli history.The first thing that tends to catch the eye of visitors is the ‘Shabbat table’ installation. Shabbat (which arrives each Friday night in Israel) is a central focus of many Jews, and this large, empty table - set for a festive meal - with empty seats (each one with a picture of a hostage on a chair) is incredibly poignant. Indeed, for many it really brings home the enormity of the situation and many Israeli families are missing a loved one.Hostages Square also holds a mock-up of a Gaza tunnel, since many of the captives are currently being held below ground, without sufficient air and light. You can walk through this claustrophobic 25-metre space, whilst listening to recordings of gunfire and bombs dropping, and as a simulation it really brings home the plight of those being held up to 40 metres below ground.New artwork is appearing constantly, including pieces featuring traditional yellow ribbons and essays on individual hostages, giving you the chance to put a name to a face and a story. There’s also an opportunity to buy merchandise from volunteers - from t-shirts and flags to yellow pins and silver dog tags, all monies raised go to the campaign.Whilst many might think that a visit to such a space is too depressing, many who make the journey here leave humbled and with a whole new level of appreciation for basic things (including our very freedom) we take for granted. A visit to Hostages Square is a must for anyone travelling to Tel Aviv, since not only will you learn more about the events of this tragic day, but come away with a deep understanding of how energetic, lively and indomitable the Israeli spirit is.

This Jerusalem and Dead Sea tour starts on Mount Scopus where we enjoy an incredible view across the rooftops of Jerusalem. Your guide will point out highlights on Mount Scopus like the Garden of Gethsemane, Church of All Nations, and Kidron Valley below. Driving through the stunning Jerusalem scenery the tour reaches the Old City and enters by way of the Zion Gate.Within the 500-year-old Old City walls, we see the Armenian Quarter and head for the ancient Jewish Quarter. See the excavated 1,500 year old Byzantine Cardo, an ancient street lined with tall columns. The Jerusalem tour visits the sacred Western Wall, a remnant of the Second Holy Temple’s outer retaining walls. This wall survived the Temple’s destruction in 70AD and is now a holy Jewish landmark.The tour traces Jesus’s route to his crucifixion from the 5th Station of the Cross along the sacred Via Dolorosa. Bearing his cross Jesus reached Calvary which is now encompassed by the massive Church of the Holy Sepulcher. We enter this iconic Christian landmark and see many chapels and Biblical sites like the Stone of Unction and Christ’s burial tomb. Before leaving the Old City we take a lunch break and then make our way through the Old City bazaar. Driving through the stunning desert scenery we can see Jericho in the distance. The tour pauses briefly at the sign indicating “sea level” then we descend lower and lower until we reach the Dead Sea at 430m below sea level.The tour takes you to a Dead Sea beaches where you can relax on the sand, soak up the sun and float in the water. The Dead Sea environment is known to have natural health and beauty benefits. While here you can lather your skin with mineral-rich Dead Sea mud. Get a classic photo floating in the Dead Sea where the high saline content gives you natural buoyancy! After completely unwinding and feeling rejuvenated the tour comes to an end.

This Jerusalem half-day tour begins on Mt. Scopus where we enjoy breathtaking views of the Jerusalem skyline. From this elevated position, we see across the walls of the Old City to Temple Mount, the site of the sacred Temple until its destruction in 70 AD. On the slopes of Mt. Scopus, we pass a 3,000-year-old Jewish cemetery; the Garden of Gethsemane, and the Church of All Nations. We drive past large ancient Jewish tombs of the biblical Kidron Valley.The tour takes you through the Zion Gate, one of several gates in the Ottoman-era Old City walls. We reach the picturesque Jewish Quarter where a 1,500-year-old Byzantine street, the Cardo has been excavated. The tour stops at the iconic Western Wall, the most sacred Jewish landmark in the world. This section of wall is only a small part of the outer retaining walls that once surrounded the Second Holy Jewish Temple on Temple Mount. In 70 AD the Romans destroyed the Temple and only this section (and its continuation below ground) has survived. You’ll have time to place a prayer note in the crevices of the wall.We continue on our half day Jerusalem tour and join up with the Via Dolorosa at the 5th Station of the Cross. We retrace the path Jesus took bearing his cross from his judgment to his crucifixion at Calvary. The Way of Sorrow culminates at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre which encompasses the final Stations of the Cross where Jesus died on the cross and was placed in a burial tomb. Today the ornate 4th-century church is shared by several Christian denominations and holds more than 30 chapels. To end this Jerusalem half-day tour we walk through the traditional Old City bazaar where you can enjoy the colorful character of a Middle Eastern market.

This Jericho, Jordan River and Dead Sea tour operates from October to May and takes visitors to a number of stunning locations. All highlights mentioned here are visited on this tour but not necessarily in this order. The Jericho, Jordan River and Dead Sea Tour visits the city of Jericho, one of the oldest cities in the world. Jericho features in the Bible where Joshua and his troops caused the city walls to fall in the Battle of Jericho. In the Book of Luke Zacchaeus climbs a sycamore tree to see Jesus over the crowds that had come out to greet him as he entered Jericho. On this tour we visit the ancient sycamore tree that features in this Biblical story. While in Jericho the tour visits Elisha’s Spring. This spring supplied the city with fresh water over the course of thousands of years. Without the spring people would not have been able to survive in this harsh environment. Just 2 km from Jericho is the archaeological mound of Tel Jericho, the site of the original Jericho settlement. Archaeologists have uncovered 23 layers from previous settlements in Jericho dating back to 9000 BC. One of the most fascinating finds is a Neolithic watchtower dated c. 8000 BC. The tour continues to Mount of Temptation where the devil tried to tempt Jesus to forsake God. On the mount a Greek Orthodox monastery seems to defy gravity clinging precariously to the cliffs. You’ll get to go up to the top of the mount by cable car and take in the stunning views. This tour includes Qaser el Yahud, a site on the Jordan River where John baptized Jesus. At Qaser el Yahud the Jordan River has been made accessible to visitors who want to be baptized here. This is also where the Israelites may have crossed the Jordan into the Promised Land.To end off a perfect day the tour takes you to the Dead Sea. Here you can float in the water that is 8.5 times saltier than the ocean; lather your skin with mineral-rich Dead Sea mud and soak up the sun on the beach.

On this Christian Jerusalem tour, you can follow in the footsteps of Jesus and visit sites where major Biblical events took place. The tour starts on the Mt. of Olives at the Church of the Ascension where Jesus ascended to heaven leaving an imprint of his foot in a slab of stone. A 4th-century chapel once stood here but today we see a Crusader-era chapel.The Jerusalem tour stops at the nearby Church of the Pater Noster. Here Christ taught his disciples the Lord’s Prayer. Plaques cover the walls bearing the Lord’s Prayer in multiple languages. We see the original place where Jesus taught his disciples.We descend the Mount of Olives taking in the views of a 3,000-year-old Jewish cemetery and the Old City across the Kidron Valley. We make a brief stop at the Dominus Flevit a teardrop-shaped chapel designed by Barluzzi to mark the site where Jesus looked out over Jerusalem and wept.The tour visits the magnificent Church of All Nations and the adjacent Garden of Gethsemane where Jesus prayed and was arrested on the eve of his crucifixion. Crossing the Kidron Valley the tour enters the Old City through the Lion’s Gate. We can see the Pools of Bethesda where Jesus cured a paralytic.The Christian Jerusalem tour visits the Church of St. Anne built above the site of Mary’s birth. We visit the Convent of the Sisters of Zion and see the Second Temple Era water cisterns and engraved Roman flagstones. Here Pilate judged and sentenced Jesus who took up his cross and walked through the jeering crowds along the Via Dolorosa to Calvary and his crucifixion. The Jerusalem tour retraces a part of Jesus' route along the Via Dolorosa through the Old City pausing at the 3d Station of the Cross. ThisJerusalem walking tour in the footsteps of Jesus will be a unique spiritual experience for every visitor!

The City of David Tour starts as we take in the view of Jerusalem fromMount Scopus. From here we can look down on an ancient Jewish cemetery and beyond the Old City walls to Temple Mount, the site of the Dome of the Rock. On the slope of Mount Scopus,we view the Garden of Gethsemane and the adjacent Church of All Nations with its stunning mosaic façade.The City of David Tour pauses at the Kidron Valley’s ancient Jewish burial tombs then we rejoin the bus and continue on to the Old City. The Jerusalem tour takes us through the Zion Gate into the Old City’s Armenian Quarter where the tour guide will tell us about this unique community and its history. From here the tour continues into the Jewish Quarter to see the excavated 1500-year-old Byzantine-era Cardo, once the main thoroughfare of Jerusalem. Later the Crusaders built shops along this route where modern stores now fill the historic spaces. The highlight of any Jewish Jerusalem tour is the Western Wall; the last surviving part of the Second Temple that was destroyed in 70AD. Jews come from across the globe to pray at the Western Wall (Kotel) and place a prayer note between the wall’s ancient stones.We leave the Old City via the Dung Gate and enter the City of David to tour underground Jerusalem. This excavated city is believed to have been the original settlement in Jerusalem dating back 3,000 years. Ingenious subterranean tunnels were carved out of the rock to bring water from the Gihon Spring to the Pool of Siloam at the City of David. We pause at the Spring of Gihon before concluding the tour.In case a visit to one or more of the Spanish synagogues is not possible, we will visit the Hurva Synagogue instead. Of all theCity of David tours available, this one is the absolute best!

The Judean Desert Jeep Tour heads off through the Judean Hills and into the sparse desert landscape referred to in the Bible as “wilderness.” On route we pass by the Inn of the Good Samaritan and pause at the sign indicated we are at sea level. Descending further Jericho can be seen in the distance. The tour reaches the shores of the Dead Sea at 430m below sea level. We pass Qumran, a site famed for the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls. The 2,000 year old parchments bearing the Old Testament were discovered in caves near Qumran.Here we change vehicles to a 4X4 jeep suitable for the desert terrain and the jeep safari tour really heats up! The tour sets out through the desert landscape scaling steep inclines and racing down into ravines, between hills and over rocky terrain. At the Cliffs of Dragot we’re treated to a panoramic view of the desert and the Dragot River below. Along the way your guide will point out unique desert plants and signs of animal life. Our jeep safari adventure takes us to the Murbaat Caves where artifacts were uncovered dating back thousands of years including 2nd century documents. Fascinating texts were discovered from the Second Jewish Revolt in 132-135AD including those written by Rabbi Shimon Bar Kochba leader of the revolt. The caves held an ancient set of tefilin proving that this Jewish tradition existed thousands of years ago.To cool down after out desert jeep safari our last stop is at the Dead Sea. Here we can relax and wash away the heat and dust of the desert. The Dead Sea is 8.5 times saltier than the ocean which makes the water thick like oily syrup that won’t let you sink! The high mineral content of the water and the dry, allergen-free air of the Dead Sea provide natural health benefits. It is also the perfect way to rejuvenate after our desert safari before heading back home.

This Christian tour to Galilee travels north along the Mediterranean coast then turns inland towards the forests, hills, and farmlands of Galilee. Here Jesus spent his ministry spreading the word of God among the people in rural villages. The tour reaches Magdala, the hometown of Mary Magdalene. Magdala was the site of a biblical-era fishing village and Second Temple-Era synagogue. During the excavation of the synagogue a coin dated 29 AD was uncovered proving that the synagogue existed during Jesus’ lifetime. Jesus may have preached in this synagogue during his ministry.We continue our Christian Galilee Tour traveling north along the shore to Ginosar where we visit the Beit Yigal Allon Museum. Here you can see a 1st-century fishing boat discovered buried in mud on the shore of the Sea of Galilee. The boat has been dated to 100 BC - 70 AD. Jesus would have visited Ginosar and even met the fishermen of the village. He may have sailed out onto the Sea of Galilee in a fishing boat just like this one.This Christian tour to Galilee takes us around the northern end of the Sea of Galilee past the Mount of Beatitudes. This is where Jesus gave the Sermon on the Mount to an audience of followers. Today a magnificent chapel tops the Mt. of Beatitudes. The church was constructed in 1939, designed by Antonio Barluzzi, and funded by Mussolini! The Church of the Beatitudes has an elegant dome, colonnaded cloisters, and eight sides representing the eight Beatitudes. The next religious site on our tour is Kafr Kanna. This small town is the traditional site of the wedding feast where Jesus turned water into wine (John 2:1-11). Today the Franciscan Wedding Church (1879) marks the site where the miracle took place. Cana is where Jesus later healed an official’s son. The tour draws to an end as we leave the green rolling hill of the north and head south returning you to your hotel in central Israel.

This Christmas Eve in Bethlehem tour culminates with Midnight Mass in Manger Square, Bethlehem however it starts with a tour in Jerusalem. We stand on the Mount of Olives looking out across the Kidron Valley to the Old City. From here we have a spectacular view of the city and the golden Dome of the Rock. We descend the Mount of Olives passing the Garden of Gethsemane where Jesus came to pray after the Last Supper and where he was arrested. The Christmas in Bethlehem tour enters the Old City of Jerusalem and we make our way to the massive Church of the Holy Sepulcher that encompasses the last Stations of the Cross – where Jesus died on the cross and was placed in a burial tomb. The Sepulchre was built in 326 AD to protect these holy sites. Here we see the Rock of Calvary, the Stone of Unction and Jesus’ burial tomb. The Christmas Eve tour leaves Jerusalem’s Old City and travels through modern-day Jerusalem past the Israel Museum, Shrine of the Book and the Knesset towards Bethlehem. We stop at the Hill of Evil Counsel and have panoramic views of Jerusalem at night. Our Christmas Eve tour continues on to Bethlehem.As we arrive in Bethlehem you can feel the Christmas spirit and the streets are decorated with lights and Christmas decorations. We stop for refreshments then arrive in Manger Square. As midnight approaches we enjoy Christmas Eve dinner not far from Manger Square. At Midnight the tour either enters the Church of Nativity for Mass or we see Midnight Mass screened on large screens in Manger Square. The Christmas Eve Midnight Mass in Manger Square is a moving experience and the atmosphere is magical. Following Midnight Mass the Christmas tour leaves Bethlehem and makes its way back to the tour’s original pick-up points. This unique Bethlehem tour is held only once a year on Christmas Eve and provides transportation, tour guide service, entrance fees and Christmas Eve dinner for one inclusive price.

Set off on an exhilarating journey from Jerusalem through the Judean Hills, passing the Inn of the Good Samaritan and stopping at the sea level marker. Descend further to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth, with its striking turquoise waters bordered by a white salt crust.Begin with Masada, a dramatic flat-topped rock rising 450 meters from the desert plains. Take a cable car to the plateau summit for stunning views of the Dead Sea. Masada's well-preserved ruins tell the story of Jewish zealots who, during the First Jewish–Roman War, chose death over capture, symbolizing Jewish resilience and independence.After exploring Masada, continue to the Dead Sea, passing Ein Gedi and Qumran, where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. If time allows, we may visit the Dead Sea Mineral Cosmetic factory for refreshments. Conclude your day by relaxing on the Dead Sea beach, soaking in its therapeutic saltwater, breathing the oxygen-rich air, and using the mineral-rich black mud as a skin mask. Don’t miss the chance to capture a moment floating in the Dead Sea!

This Jerusalem Full Day Tour with a breathtaking panoramic view of the city’s skyline from Mount Scopus, overlooking the golden Dome of the Rock, the ancient walls, and the blend of old and new Jerusalem.We then descend toward the Old City, entering through the Zion Gate, part of the magnificent 500-year-old Ottoman walls that encircle the ancient heart of Jerusalem. Strolling through the Armenian Quarter, we absorb the rich heritage of one of the city’s oldest Christian communities before continuing into the Jewish Quarter. Here, we see the Cardo, the main street of Byzantine Jerusalem, once bustling with shops and traders, now beautifully restored.Next, we arrive at the Western Wall (the Kotel), the holiest site in Judaism and a deeply moving place of prayer and reflection. From there, the tour follows the path of Via Dolorosa, the route Jesus is believed to have walked on the way to his crucifixion. Along the way, we pass the Stations of the Cross and reach the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, a magnificent 4th-century church that contains both the site of the crucifixion (Golgotha) and the tomb of Jesus.After exploring the church, we wander through the vibrant Old City bazaar, filled with colorful stalls, spices, souvenirs, and the sounds and scents of centuries-old trade.Leaving the Old City, we visit the Garden of Gethsemane, where ancient olive trees still grow, and the beautiful Church of All Nations, which stands beside it. From here, we enjoy a view across the Kidron Valley, dotted with monumental Jewish tombs that date back over two millennia.Finally, the tour passes by the Dormition Abbey on Mount Zion, the site traditionally associated with the Virgin Mary’s eternal rest, before visiting the Room of the Last Supper (Cenacle), where Jesus shared his final meal with his disciples, and King David’s Tomb, one of Jerusalem’s most significant spiritual landmarks.*On Mondays and Thursdays (except during Jewish holidays), the tour includes a visit to the Holocaust Museum instead of the Church of All Nations at the Garden of Gethsemane, King David’s Tomb, and the Hall of the Last Supper on Mount Zion.

Take this incredible day tour from Eilat to Petra which starts with a 2.5-hour drive through the majestic, pristine desert landscape, past ruby mountain sceneries, and stunning views on our way to Petra. The Nabataean culture carved the city of Petra right out of red-colored rock cliffs about 2,300 years ago. Nowadays, Petra is an untouched archaeological site; We pass obelisks and cave tombs, then enter Petra on foot or horseback via a long narrow gorge or “Siq” flanked by high rock cliffs. As we reach the end of the Siq, the incredible Petra Treasury looms up in front of us. The Treasury's facade is intricately decorated and carved with columns, statues, and a 3.35-meter-high urn. The tour takes you to tombs that will make you feel like Indiana Jones, and other structures all carved out of the rosy rock cliffs.See the Palace Tomb spires over the ridge, decent to the ancient Petra Theater, and make a wish at theDjinn Blocks.After 3-4 hours in Petra, we will head south toward Eilat, through the beautiful wilderness.Enjoy a Worry-Free Vacation: This Eilat to Petra day tour starts with a transfer from the Israeli resort city to the Arava border, where our representatives will meet you and assist with the visa requisition and border crossing. Our expert local tour guide will meet you on the Jordanian side of the border and your adventure will begin.Note that a 1-Day Tour of Petrawon't leave you with enough timeto fully explore this wonderful archeological park. This is why most travelers recommend a2-Day Tour to Petra, in order to see Ad Deyr - the iconicPetra Monastery up on the ridgeand visitQasr Al-Bint Templeandthe Great Temple of Petra.

On the Sunday before Easter, we join Christian pilgrims retracing the route Jesus took when he entered Jerusalem in c.33 AD as the Messiah. When Jesus entered the city for the Jewish Passover celebrations he was greeted by crowds hailing him as the Messiah; they waved palm branches and laid palms at his feet as he entered the city. This event is recorded in all four of the Gospels (Matthew 21:1-11; Mark 11:1-11; Luke 19:28-44 and John 12:12-19). Today the Palm Sunday event is recreated with Christians bearing palm branches, playing musical instruments, waving flags, singing and praying along the route. They are led by the Catholic Patriarchate, Custos of the Holy Land, Latin Patriarch and Greek Archbishop in their ceremonial robes. The procession is uplifting and the atmosphere is the one of joy and brotherhood with participants from around the world. We begin with a panoramic view over the Judean Desert and Jordan Valley, then stop at the Chapel of Bethpage where Jesus sent his disciples to find a donkey for him to ride into the city. We transfer to the Church of the Ascension on the Mount of Olives and join the procession continuing down the Mount of Olives to the Church of Dominus Flevit which was designed by Antonio Barluzzi and marks the place where Jesus wept before his arrest and crucifixion. We pass the Garden of Gethsemane and Basilica of the Agony going through the Kidron Valley to the Old City where we enter via the Lions Gate. The joyous procession continues into the Old City along the Via Dolorosa, the route Jesus took to his crucifixion. At several points, the procession pauses for blessings and to give praise to Christ. We stop at the Church of Saint Anne and Bethesda before leaving the Old City via the Muslim Quarter where we can enjoy some of the traditional market atmosphere. Transportation awaits us on the edge of the Old City for your return transfer.

In this private Jerusalem tour, you will see the highlights of one of the holiest cities on earth. Start the day with your personal guide from Mount Scopus or Mount of Olives with views across the Old City, Temple Mount, and the Golden Dome of the Rock.Take in the scenery from the same hilltop as Jesus would have done two thousand years ago. The next stop is at the Garden of Gethsemane, and the adjacent Church of All Nations. The church, with its stunning golden mosaic facade, holds the Rock of Agony, where Jesus is believed to have prayed on the night before his crucifixion. From the Church of Gethsemane, we drive past Mount Moriah and adjacent to Kidron Valley where you can look down and see monolithic ancient Jewish tombs.Driving alongside the 16th-century Old City walls, we enter the Old City via one of the ancient city gates. We walk through the Jewish Quarter until we reach the Western Wall (Wailing Wall or Kotel). Pause for a moment and soak up the atmosphere of this sacred Jewish site. The wall is the last remaining part of the Second Temple that stood on Temple Mount until it was destroyed by the Romans in 70 AD.Pass through the Muslim Quarter and get some leisure time at the one-of-a-kind Old City bazaar with its bright colors, vibrant characters, and unique shops to explore. From here, enter the Christian Quarter and walk along part of the Via Dolorosa, the route Jesus took to his crucifixion. See several of the Stations of the Cross that mark significant biblical moments on this route. The Via Dolorosa leads us to the Church of the Holy Sepulchere, a 4th-century basilica that encompasses Golgotha where Christ was crucified.After a lunch break, walk through the Jewish Quarter along the Byzantine Cardo, a colonnaded street that was the main thoroughfare In biblical times. Today it functions as a shopping alley with stores selling amazing local arts and crafts. Pass by the Armenian Quarter before exiting the Old City through the Zion Gate, and continue to Mount Zion, the site of the Tomb of King David and the Room of the Last Supper. Finish your day with a ride through the new neighborhoods of Jerusalem, and drive through the Valley of Gehenna.See the President’s Residence and the Valley of the Cross, then pass the Israel Museum, the Shrine of the Book, Israel's Parliament building (Knesset), and the Supreme Court.Note that while it was compiled by our experts, this itinerary is just one suggestion; you can customize your tour and see much more of Jerusalem’s magic: The City of David, the renowned Israel Museum, the Western Wall Tunnels, Jaffa Gate and more (see FAQ section for details)

Start your Masada and Dead Sea private tour by descending through the Jordan Valley with Jericho in the distance and imagine the Israelites crossing the Jordan River into the promised land. We pass the site where Jesus set his parable of the Good Samaritan, and the landscape changes dramatically as we descend through the desert hills. Spot Wadi Kelt on the horizon, and pause for a moment to appreciate the expansive panoramic view of the desert at the point where the descent drops below sea level.Drive along the northwestern shore of the Dead Sea to where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered in the Qumran caves. Today at Qumran, visitors can see excavated remains dating back to the Iron Age and learn about the Essenes, a mystical Jewish sect that lived here in the Second Temple period.Continuing parallel to the Dead Sea past the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve, an idyllic desert oasis. We reach Masada and visit the Masada Museum. This state-of-the-art museum brings to life the historic events that took place on the mount. Next, ascend to the summit of Masada via cable car, taking the opportunity to look down at the snake path used thousands of years ago by Romans. Explore the remains of the palace-fortress built by King Herod between 37 BC and 31 BC. And see the excavations including the ruins of a synagogue, a Roman bathhouse, and storehouses giving us a real insight into life on Masada.Following your descent from Masada we stop for lunch. Then the tour brings you to one of the Dead Sea’s top beaches. Here you can enjoy free time and the unique sensation of floating in the salinated water of the Dead Sea. Cover your body in mineral-rich Dead Sea mud, said to have maintained Cleopatra’s youthful looks. At the end of the tour, return to your hotel feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.Note that while it was compiled by our experts, this itinerary is just one suggestion; you can customize your tour and see many more of the area's great attractions: Visit Qasr al-Yahud,Hike the Havarim Stream or Havar Ha-lashon, explorethe sites of Jericho and more (see FAQ section for details).

The main attraction of Caesarea is the Caesarea National Park. The ancient Roman history of this site is recorded by Roman historian Josephus Flavius. On the edge of the national park is the massive Roman Theater. This classic Roman theater is perfectly preserved. It has the typical semi-circular shape with seating on staggered stone steps facing the stage and sea beyond. In Roman times the theater would have been important in entertaining the many foreigners and sailors who came into port. The theater was originally built under Emperor Vespasian and later expanded by King Herod.Herod’s Reef Palace Several pillars remain from the inner courtyard of King Herod’s Reef Palace. The opulent palace would have had two stories and was partly built on the marine reef jutting out onto the sea. Today parts of the palace can still be seen and parts are submerged beneath the sea. Experts differ in opinion as to whether this was Herod’s palace or a later construction. We can also see the remains of a swimming pool alongside a floor mosaic and ritual bath. Among the archaeological remains, there is a large hippodrome with reconstructed frescoes. Here the Romans would hold horse and chariot races. Throughout the park, there are large Roman columns, capitals, sculptures, gravestones and carved architectural features attesting to the importance and opulence of this former Roman city. Also at the site, we can see where the bathhouse, temples, storerooms and homes once stood. Of particular interest among the many archaeological findings was an inscription naming Pontius Pilate. This was the first recorded mention of Pilate’s name dated within Jesus's lifetime. Structures remaining from the Byzantine era include a villa with floor mosaics and the ruins of a Byzantine church. Remains dating back to the Crusader era include the reconstructed Crusader Gate, a large moat that encircled the Crusader fortress, a high defensive wall and arched entranceways.Want to visit Caesarea National Park? Join ourCaesarea, Acre and Rosh Hanikra Tour.

Masada is a dramatic rock outcrop rising out of the flat landscape of the Judean Desert in southern Israel. The rock mesa overlooks the Dead Sea just 20km away and is about 400m high with a flat rock plateau summit covering about 500m in an area with steep cliffs on every side. This isolated clifftop holds a special place in the region’s history and Jewish history because of two major events. Masada’s place in history and the invaluable archeological finds made here have earned it UNESCO World Heritage status.Herod’s Palace Fortress at Masada Between 37 BC and 31 BC Herod the Great (73 BC-4 BC), the Rome-appointed King of Judea had a massive palace-fortress built on the top of this high, remote outcrop. He had the complex built as a retreat and refuge for himself in the event of a revolt. This incredible complex of structures included massive storerooms, guardhouses, water cisterns, the commandant’s office, watchtowers, a bathhouse, and elaborate palaces for the king.The Northern Palace is particularly impressive, built on the edge of the plateau on three descending terraces. The Western Palace is the largest structure on the summit covering 3700m². Today we can still see parts of the ancient mosaics and murals that decorated the bathhouse and palaces. Thanks to the remote location and dry climate much of the original fortress has survived.The Siege of MasadaThe second important event on Masada took place during the First Jewish-Roman War (66 BC-73 AD). A group of Jewish rebels desperate to preserve their freedom entrenched themselves on Masada’s plateau summit. They inhabited what remained of Herod’s abandoned fortress and took advantage of the excellent fortifications and inaccessible location to protect them from the Romans. The Jews of Masada became the last stronghold against the Romans. The Romans held Masada under siege and used all of their military strength to try and scale the cliffs.In the end, the Romans built an earthen ramp on the western flank of Masada so that they could bring their battering rams and military machines closer to the fortified walls that surrounded the summit.Once they eventually managed to breach the fortified walls the Romans found that all the 960 Jews had taken their own lives rather than be captured, tortured, enslaved, or forced to forsake their religion. Masada became a symbol of heroism, martyrdom, selfless courage, Jewish determination, and commitment to the freedom of the Jewish nation.Visiting MasadaToday visitors can enjoy a visitor center at the base of Masada where there is a small museum, food court, and souvenir store. From there you can take a cable car to the summit. Alternatively, it is possible to hike the “Snake Path” - a twisting and turning path up the face of Masada. At the top of Masada, visitors can tour the many excavated structures of Herod’s fortress and enjoy the breathtaking views across the desert and the Dead Sea.Want to see the amazing view from Masada? Join ourMasada and Dead Sea Tour.

Kalia Beach is located at the southernmost end of the Dead Sea’s eastern shore. The beach has been made easily accessible with stairs, ramps and walkways. There are useful facilities to make your stay as enjoyable as possible.Kalia Beach – an Eco-Friendly BeachKalia is an eco-friendly beach where environmental awareness is actively encouraged. This is done by providing special beach ashtrays; recycle bins; solar energy is used for heating the showers and glass bottled drinks are sold at the kiosk and visitors are encouraged to return them for a deposit when they have finished.Kalia Beach FacilitiesThere is an entrance fee of 54 ILS for Kalia Beach but this means you have the convenience of the facilities. The entrance fee allows you free use of the showers, toilets, WiFi, beach chairs, and umbrellas. There is a lifeguard on duty and the beach is accessible to those with physical challenges. There are lockers where you can store your belongings for about 15 ILS and towels to rent. Kalia Beach has the Lowest Bar in the World (at the lowest point on Earth). The bar serves food and drinks on the water’s edge. For a more substantial meal, there is a restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating. At the beach, there is a gift shop and cosmetics center that sells Dead Sea products, useful beach items, and souvenirs. There is Dead Sea mud available to smother over your skin. The mud is a natural skin mask that feeds your skin vital minerals and extracts toxins. It is possible to camp on Kalia Beach for approximately 85 ILS per person per 24 hours.If arriving with an organized tour your entrance will be included in your tour price and you will be taken all the way to the entrance. If arriving by public transport you can call Kalia Beach and arrange for a shuttle to pick you up from the public bus stop or you could walk 10 minutes to the beach. Taking a taxi from Jerusalem or Tel Aviv would be very expensive. The beach is open daily from 8:00 to 19:00 (18:00 in winter) except for Yom Kippur. Want to float in the lowest place on earth? Join our Dead Sea Tour.

The Garden of Gethsemane is planted at the foot of the Mount of Olives facing the Kidron Valley and Jerusalem’s Old City walls. The name of the garden is Hebrew for “oil press” and the garden is planted with olive trees, some dating back hundreds of years. The trees are still harvested for their olives each year just as they were in biblical times. Some of the olive trees you can see today in the Garden of Gethsemane are more than 900 years old. Archaeologists and botanists have studied the garden’s olive trees and concluded that they may have been here when Jesus visited the garden. 2000 years ago the garden would have been an olive grove with an olive press nearby.The Garden of Gethsemane in the BibleIn the Gospel of John, we read of how Jesus came here to pray in the Garden of Gethsemane with his disciples after the Last Supper. It was here that Jesus was betrayed by Judas and arrested by the Romans. In the garden, Jesus agonized over the fate he knew awaited him. For this reason, it is also called the site of the Agony in the Garden or the Agony of Christ. Jesus would have known the garden well. It lies on the natural route between theTemple Mountand the village of Bethany and he would have often retreated to this olive grove in prayer and contemplation.The Bible tells us that Jesus was familiar with the garden which made it easy for Judas to seek him out and direct the Romans to arrest him. “…a place named Gethsemane and he (Jesus) said to his disciples, stay here while I pray…” (Gospel of Matthew). “Jesus’ anguish at Gethsemane was so deep that his sweat was as drops of blood falling to the ground.” (Gospel of Luke) The Garden of Gethsemane is identified as the site where Christ went with his disciples on the eve of the Last Supper to pray before his arrest and subsequent crucifixion. Although the garden is best known as the place where Jesus prayed on the eve of his arrest it is also the site of Mary’s dormition and assumption. The Eastern Orthodox Church teaches that the Virgin Mary died in the Garden of Gethsemane. Mary’s Tomb is within a 12th-century church nearby. The church bears beautiful murals which tell of Mary’s death and burial by the disciples.As early as 333AD Christian pilgrims visited the Garden of Gethsemane. The travel journal of a 4th-century pilgrim of Bordeaux describes Jerusalem and the Garden of Gethsemane as being at the foot of the Mount of Olives. The Church of All Nations is further up the mount and there is another olive grove garden next to the church.This church was constructed in the 1920s and features precious floor-to-ceiling mosaics depicting biblical scenes from the Garden of Gethsemane including Jesus praying and Judas’ betrayal of Jesus. There are alternate sites where Jesus might have prayed on the night of his arrest.Where is Gethsemane located?Next to the Church of All Nations, there is a garden where the “Rock of the Agony” is located and this is a possible location of the Garden of Gethsemane. The Eastern Orthodox Church holds that the garden was near the Tomb of Mary; the Greek Orthodox Church believes it was further east and the Russian Orthodox consider the orchard next to the Church of Maria Magdalene to be the true Garden of Gethsemane.The Grotto of GethsemaneBy the 4th century AD, the garden had become a pilgrimage site, and although alternate sites have been proposed, the present site we call the Garden of Gethsemane fits the biblical description. Within the garden, you can see the Grotto of Gethsemane (also called the Cave of the Olive Press) where Jesus and his disciples may have slept. The 190m² cave has not altered since Jesus spent time here. You can still see where a hole in the wall held a wooden beam used in the process of pressing olives. Today the grotto is used as a chapel. Nearby is the Tomb of Mary where the Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus is said to have been buried.The Church of All NationsOn the edge of the garden stands the Church of All Nations (The Basilica of the Agony) built around the rock where Jesus prayed on that fateful night. The church was designed by Antonio Barluzzi and built in 1924 with funds from Christian communities across the globe – hence the name. The church is recognizable by its stunning gold and colored tympanum mosaic above the entrance depicting Jesus, his followers, and disciples. Part of an earlier Byzantine church that stood here in the 4th century has been incorporated into the structure of the church. In the church, you can see part of the Byzantine mosaic floor and the rock where Jesus prayed.The Garden of Gethsemane is a must-see site for Christian visitors; even visiting Popes have spent time in the garden and planted olive trees. On Holy Thursday during Passion Week pilgrims gather to pray in the Garden of Olives and led by the Franciscan Custos they make their way in a procession to the Church of Saint Peter in Gallicantu onMount Zion where Jesus spent the night imprisoned after his arrest. To explore more of Jerusalem and visit the Garden of Gethsemane, Join our Jerusalem Old City Tour.

The Cardo Maximus was the name given to the north-south thoroughfare of Roman and Byzantine cities. “Cardo” means heart and the Cardo ran through the “heart” of the city. In the 130s AD, Hadrian had Jerusalem rebuilt and like other Roman cities, Jerusalem’s street plan included a Cardo. It was a paved, 22.5 meter-wide road running southward from the Damascus Gate. Later during the Byzantine era in the 6th century AD, Emperor Justinian had the Jerusalem Cardo extended taking it further south all the way to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Zion Gate. The street may have been used for ceremonial processions from theChurch of the Holy Sepulchre. For the entire length of the Cardo, the road was flanked with colonnades, covered walkways and a shaded arcade.Today visitors to the Old City of Jerusalem can wander through theJewish Quarter and look down on the southern part of the excavated Cardo. You can see the tall, thick columns, ornate capitals, the arcade where merchants would have stood, and the large flagstones that paved the Cardo. 500 years after the original Cardo was constructed the Crusaders built a bazaar along part of the road. Today these Crusader-era stores have been restored and once again serve their original function. The shopping section of the Cardo is beneath a beautiful vaulted ceiling and the modern stores are housed in the ancient Crusader shops that line the Cardo. The stores sell locally made jewelry, religious artifacts, artwork, and other merchandise. Other sections of the Cardo are no longer visible having been covered by new structures over the years.The famous Madaba Map, a floor mosaic found in a 6th-century Byzantine church in Jordan depicts the Holy Land with the Cardo as its main artery. The Madaba Map is the oldest surviving cartographic depiction of Jerusalem. Visitors to the Cardo in Jerusalem can see a replica of the Madaba Map. Visitors can also see a large mural painting by students of the French school of art Creation de la Cite. The mural depicts the Cardo as it would have been 1500 years ago, a bustling street with vendors displaying their wares; a covered walkway; animals, and colorful characters.Join the Jerusalem Old City tour to visit the Jewish quarter and see the Cardo.

The Jewish Quarter is one of the four sections within Jerusalem’s Old City walls. The 0.1km² area has been home to Jews since 800 BC and today continues to be inhabited by about 2,000 Jewish residents. The Quarter can be entered via the Dung Gate and is bordered by the Armenian Quarter, the Street of Chains and Temple Mount. The Jewish Quarter is a lively residential neighborhood and tourist attraction with restaurants, stores, hotels, hostels and museums. There are also many Yeshivot (schools for Jewish religious study) and synagogues. Like the rest of Jerusalem, the Quarter radiates light off the stone buildings and stone-paved lanes.When the Jordanians took the Old City in 1948 many of the ancient buildings were destroyed. Since 1967 when Israel reclaimed the Old City reconstruction and excavation have been ongoing. Almost the entire Quarter has some kind of archaeological treasure beneath it. In fact, there are two or three levels buried beneath the surface and most of the buildings have documented excavation sites in the basements!Jewish Quarter LandmarksAmong the archaeological remains, there is Hezekiah’s Broad Wall, a 7-meter wide wall that formed part of the ramparts in the First Temple Period (957 BC-587 BC). A Herodian complex of mansions from the Second Temple Period (530 BC-70 AD) has been uncovered five meters below ground level. Visitors can see the remains of homes that belonged to the rich and powerful of that period. The Hurva Synagogue was originally built in the 1700s but was repeatedly destroyed over the years. In the 2000s the Hurva Synagogue was restored to the way it appeared before its last destruction in 1948. A complex of four Sepharadi Synagogues has also been rebuilt.Additional attractions in the Jewish Quarter include the Byzantine Cardo, once the main street that ran through the city as early as 130 AD. This thoroughfare was flanked by columns supporting covered walkways. You can see the excavated Cardo and even shop in the stores that now fill the Cardo bazaar built in the 12th century by the Crusaders. Other Jewish Quarter attractions include the remains of the Byzantine Nea Church, a large structure that stood at the southern end of the Cardo.The Burnt House is a Jewish Quarter museum in an excavated Second Temple Period house. Batei Mahse is a 19th-century residential compound originally built for poor Jewish families to live rent-free. At Alone on the Ramparts Museum, you can see a photographic exhibition depicting the events of the Jordanian attack and capture of the Old City in 1948.The Archaeological Park Davidson CenterThe Israelite Tower was part of a defense system devised by the Jews during the First Temple Period. The Archaeological Park Davidson Center holds a display of artifacts and architectural elements found in excavations within the Old City. Some of the earliest findings date back to the 10th century BC and include a tower, gatehouse and city walls. At the Davidson Center visitors can go back in time to the Second Temple Period through a 3D model of Temple Mount.The Western WallThe main attraction of the Jewish Quarter is undoubtedly the Wailing Wall (also known as the Western Wall and the Kotel). The Wall is the only surviving part of the original Second Temple. As the most revered Jewish site in the world Jews (and gentiles) come from all corners of the Earth to pray at the wall and place a prayer note between the ancient stones. The section of the wall that opens up to an expansive plaza is actually only a small section of the original Temple’s outer retaining walls. Below ground, even more of the Kotel has been excavated and it is possible to tour these subterranean sections through the Western Wall Tunnels.Want to explore the old city quarters? Join the Jerusalem Old and New Tour and get a chance to visit inside the old city walls.

Plan Your VisitOpen Times:-The Old City and the Western Wall are open 24/7.Prices:Free! There is an entrance fee for the Western Wall Tunnels.Average Visit Duration:30-60 minutes. A guidedOld City touror Jewish Jerusalem tour, will take you to the Western Wall.Getting There:The closest entrance to the Western Wall is the Dung Gate.Popular Times:Jews gather to pray at the Western Wall at all times of the day and night, and you’re not likely to have it all to yourself at any time. You’ll find Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays particularly crowded. And if you’re interested in observing a Jewish service, visit the Kotel just before sunset.Special Events:During any of the Jewish holidays, on Friday nights, and Saturday mornings, you will find a special atmosphere at the Kotel.Pro Tip:Visit on a Monday or Thursday to see one of the Bar Mitzvah ceremonies. The symbolic importance of the Wall to Jews has made it a popular place for various ceremonies.Western Wall Tours: Many Jerusalem tours will include a visit to the Western Wall. You could join a Jewish tour of Jerusalem or a tour of the Old City.Jerusalem's Old City is home to the most sacred Jewish site in the world, the Western Wall, also known as the Wailing Wall and the Kotel. This important religious, and historic site is among the top attractions of Jerusalem. Virtually every Jerusalem tour includes a stop at the Kotel. The Western Wall in the eveningAlthough it is a Jewish landmark, the Western Wall is open to people of all faiths who are willing to respect the traditions of the site. Pro Tip: It is best to visit the Kotel dressed in modest attire such as a dress or pants that cover your knees, and a top that does not reveal too much of your shoulders or cleavage. Men will find paper skull caps provided but they should also avoid visiting the Kotel in shorts, vests, or tank tops.Why is the Western Wall so Special?According to historical records, religious scriptures, and Jewish tradition, theTemple Mount was the site of several biblical events and the place where the First and Second Temples once stood.The Western Wall is the last remnant of the Second Temple which was destroyed in 70AD. If the Temple still stood on Temple Mount, Jews would worship there, and it would be the most sacred Jewish site in the world. But as the Temple did not survive, all Jews have left is the one remaining wall, the Western Wall.The Western Wall in all of its gloryIn the Jewish Talmud, it is written that the Temple on the Temple Mount held the Foundation Stone, where the world was created. Jewish tradition holds that the Temple Mount was where Abraham bound Isaac. Across the globe, Jews face the Temple Mount when they pray. All of these factors make the Temple's only surviving wall a sacred site. The Western Wall performs the important function of keeping the memory of the Holy Temple alive. Pro Tip: The best place to get a photo of the Western Wall is from the top of the stairs that lead up to the Jewish Quarter. Here You can get a shot with the Dome of the Rock above the wall.What to Expect at the Western WallVisitors approach the Western Wall from the Western Wall Plaza, a large open space facing the wall. The wall itself was built with massive blocks of limestone. It is about 50 meters long and reaches a height of 19 meters above ground with 28 layers (courses) of stone from various historic periods. The lower rows of stone date back to the original Second Temple.Religious Jews praying at the Western WallExpect to see throngs of people at the Kotel. You can go right up to the wall and touch it. You can even place a prayer note in the cracks between the large stones.Pro Tip: Take a piece of paper and a pen with you. When you leave the wall, walk backward for a few steps before turning your back on the wall. This is a custom to show respect for the site.A partition divides the wall into two sections, one for women and one for men. This is because Jewish tradition holds that members of the same sex are prohibited from praying together.Pro Tip: Recently, a mixed prayer area was approved by Robinson’s Arch close to the plaza, where men and women can pray together. There has been a lot of controversy over this area, so depending on the political atmosphere this place may or may not be operating when you visit.The section of the wall that you see above ground is not all that remains of the Western Wall. Beneath ground level, the wall continues, and archaeologists have excavated sections of it that can be seen in the Western Wall Tunnels.History of the Western WallKing Solomon built the First Holy Temple on Temple Mount (also called Mount Moriah) in 957 BC and it stood until 587/586 BC. The Second Temple was built in its place in 516 BC. The temple stood until it was destroyed by the Romans in 70 AD. The temple held the Holy of Holies, the inner sanctum of God’s Tabernacle, and the place where, according to rabbinical law, a divine presence still presides. It was here that the Arc of the Covenant was kept.A model of the Jerusalem Great Temple (Image source: Berthold Werner)The only part of the temple to survive the Roman destruction of the Second Temple in 70 AD was part of the retaining wall, on the mount’s western slope. The retaining walls had been added by King Herod in 20BC when he expanded the temple. As the only part of the temple that could still be identified it was natural that Jews would consider it sacred and the nearest thing they had to the actual temple.Later during the Byzantine Era Jews were forbidden from entering Jerusalem so they would pray on the Mount of Olives, overlooking the Temple Mount. After the Muslim conquest in the 7th century they were once again permitted to enter the city and approach the only remaining part of their temple, the western retaining wall.In the centuries that passed Jews were periodically able to enter Jerusalem and pray at the Western Wall and there were other times when they were forbidden from entering the holy city. The Ottomans took over Jerusalem in the 16th century and the leader Suleiman the Magnificent recognized the right of the Jews to pray at the Western Wall. He had an area of about 4 meters wide and 28 meters long cleared alongside the wall giving the Jews ease of access to the wall.The Western Wall in 1870 (Image source: Félix Bonfils)From 1917 to 1967 the British controlled Jerusalem. They agreed to uphold the existing status quo at religious sites but then in 1947, the British closed off access to the wall together, and the Old City was held by Arab militias. During the War of Independence in 1948 Jordan gained control of the Old City, and for the next 19 years, Jews could not pray at the Western Wall.In 1967 Jerusalem was liberated during the Six Day War, and the Western Wall fell under Israeli jurisdiction. There is dramatic historic film footage of the moment when Israeli troops reached the Western Wall for the first time. The then-Defence Minister Moshe Dayan placed a note with a prayer for peace on the wall. Perhaps this is where the tradition comes from, but it could also be from the Kabbalistic teaching that says all prayers ascend to heaven from the Temple Mount.Israeli Paratroopers during the liberation of the Old City, under the Western WallThere was no Western Wall Plaza at the time, just a narrow alleyway that stretched alongside the Kotel in the Muslim Mughrabi neighborhood. After the war, the area was cleared (which became a controversial issue) and the open area in front of the Kotel was expanded to cover 56 meters.What to See and Do at the Western WallApproach the Kotel and go right up to the wall. You can simply stand there soaking up the spiritual atmosphere, or you could pray or place a prayer note in between the stones. Pro Tip: There are free, clean public toilets on the left-hand side of the Western Wall Plaza.The Part of the Western Wall that Few People SeeIn addition to the famous exposed section of the Western Wall, two other smaller parts of the Western Wall can be seen - the Southern Section of the Western Wall and theSmall Western Wall (HaKotel HaKatan) as well as the subterranean section in the Western Wall Tunnels.Southern Section of the Western WallDuring the Second Temple Era, a shopping street ran alongside the wall that we know today as the Kotel. But during the temple’s destruction, stones and rubble were thrown down onto the street, hiding it from view for centuries. Since 1967, excavation of the area has revealed several treasures, including parts of the southern Temple Mount retaining wall. It is now preserved in the Southern Wall Archaeological Park adjacent to the Dung Gate.Pro Tip: Visit the Davidson Center, which is part of the park, and has multimedia presentations and explanations about the site's history.Small Western WallAbout 170 meters north of the Western Wall Plaza, a narrow alleyway near the Iron Gate that leads to Temple Mount, is the Small Western Wall. It is a continuation of the famous Western Wall and stretches for about 17.7 meters. The space in front of this small section of wall is just 4.2 meters wide. It is directly opposite where the Holy of Holies would have been if the temple was still standing on Temple Mount.Pro Tip: If you want a quiet moment at the Kotel, then the Small Western Wall is probably your best bet.Western Wall TunnelsAnother way to get a deeper understanding of Kotel and see it from a unique viewpoint is to tour the Western Wall Tunnels. The entrance is to the left of the Kotel and leads you down, below ground where you can see excavated remnants of the ancient city and a course of stones belonging to the Western Wall. These stones are the largest stones on the wall and the closest to the sacred site on Temple Mount. The Western Wall Tunnels are also home to the Chain of Generations Center.

Plan Your VisitOpen Times: The Old City and Via Dolorosa are open 24/7. Specific chapels and churches along the way have their own open hours: Church of the Holy Sepulchre 05:00-20:00 April-September and 05:00-19:00 October-March.1st Station of the Cross Madrasa al-Omariya school after 14:00.2nd Station of the Cross, Terra Sancta Museum Monday-Saturday 09:00-noon.2nd Station, Church of the Condemnation 08:00-18:00Prices: Free!Average Visit Duration: 30-90 minutes.Popular Times: The Old City never but you should try to visit during daylight hours when the chapels, stalls, and churches are open. Some places may be closed on Friday afternoon and Saturday.Special Events: Every Friday at 15:00 Franciscan friars lead a procession along the Via Dolorosa starting from the first station. On Good Friday the procession is particularly impressive with chanting, prayer, and a multitude of devoted Christians bearing crosses and holding palm fronds.Via Dolorosa Tours: Many Jerusalem tours will take you there;Join a tour of the Old City or a Christian tour of Jerusalem to see the Via Dolorosa. There are also special tours during Easter that take you along the procession route.Perhaps the most famous walk through the Old City of Jerusalem is along the Via Dolorosa, the Way of the Cross, or the Way of Suffering - in the footsteps of Jesus. This route stretches for 600 meters and takes you along several lanes, through street markets, past interesting eateries, and souvenir stores. Walking down Via DolorosaBut apart from being an interesting way to see the Old City, the Via Dolorosa has deep religious and historic significance. According to tradition, this is the route Jesus took bearing his cross from his trial to his crucifixion at Calvary.Not only will you be retracing Christ’s steps, and seeing the lanes of the Old City, but you can also discover hidden gems along the way. Most people don’t know that the Via Dolorosa has several fascinating and unique chapels tucked away behind unassuming doors in the stone walls that flank the streets. And at the end of the Via Dolorosa, you’ll reach the iconic Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the most sacred Christian site in the world.Where is the Via Dolorosa and How Do You Get to It?There are many Christian holy sites in Israel, and Via Dolorosa goes through several of them. It run through the Muslim Quarter and Christian Quarter of Jerusalem’s Old City. It is not one street, but rather a route that travels along several streets. The walled city has several gates where you can enter and eventually find the Via Dolorosa. But the closest gate to the start of the Via Dolorosa is Lions Gate. Stations 1-7 are in the Muslim Quarter, and the rest are in the Christian Quarter.Church of the Holy SepulchreVarious religious bodies, archaeologists, and experts disagree about the exact starting point of the route. Some biblical scholars believe that the judgment of Jesus most likely took place outside the Antonia Palace, which no longer exists, and where the Umariya School now stands. Others suggest that it took place at Herod’s Palace near the Tower of David. It is best to look at the Via Dolorosa as an approximation of Jesus’ route and as a tradition rather than a precise map of his movements.History of the Via DolorosaVia Dolorosa is not mentioned by name in the Bible but the First Testament does describe Jesus bearing his cross from his judgment before Pontius Pilot to the site of his crucifixion. The Bible describes several moments where Jesus stopped or fell as he made his way to Calvary and these moments are commemorated by the Stations of the Cross along the Via Dolorosa. But not all the stations are mentioned in the Bible. Several of the stations (3, 4, 6, 7, 9,13) are based on tradition rather than events described in the Bible. Christian pilgrims first started following the Via Dolorosa in the Byzantine Era. It became part of the Holy Thursday procession that started on the Mount of Olives, entered the city, and proceeded to the Holy Sepulchre. The route altered several times over the next few centuries as people argued about where exactly the route started. From 1350 to 1517 Franciscan friars conducted tours of the Via Dolorosa, but in the reverse direction, starting at the Holy Sepulcher and ending at Pilate’s house.Via Dolorosa in 1950In 1517 they began walking the route in the same direction as Jesus had done. Over the next few years, the church published various guides for pilgrims which expanded on the biblical text that described Jesus’ walk to Calvary. Only then were Stations of the Cross commemorated, and the version of the route we see today was slowly formed, although there were a number of opinions about what route exactly Christ followed.What to See on the Via DolorosaThere are 14 Stations of the Cross where Jesus paused or stopped as he walked along the Via Dolorosa to Calvary. Nine stations are on the Via Dolorosa and the last five are inside the Holy Sepulchre Church. The Stations of the Cross on the Via Dolorosa are marked by a round metal plaque attached to the wall bearing the number of the station in Roman numerals. On the ground is a semi-circle of paving stones.1st Station of the Cross - Sanctuary of the Condemnation of JesusLocated about 300m from Lions Gate, It is located inside the Madrasa al-Omariya school. Entrance to the school is only possible after 14:00, or on Friday or Saturday when the children are not at school. It is best to visit between 15:00 and 17:00. (Matthew 27, 11-14)2nd Station of the Cross - Jesus takes up the crossLocated across from the first station, in the Monastery of Flagellation. Pro Tip: You can enter the monastery from 08:00-18:00 or 17:00 in winter. Enter the Chapel of the Flagellation which commemorates where the Roman guards put a crown of thorns on Jesus’ head and mocked him as the king of the Jews. Across the courtyard of the monastery compound is the Chapel of the Imposition of the Cross. It is a modern chapel built on the remains of an earlier 11th-century church. The monastery is also home to the Terra Sancta Museum where there is a multimedia show about the Via Dolorosa and a display of archaeological findings. The museum is open Monday to Saturday 09:00-noon, and there is a small entrance fee. (Matthew 27. 27-30)3rd Station of the Cross - Jesus fell for the first time under the weight of the crossAfter making a sharp left onto Al-Wad Street you’ll come to the third station. This is the site of the Polish Biblical Archaeological Museum. You can enter the small Armenian church that marks this station. Above the entrance is a stone relief depicting the scene.Pro Tip:Opposite the third station is one of the few public toilets you’ll find along the route.Stations of the Cross number 3 and 4 in the Jerusalem Armenian Quarter4th Station of the Cross - Mary meets JesusAdjacent to the third station is the place where Jesus met his mother. (Until 2008 this station was commemorated about 25 meters further down the street). See the Armenian Catholic Church of Our Lady of the Spam. Pro Tip: This church is not always open but if it is you can enter and see a Byzantine mosaic with two footprints commemorating where Mary may have stood.5th Station of the Cross - Simon of Cyrene is forced to help Jesus carry the crossThe Romans picked someone out of the crowd, Simon of Cyrene, and ordered him to help Jesus who was by now beaten, tired, and near collapsing. On the wall is a handprint believed to be where Jesus leaned against the wall. The building is not 2000 years old but the piece of stone bearing the handprint is said to be from the original building. The Franciscan Chapel of Simon of Cyrene lies behind the walls, housed in the first Franciscan house in Jerusalem dating back to 1229. (Mark 13:21/Luke 23:26)6th Station of the Cross - Veronica wiped Jesus’ faceVeronica was one of Jesus’ followers, and she saw Jesus going past her house. His face was dirty and bleeding. She came out of her house and wiped his face with a piece of cloth. After he had moved on she discovered that an impression of his face had been left on the cloth. The cloth turned out to have miraculous properties and could cure anyone who touched it. Today it is in the Vatican. The Greek Catholic (Melkite) Church of Saint Veronica stands at this station. A piece of pillar is embedded in the wall of a house that bridges the street.7th Station of the Cross - Jesus fell for the second timeThe chapel that marks this station is usually closed but try the door, and you might get lucky. Inside is an original column from the ancient Roman Cardo Mazimus (the main street) that once ran through Hadrian’s city called Aelia Capitolina. A 13th-century tradition holds that this was where Jesus left the city walls on his way to Calvary that would have stood outside the city at that time.8th Station of the Cross - Here the women of Jerusalem wept for JesusIn Jesus’ lifetime, this spot would have been outside the city walls. As you approach this station you’ll pass the German hospice of Saint John where you can see a Maltese cross on the wall, and you’ll pass the Greek Convent of Saint Charalambos where the wall bears a Latin cross and the words “Jesus Christ conquers” in Greek. (Luke 23:27-31)9th Station of the Cross - Jesus fell for the third timeTo get to the ninth station you need to go back from the eighth station and turn right on to Souq Khan al-Zeit. After about 100 meters on your right will be a flight of stone steps. At the top of the steps turn left along a winding lane and after about 80 meters you’ll find a Roman pillar encased in the wall of the Coptic Patriarchate. (don’t worry there are clear signs and crowds of tourists all going in the same direction). The area is a Coptic compound and is on the roof of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. You will also see where a community of Ethiopian Christians has taken up residence on the rooftop. Pro Tip: At the end of the street to the right is an entrance that will lead you down to the Helene Cistern. It is a real hidden gem, seeped in legends. From here there is a passageway to the courtyard in front of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.Stations of the Cross inside the Church of the Holy SepulchreThe Stations of the Cross that are inside the church are not marked by plaques but they include the 10th station where Jesus was undressed; the 11th station where Jesus was placed on the cross; the 12th station where Jesus died on the cross; the 13th station where Jewsis was taken down off the cross, and the 14th station where he was placed in the tomb.

Baptism is a Christian ritual practice that is imbued with religious meaning and emotional significance. Essentially, for many Christians, it is about making a public profession of faith in Jesus and a testament to being born again. It is also about the individual’s willingness to identify with Jesus’s life, death, burial, and resurrection and a way of strengthening their belief system. Some see it as real spiritual salvation.Many non-Christians assume that baptism is a ceremony carried out only on infants, in a church, with a minister/priest, godparents, and close family and friends in attendance. But baptism can be carried out on an individual of any age. This kind of baptism consists of full body immersion in water, after salvation, which also testifies to obedience to God. For many believers, it is not just an act of redemption but also spiritual growth.Baptism Procedures and Opportunities in IsraelAs well as strengthening faith, baptism is a way of joining an individual to his or her wider community - and being baptized is a constant reminder to Christians that they are not alone but part of a wider family - a family of God. Furthermore, the last command that Jesus gave to his disciples was “make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19).Baptism group at the Yardenit Baptismal SiteToday, Christians from all over the world who are looking to be baptised, or rebaptised, journey to Israel to do so. Baptism in Israel - in the Jordan River - is a once-in-a-lifetime experience they can enjoy, following in the footsteps of Jesus who, himself, was baptised in the Jordan River by John, in ancient Israel.In this article, we are going to look at the two major baptismal sites in Israel where Christian pilgrims can journey, to undergo this sacred ritual, whether as individuals or within the framework of an organised tour. Whether you choose to be baptised at Yardenit, next to the Sea of Galilee and close to Nazareth, or in Qasr al-Yahud, nearer to Jericho and Jerusalem, let’s take a look at some of the practical information needed to make the day go as easily and happily as possible for you.Baptism at Yardenit1. Yardenit Baptismal Site in the GalileeSituated on the southern shore of the Sea of Galilee, close to Tiberias, and directly on the Jordan River, Yardenit is the official site for baptism in Israel and is famous for being the site at which Jesus was baptised by John. Each year, it receives over half a million visitors, some of whom choose to undergo a bapt where, literally, they believe their sins will be ‘washed away.’The Jordan River, of course, is a religious site mentioned on many occasions, both in the Hebrew and Christian Bibles - Genesis, Joshua, Kings and all four Gospels. Most Christians who visit here, whether to enjoy the views or to undertake the ritual, regard it as a spiritual highlight of their trip to the Holy Land.The site itself is beautiful - surrounded by Eucalyptus trees and lovely flora and fauna. If you are lucky, you may get a glimpse of egrets and spur-winged plover birds or even an otter swimming in the water. The lovely views of the Yardenit Baptismal SiteYardenit has modern and well-maintained facilities, including toilets and dressing rooms, which lead directly to the stairwell running down to the river. Visitors can also enjoy meals at the restaurant and buy keepsakes from their visit at the well-stocked gift shop, including bottles of holy water, olive wood crucifixes and mineral mud products.If you wish to organise your baptism within the framework of theNazareth and Galilee tourwe will be delighted to help, although please note that our company does not participate directly. If you wish to be baptised using a priest, then please contact Yardenit directly (see below) to make the necessary preparations.The Wall sign at the Yardenit Baptismal SiteOnce you have been given a date by Yardenit, they will send you the priest's contact details and you can call him directly. Please notify your guide of the arrangements you have made with the Priest. Please note that there is a fee for buying or renting the white baptismal clothes. As a rule of thumb, you will need 60-90 minutes for the entire procedure, and this means you will have no problem catching up with your tour group.Yardenit Practical InformationYardenit is open seven days a week, except for the Jewish holiday of Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement). From Saturday to Thursday, the site is open from 08.00 - 18.00. On Fridays and on the eve of Jewish holidays, the site is open from 08.00 - 13.00. Baptisms can take place only up to an hour before closing time. General enquiries can be made by emailing info@yardenit.com or telephoning (972) 4 675-9111 (Yardenit is two hours ahead of GMT and 7 hours ahead of East Coast Time in the USA)How to reach the Yardenit Baptismal Site?Driving from Nazareth (approx. 42 km or 26 miles) will take about one hour. Many visitors enjoy stopping in Kfar Cana, which is directly en route, and the place at which Jesus performed his miracle of turning water into wine.Driving from Jerusalem (approx. 188 km or 116 miles) will take about 2 hours, using the Yitzhak Rabin Highway (Route 6). There is a large parking lot outside the site, in which you can leave your car, free of charge, for as long as you desire.Yardenit, the Jordan River Baptism Site2. Qasr al-Yahud Baptisamal SiteQasr al-Yahud is located about 20 minutes drive (10 km or 6 miles) from Jericho and about 45 minutes drive (49 km or 30 miles) from Jerusalem. It lies within the West Bank area and the area is home to a significant number of now-abandoned churches, monasteries and chapels. The River Jordan here is much smaller than many visitors imagine - at some point, it is more like a stream.Historically, pilgrims would travel here from Jerusalem by camels, which were hardy enough to withstand the desert conditions. The journey would take days, of course. When they arrived, they would set up camp, close by, sometimes staying for days or weeks. The site is also important in Jewish theology, insofar as it is considered to be the place where the children of Israel ended their 40-year sojourn in the wilderness and crossed back into the ‘Promised Land’.In Hebrew, Qasr al-Yahud means ‘Tower of the Jews’. In Arabic, ‘Qasr’ means ‘break’ which might signify the place where the Jews ‘broke’(crossed) the water of the land they were entering. According to tradition, this is also the place where approx. 200 years later, the Prophet Elijah crossed the Jordan (but in the opposite direction) and was then taken up into heaven by ‘fiery chariots’. For many, after the Church of the Nativity and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, this is the third most holy site for Christians in the Holy Land.Qasr al-Yahud Baptismal SiteRecent History ofQasr al-YahudAs a result of conflict between Israel and its neighbours - and a number of landmines in the area - the site was closed for many years. After the Six-Day War, in 1967, when Israel captured the territory, Qasr al-Yahud was put under the control of a National Parks group. The site is far less equipped than its ‘rival’ in Galilee although it does have some facilities.There is no fee for entrance and also dressing rooms and toilets. However, there are no officials there and nor are there refreshment facilities. There are some benches where you can eat the food you have brought and a little shade. Sometimes, you will see priests and pastors giving lectures to their groups here. We would advise you to bring your own water (bottled) since, for much of the year, it can be very hot and if you do not consume sufficient fluids, you run the risk of heatstroke. The water is a little muddier (and even murky) at this site, but it is possible to wade here. Just a few metres away is the Jordanian side, and the ‘border’ between the two countries is marked with nothing more than yellow ‘floater’ ribbons. For those who are looking for a less commercial (and perhaps more unspoilt) experience of baptism, it offers an ideal Rivertunity to contemplate the Jordan River or, indeed, immerse oneself.Church at Qasr al-Yahud Baptismal SiteOrganising a Baptism at Qasr al-YahudJust as with Yardenist (see above) we will be more than happy to help you organize your baptism at this site with the framework of our Jericho, Dead Sea and the Jordan River Tour. Again, as with Yardenit, Bein Harim does not participate directly in the baptism ceremony and if you wish to be baptised with a priest to hand, you will need to contact the office at Qasr el Yahud directly. There is no priest on site here.If you do wish to be baptised as part of an organised day trip, arrangements can be made to ensure the experience is incorporated into your visit to the area - you should allow between 60-90 minutes in entirety. This baptismal site is also relatively close to Jerusalem, which means it is possible to rent a car privately and drive to the area independently. From here, you can explore the wider area - either sites of religious interest or perhaps make a trip to Masada and Ein Gedi, which are not too far away. Public transport in this area is extremely limited and we would not recommend using it, especially if you have a fixed appointment with a priest.Ein Gedi is a highly recommended gem you shouldn't miss!Practical Information onQasr al-YahudOpening Hours: Sunday–Thursday and Saturday: 08.00 - 16.00. Friday and Jewish holidays: 08.00 - 15.00. Tel: (972) 2 650-4844. In winter hours, between November and March, the site closes one hour earlier. Please note that there is no official office at Qasr al-Yahud, and from what we understand it is easier to coordinate a baptism online. If you are staying in Jerusalem, it may also be possible to talk directly with ministers and priests there.Please note that Catholics regard “Bethany Beyond Jordan” as the baptism site of Jesus. It is located in Jordan, not in Israel and has been identified recently as the place where Christ was baptized by John.Click here if you'd like to learn more aboutChristian day toursin Israel and Christian tour packages.

For lovers of Jewish history, religion and culture, you could spend a lifetime exploring the endless sights that Israel offers - all over the country are dotted fascinating spots at which Jewish pilgrims come to worship. Whether tombs, synagogues or villages, they can really evoke the spirit of centuries ago, long before anyone even dreamed there might one day be a State of Israel. Below, we look at a some of the main Jewish holy sites in Israel:City of David Excavations, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © ShutterstockHoly Jewish Sites in JerusalemKing David’s Tomb -Considered to be one of the holiest sites in Israel, this tomb is located opposite the Old City’s Zion Gate and is considered to be the burial place of King David. Above it is the Room of the Last Supper, (sacred to Christians) and a roof complex with a minaret and observation point over Jerusalem.Temple Mount - For Jews, this incredibly holy site is the place at which Abraham is supposed to have been ready to sacrifice his son, Isaac, at God’s request. It is also the place where both ancient temples (built by Solomon and Herod) once stood.Mount of Olives Jewish Cemetery- Over 500 years old, this is the oldest and most important cemetery in Jerusalem. It contains anywhere between 70,000 and 140,000 tombs and many notable rabbis are buried there. The tombs of the Prophets Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi are also on the Mount of Olivesand have been venerated by Jews since medieval times.Mount of Olives Jewish Cemetery, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © Dan PorgesWestern Wall -Probably the most sacred site for Jews, the Western Wall (aka the Kotel) is the last remaining structure from King Herod’s Second Temple. Jews come from around the world here to pray and place notes between the cracks in the wall. Even for those with no religious faith, it is a moving and emotional experience to stand at this spot.Foundation Stone - This rock, at the center of theDome of the Rock, where Mount Moriah (the highest point in early Jerusalem’s proximity to the City of David) once stood, is considered to be the place that the world began. Jews all around the globe pray in its direction.Cave of the Ramban - Nestled in the Upper Kidron Valley, this is believed to be the tomb of the notable scholar from medieval times, Nachmanides (aka The Ramban).Tomb of Simeon the Just - A Jewish High Priest at the time of the Second Temple, this is considered to be his grave and today the tomb is a pilgrimage site for Jewish worshippers, particularly those who bring their 3-year old sons here to give them their first haircut (a ritual known as ‘upsherin’).King David’s Tomb, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © ShutterstockHoly Jewish Sites in Central IsraelTomb of Rabban Gamaliel of Yavne - Rabbi Gamaliel was the first person to lead the Sanhedrin (an assembly of Rabbis, formed after the destruction of the Second Temple). According to Jewish tradition, his greatest achievement was putting an end to the disputes between the philosophical schools of Hillel and Shamai. (Even so, according to tradition, a voice from heaven was heard in, stating that although both views had merit, Hillel’s carried more authority).Tomb of Benjamin, Kfar Saba -Benjamin was the youngest (and much loved) son of the biblical patriarch Jacob and his wife Rachel. His tomb, located in Kfar Saba, called Kever Binyamin in Hebrew, is covered by a small building with a domed roof. Over the tomb entrance is an image of a goblet, harking back to the biblical story of how his brother Joseph placed a goblet in Benjamin’s luggage, in order to bring charges of spying against him.Western Wall, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © ShutterstockHoly Jewish Sites in Northern IsraelHatzor HaGlilit -Close to Safed, this village is home to the tomb of Honi the Circle-Maker, and next to it are the two graves of his grandsons. According to tradition, Honi had the power, through prayer, to make rainfall, and today many Hassidic pilgrims worship here.Mount Meron - Located in the Upper Galilee, Mount Meron (and the village of the same name) is where the burial tomb of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai can be found. Each year, on the Jewish holiday of Lag B’Omer, tens of thousands of ultra-orthodox Jews visit the mount as part of a pilgrimage. Kfar Hananya - This village is named after one by the same name mentioned in the Mishnah (a Jewish holy book) and supposedly home to the burial site of Rabbi Hananya ben Akshaya, who lived hundreds of years ago. Mount Betarim - According to Jewish tradition, this is one of the peaks of Mount Dov and the site at which Abraham entered into a covenantal relationship with God.Mount Meron, Upper Galilee, Israel. Photo credit: © ShutterstockPeki'in - In this village, legend has it that two stones in its synagogue were taken from the walls of the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem. Pilgrims also believe that the synagogue was built on the site where Rabbi Joshua ben Hananya taught before the Bar Kokhba War.Safed -A historic center for Kabbalah (an esoteric Jewish train of philosophy) Safed became a holy city after the expulsion of the Jews from Spain in 1492 who flocked here. Moreover, according to Jewish philosophy, the town was founded by one of Noah’s sons, after the biblical flood. Many Jewish leaders are buried in its cemetery.Tomb of Nachman Chatufa at Kfar Baram - Nachman Chatufa was the son of Rabbi Pinchas and, according to legend, began speaking as a newborn about the Torah. At the age of 12, the boy began revealing prophecies of the future that were once recorded in the book Nevuat Ha Yeled, in Aramaic (the vernacular at that time). He died shortly afterward and was buried in Baram, a village now close to the border with Lebanon.Tomb of Prophet Ovadiah -Baram is also home to the grave of the prophet Ovadya (Obadiah). In the Bible, it is said that he hid 100 prophets in caves, from the wicked King of the day. Obadiah is also famous for acting as the intermediary in an important meeting between King Ahab and Eliyahu.The city of Safed. View from above.Photo credit: © ShutterstockTiberias - Tiberias has great significance in Judaism, being one of the four holy cities (along with Jerusalem, Safed, and Hebron). Located on the shores of the Sea of Galilee, it is known as the place where the Jerusalem Talmud was composed. It was founded around 20 CE by the son of Herod the Great and according to Jewish tradition was built on the site of the ancient Israelite village named Rakat. Tiberias was also home to Masoretes (Jewish scribes, who lived in the area between 5th and 10th CE). Today, Tiberias retains its status as a holy city not just because of the above but also because of the large number of rabbis who established the city as a center for Jewish learning in the 18th and 19th centuries.Tomb of Maimonides- This is the burial spot of the renowned scholar and philosopher Rabbi Moses Maimonides, known by the acronym Rambam. He lived in Spain and Egypt and died 800 years ago, at which time his body was brought to Tiberias. He was a world-famous sage and scholar who organized, codified, and analyzed many ancient Jewish religious and ritual laws. Today, it is a place where thousands come to pray and show respect to a man who is considered to be the greatest rabbi, philosopher, and doctor of his time.Tomb of the Matriarchs -The Tomb of the Matriarchs in Tiberias is also a place where many come to pray, particularly religious women who visit in order to receive blessings for their fertility and to ask for safety for their husband if he is away. The matriarchs are considered to be Yocheved (Moses’s mother), Zipporah (Mose’s wife), Elisheva (Nachson’s wife), Bilhah (Rachel’s maid), and Avigal (the wife of David).At the Ancient Synagogues in the Old City of Safed, Israel. Photo credit: © ShutterstockSynagogues in IsraelBeit Alpha Synagogue - Located in the Gilboa region, this 6th-century settlement (of which the Beth Alpha synagogue was a part) survived into Islamic times. Today it is part of a national park. Discovered in 1928, by kibbutz members, excavations show that it once stood on two floors, containing a courtyard, vestibule, and prayer hall. The Torah Ark (from which Jews prayed) was facing southwest, towards Jerusalem. The floor mosaics are intricate and beautiful, depicting the Binding of Isaac (from Genesis) a Zodiac Wheel, and a synagogue scene. Above the synagogue door are inscriptions both in Aramaic and Greek. Flanking the inscriptions are a lion and a buffalo, representing the synagogue’s ‘guardians. Korazim Synagogue- Korazim was a town in Galilee that continued to prosper after the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE. It is home to a particularly beautiful synagogue, constructed of black basalt and intricately carved columns. The synagogue also boasts a number of Jewish symbols, inscriptions both in Hebrew and Aramaic, and some beautiful carvings. An interesting find made there was a stone seat, inscribed in Aramaic, and today referred to as the ‘Chair of Moses.’ The building itself is believed to have been built between the late 3rd and early 4th century, but then destroyed and rebuilt in the 5th century.Kfar Baram Synagogue - Meaning ‘Son of the People’ in Hebrew and dating back to the 3rd century, this is one of Israel’s oldest synagogues. Located in the north of the country, close to the Lebanon border, it was built out of basalt stone. One unusual inside feature is a portico containing six columns and inside is a sculpture depicting two stone lions (similar to the lions at Chorazin). The front entrance has three doorways, facing Jerusalem. The Ashkenazi HaAri Synagogue, in the Jewish quarter, in Safed (Tzfat), Israel.Photo credit: © ShutterstockAnim Synagogue - Half an hour’s drive from Arad in the Negev desert, this ancient Jewish village once housed a synagogue. Anim was used as a house of prayer between the 4th and 7th centuries. It was discovered during an excavation in 1987 - remains include a prayer hall (facing Jerusalem) a portico and a courtyard. Underneath the stone flooring, evidence of a mosaic was found (it is possible to see small parts of an inscription that remain).Arbel Synagogue- Located on Mount Arbel, near the Sea of Galilee, this synagogue stands in the middle of the remains of an ancient village. Archaeologists agree that it was built in the 4th century and used for several hundred years afterward. Its door, which still stands, is carved out of limestone. There are carvings of medallions and decorative floral motifs and inside sat carved benches and Corinthian columns. It is possible that the synagogue was destroyed in the catastrophic earthquake of 749 CE in Galilee.Hammat Tiberias Synagogue-The extraordinary stone floor of this 4th century Galilee building includes geometric patterns, lions, classic Jewish symbols (including a Menorah lamp, Shofar, and a wonderful Zodiac motif, in the middle of which is Helios, the Sun God).Hurvat Amudim Synagogue -One of the largest synagogues in Galilee, this house was built at the beginning of the 4th century and contains two rows of columns and an inscription in Aramaic.Katzrin Synagogue, Northern Israel.Photo credit: © ShutterstockKafr 'InanSynagogue -East of Acre, in Israel’s north, this Byzantine-period synagogue was partially carved out of the rock, probably during the 5th century CE.KatzrinSynagogue -This ancient synagogue (and the village) are now an open-air museum. The building was constructed in the 6th century but probably destroyed in the terrible earthquake of 748 CE. Inside were stone benches and walls painted with red geometric patterns.MaonSynagogue -Found in the Negev desert, this 6th-century structure is known for its astonishing mosaic floor. Peacocks, lions, and palm trees sit close to traditional Jewish symbols and an inscription in Aramaic. Maoz HaimSynagogue -Situated close to Beit Shean this basilica building dates back to the Byzantine era and contains columns, an apse, and a mosaic floor, mainly made out of geometric patterns. MigdalSynagogue -Located on the shores of the Galilee, Migdal was in active use at the time of the Second Temple, Excavations found a stone on which was carved a Menorah (candelabra) and is estimated to be one of the oldest synagogues in Israel. It was discovered accidentally during a dig in 2009.To visit the highlights of Jewish Israel book a Jewish tour package or a private tour.Remains of a synagogue in the Talmudic village of Katzrin, Israel. Photo credit: © Shutterstock

Israel is a land of deep history, rich spirituality, and stunning landscapes - making it a perfect destination for senior travelers.With expert guides, relaxed pacing, and optional visits to Petra, these packages offer a meaningful way to explore the Holy LandWhy Israel is Ideal for SeniorsIsrael is a compact yet diverse destination. It offers:Well-developed tourism infrastructure with high-quality accommodations.Expert guides who bring history and spirituality to life.A wide range of interests – religious heritage, archaeology, natural beauty, and culinary delights.Comfort-focused itinerariesare designed to minimize long travel days and ensure plenty of rest and enrichment.Whether you're looking to deepen your spiritual connection, walk in the footsteps of history, or enjoy scenic landscapes, Israel delivers.Recommended Tours for Seniors in IsraelJewish Israel & Petra Tour Package - 9 DaysPerfect for seniors with a passion for Jewish heritage and history, this enriching journey explores Israel’s key Jewish sites while offering moments of spiritual connection and cultural exploration. The itinerary includes Jerusalem, Masada, the Dead Sea, Caesarea, Acre, the Galilee and Golan, with a special highlight: a tour of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Jordan.Highlights include:The City of David and Underground JerusalemMasada & Dead Sea experienceHistoric sites in the Galilee & Golan HeightsDay of leisure in Tel AvivPetra tour with round-trip flights from EilatExplore More >> A monk in Jerusalem.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinClassical Israel & Petra Tour Package - 12 Days This well-paced tour is ideal for seniors seeking a full introduction to Israel’s cultural, historical, and natural treasures, with the bonus of a day trip to Petra. Explore Jerusalem, Nazareth, Caesarea, the Sea of Galilee, and more, while also enjoying leisure time in Tel Aviv and Eilat. Highlights include: Old & New JerusalemBethlehem and JerichoMediterranean coastal cities: Caesarea, Acre & Rosh HanikraGolan Heights and Northern GalileePetra day trip with convenient flightsAmple leisure time in key citiesExplore More >>Tourists floating in the Dead Sea. Photo credit: © Shutterstock Christian Israel & Petra Tour Package - 12 DaysA spiritually immersive journey ideal for Christian seniors. Follow the path of Jesus from Nazareth to Jerusalem, along the shores of the Sea of Galilee, and to the place of His crucifixion and resurrection. This tour also includes a serene day by the Dead Sea and an unforgettable visit to Petra.Highlights include: Jerusalem’s Via Dolorosa & Church of the Holy SepulchreBaptismal site on the River JordanBethlehem, Jericho, and the GalileeLeisure days for rest and personal reflectionPetra day trip with round-trip flightsExplore More >>Bahai Gardens, Haifa.Photo credit: © ShutterstockChristian Holy Land Israel Tour - 10 DaysDesigned for Christian seniors wanting a deep connection to Biblical sites without the addition of Petra, this tour highlights the core locations of Jesus’ life and ministry. A balanced mix of sacred history and scenic beauty makes this package popular among church groups and solo travelers alike.Highlights include: Bethlehem, Nazareth, Cana, and the Sea of GalileeOld & New Jerusalem with a focus on Jesus' footstepsGolan Heights, Masada, and the Dead SeaMediterranean coast: Caesarea, Haifa, Akko & Rosh HaNikraExplore More >>Classical 10-Day Israel Tour PackageThis all-encompassing tour is perfect for seniors interested in Israel’s historical landmarks, natural beauty, and religious significance, without crossing into Jordan. From Roman ruins and Biblical towns to ancient fortresses and volcanic craters, this package is ideal for curious minds and adventurous spirits.Highlights include:Jerusalem, Bethlehem, and NazarethBanias and the extinct volcano crater Bikrat YamMasada, the Dead Sea, and Nimrod FortressNorthern Galilee and the Golan HeightsExplore More >>Why These Tours Are Great for Seniors: Comfortable, air-conditioned transportationWell-paced itineraries with leisure timeExpert licensed guides with engaging storytellingHandpicked hotels suited for senior travelersEfficient flights to/from Petra for reduced travel fatigueWhether your focus is Jewish heritage, Christian spirituality, classical landmarks, or natural wonders, Israel offers a journey that’s both meaningful and accessible. And with these curated tours, seniors can explore confidently, comfortably, and at a pace that suits them.Ready to explore the Holy Land and beyond? These tours make it easy to turn that dream into an unforgettable reality.

Whether you’re a Christian pilgrim, a history lover, or simply a curious traveler, visiting Bethlehem is a must for anyone who’s taking a trip to Israel.Practically a household name in most of the Western world (and much of the East too) this little town, a few kilometers from Jerusalem, is - of course - famous for hosting one of the most well-known events in history - the birth of Jesus Christ.The Church of the Nativity, BethlehemRecreating the Nativity StoryThe Nativity Story, as it is known, began in Nazareth, in northern Israel, when a young Mary was visited by the Angel Gabriel (telling her she would bear a child who would be the Son of God.It ended in Bethlehem, with Mary and Joseph cradling their infant in a stable, because there was no room at a nearby inn. It’s a much-loved story and, over the centuries, the Nativity story has been woven into the fabric of children’s lives.Carol concerts (with hymns that include ‘Oh Little Town of Bethlehem' and ‘Away in a Manger’) and nativity pageants, recreating the story of shepherds watching their flocks, Jesus lying in a manger (since he had no crib for a bed) and the journey of the Three Kings - Melchior, Caspar, and Balthazar - who traveled from faraway lands, bearing gifts for the infant, are something that really brings the story to life.A Holy Town with a Rich HistoryNo wonder then that every Christian pilgrim will want to make a journey to this sacred place, and those of other faiths will find it no less interesting, because of the rich history surrounding the tale.Bethlehem at duskHome to the Church of the Nativity (in a building constructed by the Roman Emperor Constantine, inside which a silver star marks the spot where Jesus is said to have been born), the town also boasts the Mar Saba monastery (carved into a cliff overlooking the Kidron Valley, and inhabited by 15 Greek Orthodox monks), the Milk Grotto (popular with those who wish to pray to Jesus’ mother, Mary), Shepherd’s Fields (where the birth of Jesus was announced) and Solomon’s Pools (which, historically, were an essential water source for Jerusalem). So there really is quite a lot to see!Where is Bethlehem?Bethlehem is extremely close to Jerusalem - approximately 9kms (5.5 miles), in the southern area of the Judean mountains - which makes for a relatively easy journey. However, the fact that it sits in the West Bank means that when you travel there you will have to cross out of sovereign Israel territory into an area controlled by the Palestinian Authority. So, having your passport handy is essential - other than that, it’s not a difficult journey to make.Shepherd’s Fields ChurchIn practical terms, as we’ve said above, it’s a simple journey to make, since it really is a hop, skip and jump from Jerusalem. Moreover, there are no restrictions as to how many times you can go back and forth, and because the border crossing is easily accessible, and the guards on both sides are helpful and friendly, you don’t need to worry.Star Marks the Spot, Where Jesus Christ Born, Grotto of the Nativity BethlehemAnd in terms of safety, whilst there are occasional flare-ups in Israel, Bethlehem tends to be a very safe place for tourists to visit and very few people encounter any problems. So, let’s look at the options for getting there:Visiting Bethlehem by Public BusTaking a public bus is cheap, safe, and pretty easy and there are two upon which you can hop, one in the west of the city and the other in the east:Egged bus 163 - this leaves both from the city’s Central Bus Station on the Jaffa Road (next door to which is the main train station and opposite which is the Jerusalem light railway). The journey itself only takes 27 minutes; however, it will not drop you exactly in the town, rather at Rachel’s Tomb, on the Israeli side of the border. You can then walk across the checkpoint (showing your passport) and continue on by foot, for 25 minutes (or grab a cab).Note thatEgged Buses are usually greenBus 21 from the East Jerusalem Bus Station - located on Sultan Suleiman Street, opposite the Damascus Gate in the Old City of Jerusalem, there’s no timetable for this bus but the service is frequent. The bus is blue in color and don’t be afraid to ask the locals for help - everyone is friendly and speaks English.Unlike the Egged bus, the 21 bus travels through Beit Jala, right across the checkpoint, and drops you directly in Bethlehem. So whilst it takes a bit longer than the 163, it’s direct and the chances are that you’ll be able to show your passport on the bus itself, rather than disembark.Visiting Bethlehem by TaxiThis is a viable option if you want to travel independently but want to avoid the hassle of public transport. If you are traveling to Bethlehem from West Jerusalem, you will be picked up in a taxi with a white number plate and this can only take you as far as the checkpoint.There, you can cross by foot and then easily catch a taxi with a yellow number plate the rest of the way (or walk, which takes about 25-30 minutes).The most popular ride-sharing app in Israel is GETT, and you can also use Uber and YangoAlternatively, take the Light Railway to East Jerusalem and there find a taxi with a yellow number plate. This driver will be able to take you the entire way. The best thing to do, in our opinion, is to negotiate a price before you get in and ask the driver if (for a reasonable sum) he will wait for you in Bethlehem and then drive you home at the end of your trip.Visiting Bethlehem On FootIf you’re up for an adventure, and you’ve got comfy shoes, it’s certainly possible to follow in the footsteps of Mary and Joseph and walk to Bethlehem, though you should allow a good two hours, if departing from the Old City. Note that this method should be practiced with a group of pilgrims and a local guide.Walking to Bethlehem? It's possible, but there are better waysEssentially, you’ll follow the Bethlehem and Hebron Roads, and if you’re walking in summer (which we don't recommend, since you might end up with heat exhaustion) make sure to take plenty of water and a wide-brimmed hat.Visiting Bethlehem with a Rented CarWhilst renting a car in Israel is easy and relatively inexpensive, because Bethlehem is in the West Bank (and under the jurisdiction of the Palestinian Authority), for insurance reasons it is not possible to take an Israeli rental car across the border/checkpoint.Cars you've rented in Israel won't be able to enter Palestinian territoriesIt is possible to drive your rental car to the checkpoint and leave it there, continuing after the checkpoint either by taxi. You can then cross back after your trip and jump back in your car.Visiting Bethlehem with a Guided TourThis is by far and away the most convenient option, in that everything will be taken care of for you. The advantages of taking an organized tour are not small - not only will you be picked up and dropped off at your hotel (or another central point in Jerusalem), but you will also have the services of Israeli and Palestinian guides.An organized tour: the simplest way to see Bethlehem They are experienced, qualified guides, with a command of both the Hebrew and Arabic language, and they’ll be with you at all times, to deal with the logistics of the border crossing and also to allay any nerves you might have.And not only are there regular tours departing from Jerusalem to Bethlehem running daily, but it’s also possible to take a ‘multi-location’ day trip - perhaps to Bethlehem, Jericho, and Qasr al Yahud (the spot at which John the Baptist baptized Jesus) or combine Jerusalem and Bethlehem - perfect for Christian pilgrims.Qasr al Yahud Baptismal Site, right next to the Jordanian BorderTo sum up, it might be a little more expensive but taking a guided tour is definitely the easiest way to navigate this kind of trip. In the event that there are political tensions, you’ll know about them beforehand via your guide, plus you won’t have to deal with language barriers, cultural differences, and any issues at the checkpoint itself.On a typical organized trip, you’ll be taken to all of the major sites and, should you be traveling to Israel in December, then there’s the option of taking a Christmas Eve tour to Bethlehem, where you can soak up the wonderful atmosphere and take part in the traditional Midnight mass in Manger Square.For more about the package tours, privately-guided trips, and day excursions around Israel (and to Petra, in Jordan) that we offer, contact us by email or telephone and, in the meantime, feel free to take a look at our blog, in which we write about every imaginable aspect of Israeli life, from food & drink, sandy beaches, and desert fortresses to holy places, national parks and desert hikes.

Whether you’re Christian, Jewish, Muslim, or any other faith, Israel’s holy sites should be part of your itinerary. There are sacred places spread across Israel, from Galilee in the north to Jericho in the south. This is where biblical events unfolded and where every place has some mystical, religious, or historical significance. So, plan your pilgrimage to the Promised Land today, and prepare to be awe-struck.The Sacred City of JerusalemThe best Christian tours in Israel always include Jerusalem, where Jesus spent the last week of his life and was crucified. If you have to pick just one destination in Israel, it should be Jerusalem. This incredible city is steeped in religious significance and thousands of years of history. When you tour Israel with a top-rated guide, you can see places you might not have found by yourselfThe Wailing Wall. Photo credit: © ShutterstockChurch of the Holy Sepulchre - Without a doubt, this is the top Christian attraction in Israel. This impressive 4th-century church holds the last Stations of the Cross, including Golgotha and Christ’s tomb.Via Dolorosa - Walking along the same route Jesus took, bearing his cross to Calvary, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Follow the stone-paved lanes through Jerusalem’s Old City, pausing at the Stations of the Cross.Church of All Nations - You can’t miss the stunning golden mosaic on the facade of this church. Also known as the Basilica of Agony, this holy site is on the Mount of Olives, alongside the Garden of Gethsemane.Dormition Abbey - This impressive abbey and church, stands on Mount Zion, just outside the Old City walls. It is one of the largest and most beautiful Christian sites in Jerusalem.Garden Tomb - Protestant tradition holds that the rock-cut tomb in this serene garden is Christ’s burial site. Join a Jerusalem tour to visit the sacred tomb.Dominus Flevit - This is one of the most important Christian landmarks on the Mount of Olives. From here there are stunning views of the Old City, and it’s easy to imagine Jesus looking out over the city as he wept.Mount of Olives - The Mt. of Olives is a highlight for all visitors to Jerusalem, and it is home to several sacred sites. Tour the churches on the Mount of Olives, including the Pater Noster Church and the Chapel of the Ascension.The Lush Green Galilee’s Must-See Christian SitesTake a trip through the picturesque scenery of northern Israel, to the Sea of Galilee. This is where Jesus spent his ministry, going from village to village, teaching the word of God. It is also where he recruited his apostles and where Jesus performed unforgettable miracles like walking on water.Aerial view of Capernaum. Photo credit: © ShutterstockCapernaum -This ancient fishing village on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee is where Jesus based himself during his ministry. Discover the religious and historical treasures of Capernaum, starting with an ancient synagogue where Christ may have preached.Church of Annunciation - One of the most sacred Israel holy sites is the Church of Annunciation. It marks the spot where the Angel Gabriel told Mary of her future son, the Messiah. The church is in Nazareth, a popular stop on Christian Galilee tours.Jordan River Baptismal Site (Yardenit) - Christian pilgrims often stop at Yardenit, to be baptized in the Jordan River. Grab the opportunity to be baptized in the same river where John baptized Jesus.Church of the Multiplication - When you visit Tabgha, you can stand where Jesus shared the loaves and fish among the multitudes. It is easy to picture the Biblical scene that took place at this sacred site by the Sea of Galilee.Mount of Beatitudes - From here there are breathtaking views across the Sea of Galilee. The magnificent Church of the Beatitudes is rivaled only by the views from the mount.The Wedding Church - Learn how Jesus attended a wedding in Cana and turned water into wine. Israel Christian tours of the Galilee stop at the Wedding Church, which was built to commemorate the miracle that took place here.Magdala - Walk among the remains of this ancient city on the shore of the Sea of Galilee and be transported back in time to when Magdala was a Biblical fishing town and home to Mary Magdalene.Visit Bethlehem, Where Christianity Was BornKids all over the world learn about the night before Christmas and the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem. Join a guided tour of this iconic city, and see for yourself where Christ was born. With a Bethlehem tour, you can sit back and relax while your guide takes care of all the details and gets you safely, and conveniently to the most sacred places in Bethlehem.Basilica of theNativity.Photo credit: © ShutterstockNativity Church - Standing in front of the Holy Grotto where Christ was born, is an emotional moment for Christians. Travelers on to Israel say that the Nativity Church is one of their most memorable experiences.Shepherds’ Fields - Imagine those shepherds, 2,000 years ago, watching their sheep at night, on the first Christmas Eve in Israel. Christian tours pass by Shepherds’ Fields en route to Bethlehem.Milk Grotto -This unforgettable Israel holy site is where Mary nursed baby Jesus. The small, peaceful grotto, hollowed out from white stone, is the perfect place for a moment’s reflection.Church of St. Catherine - Discover the underground crypts beneath the church and see where Midnight Mass is celebrated on Christmas Eve.The church stands where Jesus had his apparition of St. Catherine and foresaw her future martyrdom.Manger Square - Close your eyes for a moment and be transported back 2,000 years to when the Holy family arrived at the Bethlehem inn in the middle of the night. Surrounding Manger Square are ancient churches.Jericho - A Hidden GemCheck out one of the oldest cities in Israel. In the well-known biblical story, Joshua marches his troops around the walls of Jericho until they fall. And Jesus passed through Jericho performing several miracles on the way. Jericho is a Palestinian city in the West Bank, near the Dead Sea. The quickest, safest, and easiest way to visit Jericho, is with a guided tour. Sign-up today for a tour of Jericho to make your trip stress-free.Qasr Al-Yehud.Photo credit: © ShutterstockQasr Al-Yehud - Not far from Jericho is the Jordan River and the site of Christ’s baptism by John. Take advantage of the opportunity to be baptized at this sacred location.If you’ve dreamed of seeing where Jesus lived, or if you’re just curious, now is the time to book an Israel Christian tour. Come and explore the biblical sites of the Promised Land.

For many Christians, a trip to Israel is the visit of a lifetime - an opportunity to walk in the footsteps of Jesus, exploring his birthplace, early and formative years, and retrace his last walk to Calvary in Jerusalem. Without a doubt, this is a very emotional and rewarding experience. Israel is home to countless churches, some ‘must-see’ sites and others less well-known. Dotted all across the country, they contain mosaics and artifacts often dating back thousands of years, which makes them fascinating not just from a religious but also a historical viewpoint. Let’s take a look at some of the many wonderful churches you’re likely to come across on various Christian day tours in IsraelChurch of All Nations, Mount of Olives, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © ShutterstockJERUSALEM CHURCHES1. Jerusalem Old City and Mount ZionChurch of the Holy Sepulchre - Built on the spot where Christ was crucified, buried, and resurrected, this extraordinary and enormous church is filled with shrines, works of art, and small altars and chapels. Consecrated in 335 CE, it is the most visited and famous church in Jerusalem, if not Israel and its enormous interior can hold up to eight thousand people.Church of St. Anne - Close to the Lion’s Gate, this church was built during Crusaders' times and sits on the ruins of a Byzantine church. The basilica has three aisles and boasts cross-vaulted ceilings and pillars and a simple interior.Cathedral of Saint James - This ornately designed building in the Armenian Quarter is one of the few Crusader-era churches to remain intact.Dormition Abbey - easily recognizable, due to its round (not rectangular) shape, this monastic church was built by German Emperor Wilhelm II and has a beautiful mosaic floor.Church of Saint Alexander Nevsky - this Russian Orthodox Church is built over the remains of what historians believe was the ‘Judgment Gate’ where Jesus passed on his way to Golgotha.For a complete list of Jerusalem’s Old City churches, take a look atthis article. You can also join one of multiple Jerusalem tours to explore the Jerusalem central churches. Dormition Abbey.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin2. Jerusalem - Mount of OlivesChurch of All Nations - this impressive church’s facade features Corinthian columns under a mosaic portraying Jesus and is thought to be the place he prayed before his arrest by the Romans.Pater Noster - the highlight of this Carmelite Monastery is the decorated ceramic tiles, spelling out the Lord’s Prayer in a wide variety of scripts and languages.Dominus Flevit - the Italian architect Barluzzi designed this beautiful church in the shape of a teardrop, and its famous window frames a view of the Old City behind it.Church of Mary Magdalene - this distinctive Russian Orthodox Church was constructed in 1886 and, in traditional style, has seven gilded onion domes. It has a visually stunning interior with many icons and the gardens are beautifully kept.Russian Orthodox Convent and Church of the Ascension - this is supposedly the site where Jesus ascended to heaven, 40 days after his resurrection, and boasts an impressive bell tower.To see the full list of churches on the Mount of Olives, click here. Try this 2-day Christian Jerusalem tour to see most of the above-mentioned churches as well as the Garden of Gethsemane andThe Pools of Bethesda.Pater Noster Church, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © Shutterstock3. Jerusalem’s Ein Kerem ChurchesChurch of the Visitation - this Franciscan church is named after Mary’s visit to the summer house of the parents of John the Baptist and the blue mosaic on the exterior illustrates this.Convent of the Sisters of Zion - this beautiful Catholic nunnery was founded by converted JewMarie-Alphonse Ratisbonne and houses a guesthouse and library. Underneath is a large water pool that dates back to Second Temple times, as well as a number of Roman flagstones.Gorny or "Moscobia" Convent - this Russian monastery consists of several small churches and was founded as an attempt to ‘mark territory’. Today it is inhabited by 48 nuns.Church of Nativity of John the Baptist - designed by Italian architect Barluzzi, this Catholic church dates back to Crusader times and is easily identifiable because of its tall tower and round spire. It also boasts a grotto which is supposed to have been the birthplace of John.St John In The Wilderness - this Franciscan monastery was built on Byzantine ruins and sits next to a spring in a wooded area. It commemorates the early years of John the Baptist.To see Ein Kerem churches join one of Jerusalem Private tours.Convent of the Sisters of Zion, Ein Kerem.Photo credit: © ShutterstockCHURCHES IN NORTHERN ISRAEL1. Nazareth ChurchesThe Church of the Annunciation - built on the spot where the Virgin Mary was visited by the Angel Gabriel, this church’s breathtaking basilica is 50 meters high and its colorful mosaics depict the Holy Family.Church of Saint Joseph - according to legend, this church was built over the carpentry workshop of Jesus’ father, Joseph.Christ Church, Nazareth - built in 1871 and shaped like a cross, this Anglican church was the second of its kind in the Holy Land.Coptic Church of the Annunciation - this Greek Orthodox church was built in 1750 and stands over the ruins of a 12th century Crusader church, destroyed by the Mamluks.Greek Catholic Church of Nazareth - this Byzantine Catholic church was built in the early 20th century by Archbishop Hakim Maksymosa.Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation - also known as the Greek Orthodox Church of Saint Gabriel, this medieval church’s underground chapel contains a spring.Synagogue Church - tradition has it that this small church is the same building that used to be the village synagogue in the time of Jesus. Above the doorway is a sign stating ‘the synagogue.”For more about churches in Nazareth, click here. To visit the main Nazareth churches join a day Nazareth Tour.Church of Saint Joseph, Nazareth. Photo credit: © Shutterstock2. The Galilee ChurchesMultiplication Church, Tabgha - this Roman Catholic church is overseen by the Benedictine Order and is the spot at which Jesus performed his miracle with loaves and fishes.Church of the Primacy of Saint Peter, Tabgha - this Franciscan church is the spot at which Jesus appeared to his disciples after his resurrection and commissioned Peter as leader of his church.Wedding Church, Cana - this Franciscan church is the place at which Jesus performed his miracle of turning water into wine, at a poor couple’s wedding.Church of the Transfiguration - located at Mount Tabor and built by Franciscans in 1924, this large church is the spot at which Jesus was transfigured in the presence of Peter, John, and James.Mount Beatitudes Church - situated on Mount Eremos, this Roman Catholic Franciscan chapel has a marble veneer and gold mosaic in its dome.Church of St. Andrew, Old City of Acre - this Crusader-era church contains a gothic marble portal, brought to Acre as a war trophy. Built in 1765, it is ornately decorated and houses many icons.Naim Church - this Franciscan church is located near Mount Taborin a Galilee village where Jesus is thought to have brought back to life a widow’s son.The Pilgrimage Church of St. Peter - this modern catholic church is located in Capernaum, where both Jesus and his first disciple, Peter, lived.For more information about churches in Galilee, click here. Churches of Acre built by Crusaders are described in this article. If you are interested in visiting some of the churches join a Christian Galilee tour.Multiplication Church, Tabgha. Photo credit: © Shutterstock3. Haifa ChurchesSt. Elijah Cathedral - serving the Greek Catholics of Haifa, this cathedral was designed by architect Sammihorn Atallah. Its front is covered with a cross and a few meters away is a small bell tower.St. Louis the King Cathedral - founded in 1889, this church serves as the headquarters of the Maronite Catholics in Israel and was dedicated to King Louis IX.Muhraka Monastery - this Monastery sits on Mount Carmel, which is said to have been the traditional home of Elijah the Prophet. It boasts incredible views of the surrounding area.Sacred Heart Chapel, Haifa - this Catholic church is located on Mount Carmel and is known for its unique design (it was once a windmill) with spectacular views over the Mediterranean.St. Joseph's Church, Haifa - Designed by Italian architect Antonio Barluzzi, this Carmelite church was inaugurated in 1961 and is the last building Barluzzi designed in the Holy Land.Stella Maris Monastery - Latin for ‘Star of the Sea’ this Carmelite church dates back to 1631 and its nearby monastery once served as a hospital for the soldiers of Napoleon.To tour Haifa churches don't hesitate to join Haifa and the Carmel Private Tour.Seaview, Haifa.Photo credit: © ShutterstockCHURCHES IN CENTRAL ISRAEL1. Churches in Tel AvivSt. Anthony's Church- completed in 1932, this Catholic church is built in Gothic Revival style and was named in honor of St. Anthony of Padua, a priest of the Franciscan Order.Immanuel Church - this Lutheran church was established in 1904 for the German Evangelicals of the area and sits in the German-American colony area of Tel Aviv. Today Protestants and a community of Messianic Jews worship here.Saint Nicholas Monastery - this Armenian monastery sits in the Old City of Jaffa, close to the harbor, and was founded before 1000 CE in the name of St. Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors.St. Peter's Church - built in 1654 and dedicated to Saint Peter, over a medieval citadel, the building was twice destroyed and rebuilt. It has a tall, brick façade and towering bell tower and is a distinctive building in Jaffa.If you would like to visit Tel Aviv churches, join aTel Aviv and Old Jaffa Private Tour.St. Peter's Church, Jaffa.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin2. Churches Outside JerusalemThe Latrun Trappist Monastery - established in 1890, by Trappist monks, many of whom believe that language is sacred and have therefore taken vows of silence, this monastery also boasts a vineyard. Today it produces a number of excellent wines and liquors that are sold in the Abbey shop.Beit Jamal Monastery - Meaning ‘ the House of the Camel’ is a Catholic monastery run by Salesian priests. Close by is a small church built in 1930 on the ruins of a 5th-century Byzantine church discovered on the site.Benedictine monastery in Abu Ghosh - Run by the Olivetan Benedictine Order, this church is built on the foundations of a Crusader Church of the Resurrection, established in the 12th century on top of Roman ruins. There is a fountain that flows out from a crypt below and twice a year the church - along with the nearby Notre-Dame de l’Arche church - hosts a prominent classical and choral music festival.The Latrun Trappist Monastery. Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinCHURCHES IN THE WEST BANKChurch of the Nativity, Bethlehem - originally commissioned by Emperor Constantine the Great, this basilica contains a grotto which is of great significance to Christians since they believe it to be the birthplace of Jesus. It is the oldest continuously-used grotto used for worship in Christianity. The basilica itself is the oldest of its kind in the Holy Land.Church of St. Catherine, Bethlehem - affiliated with the Catholic Church and Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, it also functions as a Franciscan monastery. There is a complex of caves under the building and it is part of UNESCO’s World Heritage List, under the title of “Birthplace of Jesus, Church of the Nativity''.Chapel of Shepherd's Field, Bethlehem - this Roman Catholic church marks the place where, according to tradition, angels first announced the birth of Christ. Built by the Franciscans in 1953, it was designed by architect Antonio Barluzzi and has five apses, which symbolize the outline of a nomadic tent.Chapel of the Milk Grotto, Bethlehem - carved out of soft white rock, this is a sacred site both for Christian and Muslim pilgrims and is popular with new mothers and women who are trying to become pregnant. According to tradition, Mary and Joseph stopped here and as Mary nursed baby Jesus, a drop of her milk fell upon the stone and it turned white.Mar Saba Monastery - this Greek Orthodox monastery was founded in 483 by Sabbas the Sanctified and is considered to be one of the world’s oldest inhabited monasteries (today it houses around 20 monks). One of its famous ancient traditions is its refusal to allow entrance to women.Monastery of Saints John and George of Choziba - located in Wadi Qelt, this extraordinary monastery literally hangs off a cliff. It dates back to around 500 CE and can only be reached by a pedestrian bridge. Traditionally, the area is associated with the Prophet Elijah and holds the relics of three Eastern Orthodox saints, which means it is very popular with pilgrims.Monastery of the Temptation, Jericho - located on a cliff, this is the place where Jesus spent 40 days and nights successfully resisting the temptations that Satan placed before him.To visit churches in the West Bank join one of the West Bank tours.Church of the Nativity, Bethlehem.Photo credit: © Shutterstock

Whether you’re a practicing Christian, an amateur historian, a theology student or simply a curious tourist, we think it’s fair to say that there’s nowhere like Israel to spend Christmas. Actually, the fact is that Israel is probably the ultimate place to spend this time of the year, with cultural and religious events held throughout the country, both in the larger centres and smaller towns.Christmas tree in Bethlehem. Photo credit: © ShutterstockNow if you’re coming from North America, or Western Europe, the chances are that you’ll associate Christmas with the date 25th December, the date that many believe commemorates the birth of Jesus. However, in Israel, Christmas is actually celebrated on three different dates - December 25th, January 7th, and January 19th. This, of course, is because different denominations follow different calendars - the Roman Catholic church follows the Gregorian calendar whilst the Armenian Church (in Jerusalem) and the Greek Orthodox Church follow what is known as the Julian calendar.Which Calendar?What does that mean in practice? Well, essentially that Roman Catholics (as well as Anglicans, Episcopalians, and Lutherans, celebrate on December 25th, and actually the Greek Orthodox Church celebrates on this day too. However, according to the Julian calendar, which is about 13 days out of sync with the Gregorian calendar. December 25th actually falls on January 7th!To make things even more complicated, the Armenian Church in Jerusalem celebrates Christmas on January 6th (according to the Julian calendar) which - in real terms - ends up being January 19th according to Gregorian calculations.Surprised Santa. Photo by krakenimages on UnsplashA Unique Experience in a Holy LandOver the years, in practice, Christmas celebrations in Israel have slowly become more aligned with Western celebrations - including the putting up of Christmas trees. Decorations of light and even Christmas markets. However, let us not forget that this is the Holy Land, and prayers, worship, celebrations, and the reciting of beautiful liturgies always take center stage, both in Bethlehem (famous for being the birthplace of Jesus) and many a communal feast!Ultimately, spending Christmas in the Holy Land has to be on many a bucket list and few come away from this kind of experience disappointed. So for those of you lucky to be arriving in a few months (and, sorry, as you know there are no guarantees, thanks to COVID-19), we thought we’d fill you in. It’s been a mad 18 months and having something to look forward to always helps so here’s our complete guide to the hows, wheres, and whys of Christmas events and services all over Israel. Happy Holidays everyone!Christmas in JerusalemThere’s no more atmospheric place to be than Jerusalem at Christmas time. The festival is really quite visible in the streets - with decorations and lights on many corners - more than anywhere else in Israel - which means you can really soak up the atmosphere. Whether you want to wander from church to church in the Old Cityor enjoy something a bit more modern around the Mamilla Mall or the YMCA, you won’t be short of activities to enjoy in a city that combines old with new.There are quite a few Christmas markets, the most popular of which seem to be the one at the New Gate that runs from Saturday to Tuesday in the week before Christmas Day (free entrance). For something more young and fun, head to the Abraham Hostel for their annual party, or walk over to the YMCA which holds a lovely evening each year, complete with carols, musical performances, and sometimes even dancing. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © ShutterstockThe Church of the Holy SepulchreWithin the walls of the Old City, the most popular church to visit at this time of year is usually the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Believed to be the site where Jesus was crucified, buried, and resurrected, each year it holds a solemn Midnight Mass and the atmosphere inside the church - lit with hundreds of candles - is nothing short of spectacular.There are also many other places to enjoy liturgy - both in the Christian and Armenian quarters and also at the Church of All Nations and also Dominus Flevit) with its famous and evocative glass window) on the nearby Mount of Olives. For a more detailed look at what to do in this extraordinary city, over December, take a look at our Christmas in Jerusalem article.Christmas in BethlehemAt this time of year, this small town just a few kilometers from Jerusalem comes to life, with Christians, Jews, and Muslims all celebrating together at the city’s central area, aptly named Manger Square. There’s a huge tree lit up for Christmas in Bethlehem, and you’ll no doubt hear carols being sung and have a chance to enjoy performances.Midnight Mass is held at the Church of the Nativity but, because of its popularity, entrance is by ticket only. But fear not - the mass is live screened around the world and you can watch it happening inside the church from a huge screen installed outside, in Manger Square. This really is an astonishing experience, and many visitors enjoy a Christmas Eve in Bethlehem Tour, which includes a festive meal in the area.Church of Shepherd's Field, Bethlehem.Photo credit: © ShutterstockChristmas in Nazareth - Market Stalls and Firework DisplaysNazareth might be a small city in comparison to Jerusalem, but it’s definitely worth a visit at this time of the year. Home to Israel’s largest Christian population, historically it was the place Mary was visited by the Angel Gabriel (announcing to her that she would bear a child) as well as being the place where Jesus spent his childhood.Nazareth is also within a short driving distance of the Sea of Galilee (if you’re in the mood for an outing and want to enjoy pastoral views, the famous baptismal site of Yardenit,and beautiful churches, including those where Jesus performed miracles and gave his famous Sermon on the Mount).Within Nazareth itself, there are beautiful churches to visit, including the Church of the Annunciation and the Church of St. Joseph. The city begins celebrating Christmas in the early part of December, with the lighting of a large Christmas tree in the city center. Trees are put up in many streets and there are also outdoor markets with stalls, where you can enjoy both Christmas and Hanukkah celebrations (Hanukkah is the Jewish festival of lights).On Christmas Eve, which is December 24th, why not join the afternoon parade which proceeds through streets towards the Church of the Annunciation, where you can afterwards enjoy a lovely firework display? Christmas mass is then held inside, at the Basilica, at 7 pm.Inside the Church of Annunciation, Nazareth.Photo credit: © ShutterstockChristmas in Jaffa -Music, Lights, Artwork and MassJaffa, which sits just south of Tel Aviv is another beautiful place where Jews, Christians, and Muslims have lived peacefully side by side for years now. In December, the vibrant Jaffa Flea Market (which is always good if you’re looking for vintage finds, cheap clothes, or just some ‘treasure’) is adorned with Christmas lights. After you’ve wandered the area, you can enjoy a light bite, some traditional hummus, or a local mint tea in one of the many cafes there, before taking a walk down to the historic Jaffa Port.On the way, stop on Yefet Street and admire the huge Christmas tree that stands by the Clock Tower. There are often Hanukkah celebrations at the same time (last year, there were illuminated dreidels - the toys that children spin on this fun Jewish festival). There’s lots of artwork to see and several musical performances, as well as lots of cultural and communal activities. You can attend Midnight Mass and other Christmas services at one of the Catholic and Protestant churches around the city:St. Peter's Church - this Franciscan church in the historical part of Jaffa is where St. Peter performed numerous miracles and, perched at the top of a hill, has been a Christian center for thousands of years.Immanuel Church - built in 1904, to accommodate the area’s German Evangelical community, this Lutheran church is always happy to greet new faces and stands on the foundation of Judaism and the Jewish People.St. Nicholas’s Monastery at the Jaffa Port - built in 1 CE, and today hosting an Armenian church, this is one of the oldest structures in Jaffa and Napoleon even visited his soldiers here in 1799!St. Anthony's Church - opened in 1932 and named after the monk Franciscan Mafdobe, a Franciscan patron, this church is very popular with Catholics. It offers beautiful interiors and a serene atmosphere. At its front, there is a unique clock.And just to make it clear, the doors of all of these churches are open for everyone - so whether you’re a local or tourist, a Christian, Muslim, or Jew you’re are welcome to pop in and experience some traditional Jaffa hospitality!Old City of Jaffa, Israel.Photo credit: © ShutterstockChristmas in Haifa - The ‘Holiday of Holidays’Haifa is one of the few cities in Israel where Arabs and Jews actually live side by side, in relative harmony (and we say ‘Hallelujah’ to that!) A real Mediterranean city, situated on a hill and offering picturesque views of the surrounding Mount Carmel, it’s a wonderful place to walk around, with lovely architecture, small stores, and the famous Bahai Gardens.If you’re here in December, start with a walk around the traditional Wadi Nisnas neighborhood (a traditional and somewhat mixed area of Arabs and Jews). ‘Nisnas’ in Arabic means ‘mongoose’ and is a maze of old streets and alleyways, filled with small stores, bakeries, and artisan workshops.From there, you can head off into the German Colony, an area that has been beautifully restored in the last two decades. Look out for the famous Templar houses, built in the 1860’s - they have distinctive roofs - and stop for a coffee in one of the many bars and restaurants that line the main street.In the weeks before Christmas, Haifa loves to enjoy the 'Holiday of Holidays' with a series of events that mix up Christmas, Hanukkah, and Eid-al Adha! These include arts and crafts for kids, an antique fair, food prepared by the locals in Wadi Nisnas, music by local artists, and even a circus. And, naturally, there’s also a beautifully lit tree.Christmas tree.Photo by Kieran White on UnsplashTogether, this ‘Holiday of Holidays’ represents a marvelous idea - that of coexistence. It’s all about a group of residents that live together harmoniously, each showing respect for the other’s religious and cultural values, and understanding that their lives and destinies are truly interwoven. It represents all that is good in Haifa.You may also want to visit the Stella Maris Carmelite Monastery in Haifa and participate in carol singing and Midnight Mass or Christmas morning mass. It is a beautiful and historic church, dating back to Crusader times and actually associated with the prophet Elijah.So wherever you end up traveling in Israel over this special time of year, drink in the atmosphere, enjoy the lights, music, and festivities, and happy holidays to you!

After the holiday of Easter in Israel, which for Christians is the most important festival in their calendar, Christmas is an incredibly popular time to visit Jerusalem. With dozens of churches in the Old City, near to the Old City and in the neighbourhood of Ein Kerem, there’s no shortage of places to spend this special time of year. And let’s not forget that - located just six kilometres from this holy city - is Bethlehem. Without a doubt, it’s an unforgettable place to celebrate the Christmas holidays.Nativity scene. Photo by Ben White on UnsplashFor sure, Christmas in Jerusalem is a truly unique time of year. Whilst it can be chilly (don’t forget to bring some warm clothes, since it is high in the hills) it’s Old City's Christian and Armenian quarters are filled with beautiful decorations and have a truly festive atmosphere. Other landmarks in the newer part of the city, such as the YMCA, are also fine places to visit since they hold carol concerts and services.And for a little luxury, you can always pop across the way to the elegant King David hotel for a drink at their elegant bar, or a meal in their famed fine-dining restaurant. Nevertheless, most pilgrims tend to congregate inside the walls of the Old City, so let’s take a look at what goes on there.Christmas in Jerusalem - Old City CelebrationsOn Christmas Eve, many Christian pilgrims follow in the footsteps of Jesus, from the spot at which he was tried to the site of his crucifixion and burial (Calvary), located at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. If you are within the walls, you will see them walking the Via Dolorosa in the Old City of Jerusalem and whilst this is something often associated with Easter in Jerusalem (and Good Friday services), it is still very moving procession to watch.Midnight Mass is always held at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the most sacred site for millions of Christians around the world. Dedicated in 336 CE, its lavish interior and extraordinary ambience make it a unique place to attend services. Whether of an Orthodox denomination - Greek, Coptic, Armenian & Syriac - or Roman Catholic - there will be chapels open for prayer and you will be astonished at a large number of candles lit there, only adding to the atmosphere.Christmas tree. Photo by Joanna Kosinska on UnsplashMidnight Mass and the Annual Procession to BethlehemAfter Midnight Mass at the Holy Sepulchre, many pilgrims decide to participate in the Procession led by the Latin Patriarch, which winds its way through Jerusalem’s Old City. Latin Patriarchs are the Catholic episcopal see of Jerusalem and stretch back to the time of Arnulf of Chocques in 1099. After a period of time where they sat in Rome, Pius IX reinstated a Resident Patriarch in Jerusalem in 1847.The procession passes by the Mar Elias Monastery, located in the south of Jerusalem and overlooking Herodion and Bethlehem. Maintained today by the Greek Orthodox church, it is decorated with Byzantine-style paintings depicting biblical scenes and worth a visit in its own right. The procession finally arrives in Bethlehem at around 1 am, passing by Palestinian scouts marching bands parading through Manger Square, bagpipe players, choirs that are carol-singing and an enormous Christmas tree. Pilgrims finally arrive at the Church of Nativity, the spot where Jesus was born in a stable.A fine way to mark this special holiday could also be with a ‘Christmas Eve in Jerusalem and Bethlehem’ tour that culminates with a festive dinner and midnight mass outside the Church of Nativity. Not only will you be able to see landmarks in the city, but you will also eat with your group, close to Manger Square, before partaking in the Midnight Mass.Christmas tree in Bethlehem. Photo credit: © ShutterstockAlternative Services in JerusalemFor those who are less inclined to travel on foot to Bethlehem, there are a number of services at other churches in the city. At midnight, you could attend the Benedectine Dormition Abbey on Mount Zion and sing Christmas carols. Located at the highest point in Jerusalem, it commemorates the spot where Mary died (‘fell asleep’ as the name suggests). Look out for the dome above the statue of Mary - it shows pictures of six women from the Old Testament - Eve, Miriam, Yael, Judith, Ruth and Esther.For protestants, the Christ Church offers fantastic hospitality, beginning around 7 pm with coffee, biscuits and carol singing. After prayer and discussion, there is a Christmas service that begins at around 10.30 pm and lasts until after midnight. The Episcopal St. Anne’s Church, just 200 metres from the Jaffa Gate, also offers services and a popular concert, which tourists love. The Armenian Catholic Church of Our Lady of the Spasm (also known as the Church of Sorrows of Mary) also welcomes visitors.Dormition Abbey, Mount Zion, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © Sofia EmeliyanovaNotre Dame Centre and the YMCAAnother highly recommended spot to celebrate Christmas in Jerusalem is the Notre Dame Centre. This beautiful French cathedral is located opposite the Lions' Gate and was built in the 1880s, to accommodate pilgrims wanting to travel from France to the Holy Land. Constructed on land purchased by the Count of Piellat, its architecture is a fusion of classical and modern - and after decades of construction, a beautiful nave was put in place. (Our tip: arrive early and visit their lovely rooftop restaurant, to enjoy a glass of wine and a cheese plate whilst watching the sunset over the Old City walls).The annual Christmas Eve concert and singalong at Jerusalem’s famous YMCA is always a lovely (and multicultural!) affair, including classical music as well as Christmas carols. Built in 1933 by the American architect Arthur Harmon (who actually designed the Empire State Building) it runs educational and cultural programmes throughout the year and its Youth Choir and tree-lighting ceremony are always a lovely thing to see.(Indeed, even at the height of the COVID pandemic, virtual services took place with a rendition of Ava Maria by the famed Israeli singer Achinoam Nini, as well as songs from the Nutcracker Ballet (accompanied by the Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra).Christmas-inspired concerts can also be heard at the Lutheran Church of Augusta Victoria. Located in the east of the city, on the northern side of the Mount of Olives, it was built at the turn of the century for the city’s German Protestant community who lived, at that time, in Ottoman Palestine.Church of the Holy Sepulchre.Photo credit: © ShutterstockThe Garden Tomb and Ein KeremThe Garden Tomb (always particularly popular with Protestants) is not the first place you might think of visiting in Jerusalem, at this time of the year, but it’s not just a spot of worship for Easter. Located close to the Damascus Gate and believed by some to be the site where Jesus was crucified, buried and resurrected, every year they hold an evening of Christmas carols that are sung in English, Hebrew and Arabic!Finally, for those who care to venture out to Ein Kerem (which means ’Spring of the Vineyard’ in Hebrew) is a charming, lush hillside village, located in the southwest area of the city and famous for its ancient holy sites. These include the Church of the Visitation and the Church of John the Baptist.Christ Church Courtyard in the Old City of Jerusalem.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin

Easter is, by far and away, the most important festival in the Christian calendar, celebrating the events surrounding the crucifixion, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. Being able to spend Easter in Israel is an incredible experience for any visitor, let alone a pilgrim. For Christians, a trip to the Holy Land has no equal, and being able to make a pilgrimage here, particularly at the time of Easter, where Christ’s last days on earth took place, is always very moving and emotional.Easter eggs. Photo by Michal Balog on UnsplashThe actual dates of Easter are not ‘fixed’ (as is the case with Christmas) and the week itself, beginning with Palm Sunday and ending exactly a week later on Easter Sunday, are based on the lunisolar calendar (which is the solar year plus the Moon phase - actually similar to the Hebrew calendar).Whilst the ‘central events’ of the week take place in Jerusalem, both on the Mount of Olives and the Old City, there are many ceremonies that take place across the country, in Haifa, Nazareth, and Jaffa, which are very interesting to watch, as well as participate in. Let's take a closer look at some of the events taking place in these cities to commemorate the last days of Jesus’s life, followed by the jubilant celebrations marking his resurrection.Easter in JerusalemEaster in the Holy Land is a time like no other, and no more so than in Jerusalem, the capital of the Holy Land. In the days preceding Palm Sunday, Jerusalem begins filling up with tourists arriving with Christian tours of Israel, many of whom will not just be witnessing the events but taking part in them personally (having obtained tickets for the Palm Sunday Procession Tour). Easter Sunday in 2022 falls on 17th April, but special services will commence and continue the entire week, commencing on Palm Sunday, on 10th April culminating on Easter Monday on 18th April. If you do decide to attend these celebrations, be prepared for large crowds and a fair bit of pushing and shoving in the Old City, as spectators jostle for the best places to see the view of the processions. Of course, it’s worth it - it’s a moving and often overwhelming experience to be in the city - and walking the Via Dolorosa (the ‘Way of Sorrows’) - where Jesus took his final steps.From Palm Sunday (commemorating the moment Jesus rode into Jerusalem, riding on a donkey), Maundy Thursday (where you can see Priests and Ministers washing the feet of their parishioners, emulating Jesus washing the feet of his disciples) to Good Friday (a solemn experience, to say the least), Holy Saturday (with the extraordinary spectacle of the ceremony of the Holy Fire in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre) and the jubilation that accompanies Easter Sunday (with pilgrims crying out ‘Christ is Risen), this will be a week you will never forget. For more of an in-depth look at what happens in Jerusalem at this time, take a look at our article ‘Easter in Jerusalem.’Via Dolorosa, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © ShutterstockEaster in Tel Aviv-JaffaThere are several churches - both Protestant and Catholic - in Jaffa, (which sits next to Tel Aviv) and events celebrating Easter week are held throughout the week at Tel Aviv’s largest Catholic and Protestant Churches, based in Jaffa in the South of the city.St. Peter’s Church - there are services held in English, Polish, Spanish, and Hebrew on Holy Thursday, Good Friday, the Easter Vigil, and Easter Sunday. This is a Franciscan church that sits at the top of the Jaffa hill (which has served as a strategic point for thousands of years). The church is large and beautiful, built at the beginning of the 20th century in baroque style. According to historians, Napoleon stayed here during his 1799 campaign. The church faces towards the Mediterranean Sea and on the walls are paintings depicting the fourteen Stations of the Cross that Jesus trod, en route to Calvary on the day of his crucifixion. St Anthony’s Church - this Franciscan Catholic church, located on Yefet Street, is built in a Gothic revival style and is noticeable because of its bell tower. Built in 1932, it is Jaffa's largest church and has an active community. Easter Services are held in English, Arabic, and Philippine throughout the week. St. Anthony's overlooks the harbor and many of its nuns, in the past, worked in the nearby French hospital. Today, the church is popular with migrant workers, especially those from Asia, and the priest is said to be very welcoming.The Immanuel Church in Jaffa is of the Protestant denomination. It was built in 1904 to serve the local German Evangelical community but after 1940 it remained empty, until 1955 when the building was transferred to the control of the Norweigan Church Ministry. Today, it is popular with different Protestant groups but also used by Messianic Jews. Over Easter, services and concerts are held continuously - for more specific information, check their Facebook page.St. Peter’s Church, Jaffa. Photo by Jeremy Zero on UnsplashEaster in NazarethNazareth holds a special place in the hearts of Christians since it was the city where Jesus spent much of his childhood. There is a number ofNazareth churches, all of which celebrate Easter in their own style.The Basilica of the Annunciation - According to Catholic tradition, this was the spot at which the Angel Gabriel appeared before Mary and announced that she would bear a child (i.e. Jesus). Built in 1958, over the remains of what were once Byzantine and Crusader houses of worship, today, it is the largest Catholic church in the Middle East. Inside, there are beautiful mosaics of Jesus and Mary, located in the portico, as well as a spiral staircase at the top of which is a beautiful Dome.Over Holy Week, a number of services are held including mass, reconciliation, and solemn prayer, as well as an Easter Vigil and sunrise service. When the church is at capacity, it is even possible to follow on live stream!Interior of the Church of the Annunciation, Nazareth.Photo credit: © ShutterstockSt. Gabriel’s Church - Also known as the Greek Orthodox Church of Annunciation, it is of Eastern Orthodox origin and is located in downtown Nazareth and is the largest Christian church in the East. Built in a modern style, Inside it boasts beautiful stained glass murals and lovely murals. Its old stone steps lead down to a beautiful spring. Holy Week is celebrated at St. Gabriel’s with prayers, homilies, services, and a Vigil.In Nazareth, visitors can walk through the city’s alleyways on Palm Sunday, accompanying the local residents and many other devout Christians in a procession. What is very nice is the special musical compositions that are played at this time. Easter week in this northern Israel city is a good example of how Easter is celebrated as a colorful grassroots religious festival.Easter in HaifaHaifa is actually home to a number of Christian communities and any visitor spending time there over Easter will be able to enjoy the traditional procession there, where locals and pilgrims walk through the streets, waving palm leaves and passing by the city’s churches. The annual procession begins at the St. Elias Greek Orthodox Church. This Melkite Cathedral was designed by architect Sammihom Atallah and built between 1938 and 1939. It then continues onto St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, administered by the Carmelites, and members of this congregation join the procession at this point. It then passes by the Latin Church (looked after by three Carmelite friars), moves onto the St. Luke Maronite Church, and concludes at the New Orthodox Church.Haifa aerial view.Photo by Shai Pal on UnsplashEaster in BethlehemBethlehem is a special place for Christians, being the birthplace of Jesus. Holy Week there, as everywhere else, begins on Palm Sunday and ends on Easter Sunday, during which quite a number of church services and religious processions are held. The three most special days before Easter Sunday are Maundy Thursday (when Jesus practiced humility by washing the feet of his disciples). Good Friday (the date Jesus walked to his death, through the Old City, to Calvary (Golgotha) where he was crucified, and also Holy Saturday (known locally as Sabt El Nour). Then, religious communities are given candles lit by a ‘Holy Light’ which has traveled all the way from the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem.During the Roman Catholic Holy Saturday, crowds gather in Bethlehem at the entrance to Star Street to welcome the large procession, which moves down to the Catholic Church of the Annunciation (also known as Al Bishara). Moreover, at the time of the Greek Orthodox Easter (which can be up to a week or so later), you will always see crowds standing at the city square in Beit Sahour and at Al Sahel Street in Beit Jala, ready to welcome the procession arriving from Jerusalem. As day turns to night, an Easter Vigil will begin and will continue for many hours. The following day, of course, is Easter Sunday and is marked at every Church in Bethlehem, including the Nativity Church and the Church of St. Catherine with sunrise services and enormous celebrations. To explore Bethlehem it is recommended to join one of numerous Bethlehem tours.Church of Saint Catherine, Bethlehem.Photo credit: © Shutterstock

Jerusalem is one of the world’s great cities and home to three major world religions - Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. The city is packed full of holy sites, making it a popular pilgrimage destination for thousands of people. Here, we look at some of the most important holy sites to these three religions, and what makes them so special to their followers.The Wailing Wall, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © ShutterstockChristian Holy Sites in JerusalemMultiple DenominationalHoly Sites in Jerusalem1. Church of the Holy Sepulchre - The place at which Jesus’s crucifixion, burial and resurrection took place, this magnificent ancient church is one of the holiest sites for Christian pilgrims. Erected by Constantine the Great in 326 AD, it contains the tomb of Jesus, the anointing stone and Golgotha itself.It is overseen jointly by the Greek Orthodox, Armenian Apostolic and Roman Catholic according to a complicated ruling named ‘the Status Quo’. Since the 7th century, the Muslim Nusaybah family has been the impartial doorkeeper, using a key made of iron, which is 30 cms long. This enormous structure can hold up to 8.000 people. Its bell tower dates back to the 12th century.2. Tomb of the Virgin Mary - At the bottom of the Mount of Olives, nestled in the Kidron Valley, Christians from both the Eastern Orthodox and Roman Catholic denominations believe that this is the burial place of Jesus’s mother, Mary.Catholic (Roman and Eastern)Holy Sites in Jerusalem3. Church of All Nations- This is thought to be the place at which Jesus prayed before he was arrested by the Romans. Inside you can see gold mosaics, depicting his despair. Its round dome and Corinthian columns let you know this was once a Byzantine structure. 4. Garden of Gethsemane - In Christian history, this garden is loaded with meaning as it is apparently the spot at which he prayed to God before being arrested by the Romans. Gethsemane means ‘olive press’ in Aramaic and the garden has several olive trees. It is located at the foot of the Mount of Olives.Church of the Holy Sepulchre.Photo credit: © Shutterstock5. St Anne's Church - Built on the ruins of a Byzantine church, this Crusader-era church is located near the Lion’s Gate. Its thick walls liken it to a fortress and It has a simple interior with an asymmetrical design and cross-vaulted ceilings. Today, it belongs to the French government and is managed by the ‘White Fathers.’6. Church of St. Peter in Gallicantu - This Roman Catholic church can be found just outside the Old City Walls, on the slopes of Mount Zion. In Latin, ‘Gallicantu’ means ‘cock-crow which harks back to the Disciple Peter’s rejection of Jesus (‘before the cock crows’ - Gospel of Mark). Today, visitors can see a golden rooster perched at the top of the sanctuary, reminding them of this biblical passage. 7. Church of the Pater Noster - Dating back to the time of Emperor Constantine, and found on the Mount of Olives, according to tradition this is where Jesus taught his disciples the Lord’s Prayer. ‘Pater Noster’ in Latin means ‘Our Father’ and inside this Carmelite church, that credo is painted on ceramic tiles, in different colours and writing styles, in 130 languages.8. Dormition Abbey - Situated on Mount Zion, just outside the Old City walls, this distinctive 5th-century Benedictine structure is renowned for its round dome and lovely mosaic floor. Due to its size, it is one of Jerusalem’s most prominent churches; moreover, tradition says that it was on this spot that the Virgin Mary died. 9. Via Dolorosa - In Latin, ‘Via Dolorosa’ means ‘the Way of Sorrows’ and this historic route through the Old City is indeed laden with sorrow, as it commemorates Jesus’s walk towards his crucifixion. Along the way, there are ‘Stations of the Cross’ where he stopped to rest and each Easter, on Good Friday, thousands of Christian pilgrims retrace his steps, culminating at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. The route is also commemorated each Friday afternoon by the Catholic church.10. Dominus Flevit Church - This Franciscan church on the Mount of Olives is known for its beautiful window which gives visitors an astonishing view of the Old City. Designed by Antonio Barluzzi, an Italian architect, it is shaped like a teardrop, to symbolise the grief of Christ. Dominus Flevit, in Latin, means ‘ The Lord Wept’.Dominus Flevit Church.Photo credit: © ShutterstockOrthodox Holy Sites in Jerusalem1. Church of St. Alexander Nevsky - Built over the remains over what is believed to have been the ‘Judgement Gate’ where Jesus passed, en route to his crucifixion, this Russian Orthodox Church was built between 1896-1903 and named after the Russian military leader Nevsky.2. Convent of the Ascension - located at the highest point of the Mount of Olives, this Byzantine-style church was built in 1870 and has a prominent bell tower and olive groves. Nearby is the Chapel of John the Baptist, with an ancient mosaic floor, commemorating the actual place that his head was found. 3. Cathedral of St. James - This 12th century Armenian Apostolic Church is located inside the Old City and is dedicated to two saints - St. James the Great and St. James the Less. It has an ornate interior decorated with gilded altars, paintings and mosaics. 4. "Deir es-Sultan" - This Coptic Orthodox Monastery is situated on the rooftop of the Helena Chapel in Holy Sepulchre, in the Old City’s Christian Quarter. The site’s heritage is contested by the Ethiopian Church and arguments continue to this day as to which denomination retains ultimate control.5. Saint Mark’s Monastery - This Syriac Orthodox monastery and church is believed to have been the place where the Last Supper of Christ and his disciples took place. The relics of many saints can be found inside.Candles in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinProtestantHoly Sites in Jerusalem1. The Garden Tomb - This non-denominational site is particularly popular with Anglicans and Evangelicals as a possible location for the crucifixion, burial and resurrection of Jesus. Close to the Damascus Gate, this pretty garden was unearthed in 1867 and holds an empty ancient tomb.2. Church of the Ascension at the German Augusta Victoria Foundation - This German Evangelical Church stands at the highest point in Jerusalem - almost 850 metres above sea level - and was dedicated in 1910 at the request of Kaiser Wilhelm. Built in the "Wilhelminian-Byzantine style" it contains beautiful ceiling paintings and mosaics. 3. Lutheran Church of the Redeemer - The second Protestant Church in Jerusalem, this German Evangelical Church was built on land given to King William I of Prussia and dedicated on Reformation Day in 1898. It was built in a neo-Romanesque style and has a simple interior.4. St. George's Cathedral - This Anglican/Episcopal church is located in Sheik Jarrah, East Jerusalem, close to the Garden Tomb, It was built by the fourth bishop of the diocese, George Blyth.5. St Andrew's, aka the Scottish Church - As part of the Church of Scotland, St. Andrews was built as a memorial to Scottish soldiers killed fighting the Turks in World War I. As well as running a guesthouse (with its famous Scottish breakfast) the Church of Scotland oversees the running of the Tabeetha school in Jaffa and the Scots Hotel in Tiberias.The Garden Tomb. Photo credit: © Dan PorgesJewishHoly Sites in Jerusalem1. Tomb of King David - One of the most sacred sites for Jews, the tradition that says King David was buried here dates back to the 9th century. Located on Mount Zion, today it is run on a ‘synagogue model’ with the tombstone in the interior room. There are separate entrances for men and women and the rooftop is an excellent observational point.2. Mount of Olives Jewish Cemetery- Situated on the Mount of Olives, this noble cemetery is over 500 years old and between 70.0000 and 140,000 people are buried here, including notable Zionist leaders and rabbis. It also contains the tombs of three prophets Haggai, Zechariah and Malachi. Jews come from across the globe to pray and pay respects at this cemetery.3. Western Wall - The Western Wall (‘Kotel’ in Hebrew) is the last remaining structure of the Second Temple and a place of extraordinary religious, historical and emotional significance to Jews. An open plaza, men and women pray there (in separate sections) and across the world, Jews continue to pray in its direction. Made of huge quarried stone, its structure is smoothed and chiselled.4. Temple Mount- According to Jewish tradition, this is where previous temples were built and where the Third Temple will, one day, be built. It is the holiest site for Jews who turn this way in prayer. It is also a hotly contested site, between Jews and Muslims and often a flashpoint for outbreaks of violence. Inside is the Foundation Stone, and according to Jewish sages, it was from this rock that the world was created. 5. Cave of the Ramban - Located in the Kidron Valley, this cave is believed by some Jews to be the traditional resting place of Nahmanides (also known as the Ramban) who was a distinguished scholar in the Middle Ages. The Kidron Valley, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © ShutterstockIslamic Holy Sites in JerusalemThe Arabic name for Jerusalem is 'Al Quds' which means 'the Holy One'. Its holiest shrines include:1. Haram ash-Sharif- The Temple Mount complex is extremely holy to Muslims, as it is thought to have been the place Mohammed made his ‘Night Journey’ flying over Jerusalem en route to Mecca. It contains the Al-Aqsa Mosque (which is characteristic of early Islamic architecture) the Dome of the Rock (the first Muslim masterpiece, built in 687 CE and is a prominent theme in Islamic Art) and the Well of Souls (Islamic tradition believes that on Judgement day, this is the place that the spirits of the dead will come). It also houses the Dome of the Chain (where the Last Judgement will take pale, with a chain allowing passage only to the righteous and turning away sinners) the Fountain of Qayt Bay - a beautiful structure with stone carvings and intricate calligraphy - and Madrasa al-Ashrafiyya, an Islamic madrasa built in 1480, in Mamluk style.2. Al-Khanqah al-Salahiyya Mosque - Located in the Christian Quarter of the Old City, this sits on the former sites of the Latin Patriarch. After the Crusaders surrendered to Saladin in 1187, it was transformed into a mosque and a minaret was subsequently built in 1417. The mosque's facade is beautiful and decorated with stones that are a feature of the Mamluk architectural style of that time (a combination of black and white stones).3. Al-Yaqubi Mosque - Once the Crusader Church of St. James Intercisus, this building was transformed into a mosque after 1187, when Saladin captured the city. Situated close to the Jaffa Gate, this small building is named after Sheik Yaquob al-Ajami - lookout for the lovely enamel name plaque on the wall. 4. Mosque of Omar - Next to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, in the Christian Quarter, is the Mosque of Omar, which is easily noticed by a 15-metre high minaret. The building was erected to mark the spot where Caliph Omar prayed since he would not enter a Christian church. The mosque was renovated in the 19th century, after an earthquake in 1458.5. Dome of Ascension - Located close to the Dome of the Rock, this free-standing dome denotes the spot where Mohammed, Islam’s greatest prophet, ascended to heaven. The dome is covered with marble slabs but what makes it really noticeable is that, above it, is a small dome in the shape of a crown. The Dome of Ascension is also part of Mohammed’s ‘Night Journey’ when he flew across the sky, passing Jerusalem, en route to Mecca.Dome of the Rock, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © Shutterstock

Whether the connection is religious, literary, biblical or political, many a famous historical figure has come out of the land of Israel - both from the pages of the Bible (thousands of years ago) and more contemporary times. ‘The Jewish People’ - after all - have been around from the time of Abraham, which is some history!David Playing the Harp Before Saul, Mount Zion, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © ShutterstockIsrael is particularly astonishing - when you think about it - because the Jews who live there are speaking the same language, living in the same land, and worshipping the same God from thousands of years ago. No wonder then taking a vacation to Israel is so popular - it is a way of seeing for yourself the continuing of a rich cultural tradition that has passed down through endless generations.Here, we look at some well-known characters that every Israeli child learns about in first grade - both from biblical times and in the history of modern-day Israel. Each one of them, in their own exceptional way, played their part in making an enormous contribution to the country that exists today. That’s also why Israel has a tradition of naming streets, squares, highways, bridges, museums, and even scientific institutes after them. Yes, this is very common and it’s something quite extremely noticeable when you’re traveling in Israel, whether on a tour of Jerusalem, exploring Tel Aviv and Jaffa, or even just wandering around small towns in the Galilee or Negev desert. Without further ado, let’s take a look:Tourist at Mount Scopus observation point, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © Shutterstock1. King David, the legendary great from Israeli historyKing David was the Second King of Israel, who founded the Judean dynasty. Under his rule, all the tribes were united, which is why his rule is often looked back on as a ‘Golden era’. Born to humble origins (a shepherd boy) he killed Goliath with nothing more than a slingshot and a stone and, according to the Hebrew Bible, since being anointed by Samuel was protected from harm by God himself.There are numerous references to David today, in Jerusalem, including the Tower of David, King David’s Tomb, and the 3,000-year-old underground City of David. The Bridge of Chords (which you will see, as you drive into Jerusalem) is an architectural masterpiece, deliberately shaped to look like King David’s harp - the cables being the strings. An excellent way to explore King David's Jerusalem is with a City of David Jerusalem Tour.2. King Solomon, the most famous Israeli historical personalityBoth wealthy and wise, King Solomon came to the throne after his father David, in around 970 BCE. According to the Hebrew Bible, he was responsible for the building of the First Temple in Jerusalem, which he dedicated to the God Yahweh. After this, he is said to have erected many other important buildings in the city, including a Royal Palace.The First Temple was eventually destroyed by the Babylonians, razed to the ground in 587/586 BCE. Today, even after archaeological excavations, little remains (it is probably buried under the Western Wall) but the entire area, including Jerusalem Temple Mount and Dome of the Rock (extremely holy both to Jews and Muslims) can be visited in the course of the Jerusalem Temple Mount & Dome of the Rock Tour.Entrance to King David's Tomb, Mount Zion, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © Shutterstock3. Judas MaccabeusJudas Maccabeus (also spelled ‘Judah Maccabee’) was a Jewish Priest who led a revolt against an invasion by King Antioch IV, to prevent the imposition of Hellenism in what was then Judea, therefore reconsecrating the Temple and helping preserve the Jewish religion. This great military deed of his is remembered by Jews each year when celebrating Hanukkah - the ‘Festival of Lights’.Many things today in Israel remind us of him - the football teams named after him, the Maccabi health fund (which ensures millions of Israelis), and the Maccabiah games - a kind of ‘Jewish Olympics.’ To learn more about Judas, and his brave Maccabean followers, it’s really worth taking a tour of Masada the ancient desert fortress at which the Jews made a last, brave stand against the Romans. 4. JosephusTitus Flavius Josephus was born in Jerusalem in 37 CE to a family of noble lineage - his father was descended from Priests and his mother claimed Royal ancestry. Initially fighting against the Romans in the Galilee, the First Jewish-Roman War, he later defected to the Romans and was granted citizenship by them.Josephus’ most famous work was ‘The Jewish War’ where he recounts in brilliant detail the manner in which the Jews revolted. For scholars, these writings are a valuable insight into first-century Judaism and also early Christianity. They give great context for anyone seeking to understand more about the revolt at Masada and the Dead Sea Scrolls, as well as Jewish customs and life inside the Temple. Masada National Park, Herod's Palace Complex.Photo credit: © Shutterstock5. Herod the Great King Herod 1 (also known as Herod the Great) was a Roman King who is known for his enormous building projects throughout Judea, in particular the erection of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. Details of his life are recorded by Josephus (see above) and in the Gospel of Matthew, in the Christian Bible, it is said that he was directly responsible for the massacre of thousands of baby boys at the time of the birth of Jesus.Herodian architecture is everywhere in Israel, including famous sites such as the Western Wall, the ancient port of Caesarea, Herodion, the Tomb of the Patriarchs in Hebron, Masada, and temples dedicated to Augustus (at Sebastia, Caesarea, and Banias). For any history buff or lover of archaeology, you couldn’t do better than to take out In the Footsteps of Herod Private Tour.6. John the BaptistJohn the Baptist was a Jewish prophet, born in 1 BCE and quite possibly a member of the Essene sect. Said to have lived on wild honey and locusts, he preached widely about the final judgment of God and was responsible for the baptism of many ‘repenters.’ Even though Jesuswas technically sinless (as the Son of God) John baptized him and many Christians believe that this ritual filled Jesus with the Holy Spirit.Today, Christian pilgrims flock to Yardenit - Israel’s most famous baptismal site - located on the shores of the Sea of Galilee and next to the River Jordan - to undergo this sacred ritual personally. Bein Harims also offers a tour of Nazareth and Galilee, which is an ideal way to learn more about the life and times of Jesus. There is also the possibility of visiting the more intimate baptismal site of Qasr al-Yahud, as part of a tour of Jericho and the Dead Sea area.The ruins of King Herod's bathrooms in Herodion, West Bank.Photo credit: © Shutterstock7. Jesus of NazarethDoes Jesus really need an introduction? The central figure in the Christian religion, whether you believe he was the Son of God or just a radical preacher who was condemned to death for heresy, he’s a central figure in the Holy Land and reminders of his remarkable life and times surround you, whichever way you turn. Many tourists in Jerusalem choose to walk in the footsteps of Jesus, retracing his steps in the last week before his death, exploring landmarks such as the Garden of Gethsemane, the Via Dolorosa, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. It’s also possible to take a tour of Bethlehem (his birthplace) or travel north and explore both Nazareth (where he spent his early years) and Galilee, where he found his disciples and ministered to crowds. You don’t have to be religious to be fascinated by this man’s extraordinary life.Gethsemane Garden, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © Shutterstock8. Pontius PilatePontius Pilate was the fifth governor of the Roman province of Judea, at the time of Jesus’ death. Little is known about his early years, or how he rose to prominence. He is known best for being the official who presided over Jesus’s trial and subsequently ordered that he be put to death, by way of crucifixion. The Christian Bible often represents Pilate as being ambivalent - even reluctant - about his actions in condemning Jesus (pointing to the fact that he asked the crowd their wishes and then washed his hands i.e. absolving himself from his actions). Today, he is venerated by the Ethiopian Church as a saint.The Praetorium (buried underneath an Ottoman prison, the Kishle, next to the Tower of David) is thought by archaeologists to be the place where Pilate made his famous decision and can easily be explored on any private tour of Jerusalem.Kishle, the Possible Site of Jesus’ Trial, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin9. David Ben-GurionDavid Ben Gurion was Israel’s first Prime Minister after it became an independent state widely regarded as one of its ‘founding fathers’ of the state. It was Ben Gurion who proclaimed the Declaration of Independence, in Tel Aviv, in 1948 and who oversaw the absorption of huge numbers of Jews in the early years of Israel’s existence.Ben Gurion served as Prime Minister and Defence Minister of Israel for many years. During this time, he lived in Tel Aviv, in a small unassuming house, which today is a museum showcasing his life. Filled with books, it gives an indication of just how learned he was. In 1970, he moved to the Kibbutz Sde Boker, in the Negev desert, since he had a deep belief that Zionism entailed settling barren areas. He is buried there and his grave in kibbutz Sde Boker and Ben Gurion's house in Tel Aviv can be easily visited. 10. Teddy KollekTeddy Kollek was an Israeli politician who famously served as Mayor of Jerusalem between 1965 and 1993. The old adage about him was that he was ‘the greatest builder in Jerusalem since Herod’ because of his interest in redeveloping and modernizing the city.Kollek dedicated himself to many cultural projects, particularly those relating to the Israel Museum and Jerusalem Biblical Zoo (today, two ofJerusalem’s most visited attractions).Jerusalem Biblical Zoo.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin11. Theodor HerzlTheodor Herzl was not just a journalist and playwright, but also the father of modern Zionism. Born in Budapest, he moved to Paris at the end of the 19th century, and witnessing the aftermath of the scandalous ‘Dreyfus Affair’ convinced him that the only way for Jews to avoid anti-semitism was to create a Jewish state. From this point on, Herzl devoted himself to this vision, visiting Jerusalem finally in 1898. Herzl never lived to see his dream realized, dying in 1904, but Israel celebrates him annually with ‘Herzl Day’ in the Hebrew month of Iyar. Mount Herzl in Jerusalem whereTheodor Herzl is buried and the town of Herzliya with its beautiful marina are named after him.12. Meir DizengoffMeir Dizengoff was born in Russia in 1881 and was one of the early Zionist leaders of his day. A great advocate of establishing Jewish communities in Palestine, particularly Tel Aviv, he was widely regarded as a great leader at that time and many world leaders (including Winston Churchill) who visited Palestine were impressed by him. He was actually one of the families who founded Tel Aviv, on its sand dunes, in 1909.Dizengoff later became Mayor of the city and kept that office until just before he died. Today, Tel Aviv’s largest street is named after him - running through the heart of the city, Dizengoff Street is famous for its cafes, restaurants, boutiques, and 24/7 activity. His home was the spot at which Ben Gurion made his famous declaration and today is a history museum known as theHall of Independence. It can be visited with some of Tel Aviv tours.The Hall of Independence, Tel Aviv. Photo credit: © Shutterstock13. Yitzhak RabinYitzhak Rabin was a military leader, politician, and statesman, who became famous in Israel as the Labour Leader who signed the Oslo Accords, in conjunction with Yasser Arafat’s PLO, and was, soon after, assassinated by a radical right-wing Jew. Rabin was Chief of the Southern Front in the 1948 War of Independence in 1948, and in 1964 was appointed Chief of Staff of the Israeli Army. In 1994, a year before his murder, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.Tel Aviv’s famous central square was afterward renamed Yitzhak Rabin Square and in 2005, ten years after his death, the Yitzhak Rabin Center was inaugurated. Part of this is a museum that explores the history of Israeli society, using Rabin as a connecting theme.14. Yigal AllonYigal Allon was an Israeli military leader who, after a celebrated career, became a Labour politician. He is well-known as the architect of the ‘Allon Plan’ which was a peace initiative formed by him in 1967, after Israeli captured territories in the Six-Day War. The Yigal Allon Museum, at Kibbutz Ginosar in Galilee, is open to visitors and a major highway in Israel is also named after him.15. Chaim WeizmannBorn in Russia, Chaim Weizmann was the President of the Zionist Organisation and then the first President of the State of Israel. It was Weizmann who was widely acknowledged as being the person who persuaded the USA to recognize Israel, after its establishment in 1948. A biochemist by profession, the Weizmann Institute in Rehovot - is today, a worldwide leader in scientific research and an excellent tribute to him.Tel Aviv City Hall with rainbow flag projection, Rabin Square. Photo credit: © Shutterstock

The land of Israel (‘known as ‘Eretz Yisrael’ in Hebrew) may be the homeland of the Jewish people, but it is also home to Baha'i Faith followers, Christians and Muslims. Many of the ancient landmarks in the country are holy to them too, so let’s take a look at some of Israel's holy sites, and see what significance they have to their respective pilgrims:The Western Wall and the Dome of the Rock.Photo credit: © ShutterstockJerusalem Christian Holy SitesMulti-denominationalChristian holy sites in Jerusalem1. Church of the Holy Sepulchre - Famous for being the place at which Christ was crucified, buried, and resurrected, this site was built by Constantine the Great in 326 CE. In the heart of the Old City, Its magnificent interior contains the tomb of Jesus, the anointing stone, and Calvary itself (with two chapels, one in which visitors can view the Rock of Golgotha). It is regarded by all Christian denominations as an extremely sacred site.2. Tomb of the Virgin Mary - Located in the Kidron Valley, at the bottom of the Mount of Olives, this is believed by Roman Catholics and the Eastern Orthodox to be the burial place of Mary, the mother of Jesus.3. Church of All Nations- The Church of All Nations (also known as the Basilica of Agony) is a prominent Roman Catholic church perched on the Mount of Olives. Its interior is lined with golden mosaics depicting the suffering of Jesus and it is said that this is the spot at which Jesus prayed, before his arrest by the Romans. Its distinctive dome and Corinthian columns hint at its Byzantine heritage.4. Dormition Abbey - Built in the 5th century, this Benedictine community lies on Mount Zion, just outside the Old City. It was on this spot - according to tradition - that the Virgin Mary died.5. Garden of Gethsemane - This garden has great significance in the Christian tradition, as it is supposedly the place where Jesus prayed before his arrest and subsequent crucifixion. Gethsemane (which means ‘olive press’ in Aramaic) has several olive trees in its garden.Church of all Nations, Mt. Olives, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © Shutterstock6. Via Dolorosa - This processional route, known as the Sorrowful Way, passes through the Old City, tracing the path that Jesus is thought to have walked en route to his crucifixion. Stations of the Cross mark certain events along the route and each Easter, on Good Friday, thousands retrace the path. Eastern Orthodoxholy sites in Jerusalem7. Church of St Alexander Nevsky – this Russian Orthodox Church is built over the remains of what historians believe was the ‘Judgment Gate’ where Jesus passed on his way to Calvary.Oriental Orthodoxholy sites in Jerusalem8. Cathedral of St. James - This 12th-century Armenian church lies near the Zion Gate and was constructed in 1163 during the reign of Queen Melisende. According to tradition, in its walls is buried the head of St James the Great and the body of St James the Less.Protestantholy sites in Jerusalem9. Lutheran Church of the Redeemer - This Evangelical church is of part German heritage and was founded in 1898 in the presence of Kaiser Wilhelm II. The church has a prominent bell tower and visitors walking up the circular staircase are afforded astonishing views of Jerusalem at forty meters. 10. The Garden Tomb - popular with Evangelical and Anglicans, the Garden Tomb is a non-denominational site with a rock-cut tomb. Located just outside the Old City Walls, some Protestants consider it to be the site of the burial and resurrection of Jesus.To see the complete list of holy sites in Jerusalem feel free to read this article.The Lutheran Church of the Redeemer. Photo credit: ©Jenny EhrlichGalilee and Northern Israel Christian Holy Sites1.The Jordan River - The Jordan River has great significance in the Bible as it is the border of the land that God gives to the Israelites. Flowing through the Sea of Galilee and down to the Dead Sea, it is not just a boundary and a crossing but, in Christian terms, a metaphor for rebirth and salvation. Today, pilgrims around the world come to be baptized here (see Yardenitbelow).2. Nazareth - This famous town is home to the Church of the Annunciation, which was built on the spot where the Virgin Mary was visited by the Angel Gabriel. This breathtaking Basilica is 50 meters high and home to the Grotto of the Annunciation and Mary’s Well, where Mary was told she was going to give birth to the son of God, Jesus.3. Cana - This small village in Galilee is the spot where, according to the Gospel of John, Jesus turned water into wine at the marriage celebration of a poor couple.4. Mount Tabor - Mount Tabor is widely regarded as the site of the Transfiguration of Jesus as, according to the Gospels, this was the place that Jesus was ‘transformed into light’ and spoke to Moses and Elijah the Prophet.5. Tsipori - According to tradition, this spot - close to Nazareth - was the original home of Mary’s parents, Joachim and Anne. It is also the place at which Joseph and Mary settled with Jesus, on return from Egypt.Sea of Galilee. Photo credit: © Shutterstock6. Sea of Galilee - This famous spot is where Jesus calmed a terrible storm, walked upon the water, and caught large numbers of fish. Jesus preached here for much of his adult life and recruited his disciples, who were fishermen, from the area.7. Capernaum - On the shores of the Sea of Galilee, this town was a center for the activities of Jesus and his second home - he performed several miracles here (including healing a paralyzed man) and also visited the synagogue.8. Tabgha - This ancient church dates back to Byzantine times and is full of astonishing mosaics that show plants, animals, and geometric patterns. It is famed for being the place at which Jesus performed a miracle, transforming 2 fishes and 5 loaves into food for 5,000 people.9. The Mount of Beatitudes - Situated on Mount Eremos, this is believed to have been the spot at which Jesus gave his Sermon on Mount. Its Roman Catholic Franciscan chapel has a marble veneer and gold mosaic in its dome. 10. Yardenit Baptismal Site - Yardenit lies on the banks of the Jordan River and some Christians believe that this was the site at which Jesus was baptized. Today, thousands of pilgrims come here to be ‘reborn’ in its waters.Capernaum, the town of Jesus.Photo credit: © ShutterstockJewish Holy Sites in Israel1. Tomb of King David - Located near the Zion Gate in the Old City, near the Abbey of the Dormition, this is one of the top Jewish holy sites in Jerusalem, as it is regarded as the burial place of King David. 2. Mount of Olives Jewish Cemetery - The Mount of Olives is home to an extraordinary Jewish Cemetery, which is over 500 years old and contains somewhere between 70,000 and 140,000 tombs with many notable rabbis and zionist leaders buried there. It also contains the tombs of three prophets Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi, and pilgrims have come to pray there since the Middle Ages.3. Western Wall - The Western Wall (in Hebrew, the Kotel) is the last remaining wall dating back to the time of the Second Temple (the era of King Herod) and an extremely holy place for Jews, who come from around the world to pray and ask for blessings from God. Today it stands at 19 meters and its largest stone weighs 570 tonnes!4. Mount Meron - Mount Meron, in Galilee, is home to the tomb of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai. Each year, at the time of the Jewish festival of Lag B’Omer, tens of thousands of Jews come here as part of a pilgrimage, to pray at his burial site. 5. Tomb of Rabban Gamaliel of Yavne - Yavne is home to the tomb of Rabbi Gamaliel who, according to Jewish philosophy, was a great sage whose greatest achievement was ending the theological arguments that distinguished the houses of Shammai and Hillel. Mount of Olives Jewish Cemetery.Photo credit: © Dan Porges6. Mount Betarim - one of the peaks of Mount Dov (otherwise known as"Jabal Ross"), according to one Jewish tradition this is the site of the covenant of the pieces between Abraham and God.7. Katzrin Talmudic villageand Synagogue - This Jewish village in northern Israel contains an ancient synagogue that dates back to the 6th century but was destroyed around the time of 749, in an earthquake that struck northern Israel. The village and prayer house are now part of an open-air museum.8. Safed - According to Jewish tradition, Safed, a town in the north of Israel, was founded by one of Noah’s sons, after the Great Flood. It became a holy city after the Jews were expelled from Spain in 1492 and arrived here. Safed today is known as a center for the study of Kabbalah (a mystical Jewish philosophy) and has a cemetery of notable interest.9. Beit Alpha Synagogue - Situated in the Gilboa, this ancient synagogue contains a particularly beautiful floor mosaic, depicting different scenes, including a Zodiac Wheel, a synagogue scene, and the biblical scene where Abraham prepares to sacrifice his son Isaac. Inscriptions in Aramaic and Greek are above the entrance and on either side are a lion and buffalo (the ‘guardians;) of this prayer house. 10. Tiberias- Tiberias, with theTomb of Maimonidesand Tomb of the Matriarchs, historically, is one of Israel’s four holy cities (the other three being Jerusalem, Hebron, and Safed). Founded in 20 CE by Herod the Great’s son, it sits at the edge of the Sea of Galilee and is the spot at which the Jerusalem Talmud was written.To see the complete list of Jewish holy sites in Israelfeel free to read this article.Remnants of Talmudic village in Katzrin.Photo credit: © ShutterstockIslamic Holy Sites in Israel1. Temple Mount - Also known as Haram al-Sharif, this Jerusalem site is home both to the Dome of the Rock and the Al Aqsa mosque, the third holiest shrine in Islam.2. Al-Aqsa Mosque - Muslims believe that this was the spot the Prophet Mohammed flew over, on his ‘Night Journey’ en route to Mecca. Underneath it is the Al-Qibli Chapel, a Muslim prayer hall.3. Dome of the Rock - The Dome of the Rock is located on the Temple Mount and, as well as being a holy shrine, is one of the oldest examples of Islamic architecture. Its distinctive gold-plated Dome can be seen across Jerusalem. The Well of Souls or Holy of Holies is a partly natural, partly man-made cave situated inside the rock. 4. Dome of the Chain - This domed and free-standing building is located east of the Dome of the Rock and was built between 681-692 CE by the Umayyads.5. Mosque of Omar - Located next to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, this mosque was built in the 12th century on the site where Caliph Omar Ibn al-Khattab accepted the city's surrender from the Byzantines. Its 15-meter high minaret was built in 1465 by the Mamluks.Dome of the Rock, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © Shutterstock6. Dome of Ascension, Jerusalem - Situated close to the dome of the rock, in Islamic tradition this free-standing dome commemorates the Prophet Mohammed’s ascension to heaven.7. Al-Khanqah al-Salahiyya Mosque - Situated on what was the former palace of the Latin Patriarch, this building became a mosque after the Crusader’s surrender of Jerusalem to Saladin in 1181. A minaret was added in 1417.8. Al-Yaqubi Mosque - Once the Crusader Church of St. James Intercisus, this building was transformed into a mosque when Jerusalem fell to Saladin. It is situated close to the Jaffa Gate.9. White Mosque - Built in the 8th century, in Ramle, by the Umayyads, all that remains of the White Mosque today is a minaret, According to Islamic tradition, this mosque contained the shrine of the prophet Nabi Salih.10. Al Jazzar Mosque, Acre - Archaeologists believe that the entrance door’s inscription means the mosque was founded around 1781 AD. Outside of Jerusalem, it is Israel’s largest mosque today and is also known as the Pasha Mosque.Bahai Holy Sites in Israel1. Baha'i Gardens, Acre - this site in Acre marks the tomb of the founder, Baha' Allah, considered to be a prophet of the Baha'i faith. As such, it is the holiest place for members of the Baha'i people.2. Baha'i Shrine & Gardens, Haifa - this shrine, and the fantastically beautiful gardens surrounding it, was built as a memorial to one of the Baha'i faith's martyrs, Bab Mirza Ali Muhammad, executed by the Persian authorities in 1850.Bahai Gardens, Haifa.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin

Dance - one of peoples’ favourite pastimes…an activity, hobby or passion that individuals the world over take pleasure in. And in Israel that’s no exception - people have been dancing in Israel before it was created! There are mentions of dance in the Jewish sacred texts (today, Jews dance and rejoice with Torah scrolls at the festival of Simchat Torah) and this kind of expression has always been an important part of communal life, particularly weddings!.Dancing girl, Tel Aviv, Israel. Photo by Or Hakim on UnsplashThe modern origins of dance in Israel can be traced back to the waves of immigration that began just the beginning of the 20th century. Jews from all over Russia and Eastern Europe who had Zionist sympathies brought with them the dances of their mother nations. This really led to the movement of ‘folk dancing’ - a way for individuals to express the culture they had learned as children.Today, dance in Israel incorporates all kinds of styles and techniques from traditional to contemporary. Dancing to music sung in Hebrew, Yiddish, and Ladino, dance has taken on two major forms - traditional folk dancing and dance as an art form (using professional choreographers, stage productions, and trained artists). One thing we do know, however, is that whether you want to dance or watch a dance performance, you’ll be able to do so almost anywhere in Israel. Let’s have a closer look at all things to do with this wonderful activity…Market Dance, a ballerina in the Carmel Market. Photo by Liel Anapolsky on UnsplashFolk Dancing in Israel (Rikudei Am)Folk dancing has a long and colorful history in Israel - as a form of dance, performed to songs in Hebrew, it has been around for over 100 years. The beginnings of it can be traced back to pioneering Jews who arrived in the country in the 1880s, then the turn of the century, and later in the 1930s. In the ‘Aliyahs’ (periods when many Jews arrived in what was then called Palestine ) by these diaspora Jews, the desire for communal dancing increased, very much in line with the desire for the creation of a Jewish state.Dances brought to the Promised Land by these European Jews included the polka, rondo, and hora and it was the third of these that eventually became Israel’s ‘national dance’. The hora itself (a circle dance) was and still is, today, an iconic dance in Israeli folk dancing culture.Performed at festivals and celebrations, and set to Israeli music - folk, klezmer, or (most popularly) the tune of ‘Hava Nagila’ - it is danced at practically every wedding or bar mitzvah celebration both in Israel and in Jewish communities around the world.The hora was also made incredibly famous after the State of Israel was created, when Jews in Tel Aviv and across the land broke into spontaneous hora dancing, to mark their joy at Ben Gurion’s Declaration of Independence. Today, Israeli folk dancing is still very popular, with groups all over the country dedicated to its preservation. It’s also wonderful for tourists to watch in places like the Tel Aviv Beach Promenade, on Saturday morning, when locals gather by the Gordon Beach and perform folk dances for two or three hours, to the delight of passersby!Israeli folk dance (rikudei am), Karmiel, Israel.Photo credit: © Dana LifanovaBallroom dancing in IsraelIn recent years, ballroom dancing has become very popular in Israel, in part because of an interest in an ‘old’ hobby and in part because of shows such as ‘Dancing with the Stars.’ The studio in Ramat HaSharon (close to Tel Aviv) named ’Arthur Murray’ has made a name for itself teaching enthusiasts ballroom and Latin dancing.There is also a ballroom dancing academy open in Ashdod, a city home to many Russian immigrants who loved the pastime, back in the country of their birth, and took it up with gusto here. In recent years, Israel has even competed in ballroom dancing world championships! With more and more classes on offer throughout the country, it seems like the stereotype of ballroom dancing being an aristocratic, older person’s hobby - is finally being laid to rest.Ballroom dancing. Photo by Preillumination SeTh on UnsplashContemporary dance in IsraelGaga - the most famous kind of contemporary dancing in Israel today has got to be ‘Gaga’. No, that doesn’t refer to anyone gone mad; rather it’s an innovative modern dance movement developed by the Batsheva Dance Company (see below, in ‘Dance Companies’) under the directorship of Ohad Naharin.Gaga is hard to define but essentially it’s a dance technique that focuses on physical bodily sensations, communication, and creativity. The Gaga method offers dancers the opportunity to develop stamina along with coordination, by exploring speed and form. Gaga, says Naharin, is both playful and powerful and, every year, dancers from around the world arrive in Tel Aviv, to learn more about it. Gaga performances are often given at the Suzanne Dellal Centre in the Neve Tzedek neighborhood and, in these trying Corona times, they also offer classes online.Earth Dance - Earth Dance in Israel is held each year (on the same day as similar Earth Dance events across the globe) in the tranquil Galilee region. This social, musical, and family-friendly event offers numerous activities, including dance performances from all kinds of traditions (think African, Indian, South American, and Asian…)Flash Mob Dance - the flash mob dance craze has reached many parts of the world, and Israel is one of them. For anyone who doesn’t know, this is when a group of people all gather together in a public space and then break into amazing dance routines in front of an unsuspecting public. Flash mobs have become increasingly popular in Israel in the last ten years and are often very well organized and a delight to watch. Here’s a flashmob dance event in Jerusalem that took place close to the Jaffa Gate and the Mamilla rooftop restaurant.Dancing students at the entrance of Suzanne Dellal Center. Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinDance festivals in IsraelKarmiel Dance Festival - this world-famous dance festival first took place in 1987 and, since then, has been held annually, each July, in the charming town of Karmiel in northern Israel. Originally established as a festival for Israeli folk dance, their offerings have expanded widely over the years and now include performances from troupes across the world.Showcasing Israeli music and dance (think ballet, modern, hip-hop, folk to say the least) it brings dancers together from across the world, with no regard for age, skillset, faith or creed.Two major competitions take place within the festival - one involving folk dancing and the other choreography. Corona permitting (!) the festival will take place sometime this summer, on 5-7 July 2022.Activities will take place at venues across Karmiel, and will certainly include extended dance sessions, original productions, and new artistic creations, including a production that is put on on the last night, featuring hundreds of performers.You don’t have to dance either - you can go and watch, and enjoy some street food and live music while you’re at it! Our tip: don’t miss the opening act - a pageant in which thousands participate, accompanied by all kinds of musicians and orchestras. Karmiel Dance Festival at night, Israel. Photo credit: © Dana LifanovaTel Aviv International Dance - this annual festival has been taking place since 1999 each summer and runs for at least a week. It is held at the state-of-the-art Suzanne Dellal Centre, in Neve Tzedek, one of the city’s most beautiful and charming neighborhoods.This Tel Aviv festival showcases both Israeli and international dance companies and choreographers, and hosts between 2,000 and 10,000 attendees per day. Last year, there were 25 performances, 8 premieres and 13 new productions by Israeli artists, as well as 3 performances for young children and their parents.Jerusalem International Dance Week - this festival aims to promote Jerusalem as an international dance space and to make visible high-quality, contemporary Israeli dance to the top international festivals worldwide. The showcase events and the international choreography competition were founded in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 2011. Events are held at the Machol Shalem Dance House, and include original works of contemporary dance which, year after year, excite audiences from across the spectrum.Room Dances Festival, Israel- held both in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, this festival was established by Amos Hetz, 32 years ago. A performer and choreographer himself, he wanted to offer a platform for artists who wanted to create an intimate space between them and their audiences. The festival is usually held in November and runs for 3 nights, and this year’s event aims to focus on solo dancers/small ensembles who will perform in venues without a partition between stage and audience.Ballerina on the stairs in Tel Aviv. Photo by Liel Anapolsky on UnsplashDance Companies and Teachers in IsraelThe Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Company (KCDC) - directed by Rami Be’er, who is well-known in the dance world for his unique choreographic skills, this world-famous dance company performs across the globe. Based in the beautiful location of Western Galilee, they also offer intensive summer dance programs (two, four, and six weeks) for both high school and university students.KCDC was founded by the late Yehudit Arnon, in 1973, who - back then - had no idea how famous it would become. Today, in the ‘Dance Village’ there, the emphasis is on fostering excellence and creating a space for international dancers. They also offer special projects and guided tours.Vertigo - this modern dance company, based in Jerusalem, was established in 1992, by Noa Wertheim and Adi Sha’al. They perform works both by Wertheim and independent choreographers from Israel and around the world. Located on Bezalel Street, in the downtown part of the city, they also offer workshops, training, and classes.Dance neon sign. Photo by Georgia de Lotz on UnsplashBatsheva - this world-famous company, situated in Tel Aviv, was founded by the legendary Martha Graham and Baroness Batsheva de Rothschild, in 1964 and really was a consequence of the growing interest in modern dance in the USA at that time.Dancers were trained in the Graham technique, although their performances often ended up being most unlike their American counterparts.In 1990, Ohad Naharin was appointed as Artistic Director and is probably best known for his introduction of the “Gaga’ method (see the section above, in ‘Contemporary Dance.’)Batsheva’s Tel Aviv home is at the Suzanne Dellal Centre in Neve Tzedek and today is at the forefront of modern international dance.Inbal Pinto and Avshalom Pollock Dance Company - this eponymous dance company was established in 1992 and is also based in Tel Aviv, performing at Suzanne Dallal. They have 12 regular dancers and are known for their unique performances, particularly when it comes to choreographers.Yasmeen Godder Dance Company - Yasmeen was born in Jerusalem but moved to New York City at 11, and graduated from the High School of the Performing Arts, then moving on to study with Martha Graham. After returning to Israel, she settled in Tel Aviv where she now teaches concert dance. Her works have been performed in France, Germany, and the USA, and in 2007, she established the Yasmeen Godder Studio in Jaffa.Ballerina in Tel Aviv. Photo by Liel Anapolsky on UnsplashDance Schools in IsraelThe Jerusalem Academy of Music and Dance - as well as its extensive music programs, Academy has a dedicated dance department, focused on producing dancers, teachers, and choreographers who have a broad background in performance, instruction, and creative activity. They offer both theoretical and practical training and a state-of-the-art building in which to learn both dance and movement techniques.Mehola - this dance school has five branches across Israel and offers unusual and modern repertories for children to learn. These include folklore, jazz, hip hop, musical, and even ‘Zionist’ themes. There are also classes in fields such as character dancing, technical polishing, and character development.International Ballet School, Tel Aviv - with both children and adults divisions, this ballet school’s philosophy is that the dance should be able to express their individuality. Set up in 2017 by Nicholas Barez, it offers local and international families alike a unique opportunity - to learn the French classical ballet technique in a very multicultural environment. Ballerina at the Tel Aviv Museum of Art. Photo by Liel Anapolsky on UnsplashThe school runs two language sections - one in Hebrew, the other in English/French. These two then merge into a single English-speaking program for those aged 12 and above. They also offer intensive courses at Hanukkah, Passover, and in the summer.Fresco Dance - Established in 2002 by Yoram Karmi, this Tel Aviv-based company performs regularly throughout the year in Israel and also abroad. They have produced dance pieces that premiered in the Israel Festival in 2007/2010 and in festivals around the world. Placing their emphasis on technique, as well as individual style and character, they give performances both for adults and children.Bikurey Ha’Itim Dance - both a dance school and university, this Tel Aviv center offers part-time and full-time courses for students aged 18-22. Their evening classes are open to the entire public, giving you a chance to practice your Brazilian moves, the Lindy swing, Argentinian tango, Cuban salsa, and even a little ballroom!If you are interested in Israeli culture, feel free to read more articles devoted to theatre in Israel, music of Israel, and sculpture in Israel.Tango dancers. Photo by Preillumination SeTh on Unsplash

It’s June and summer is upon us in earnest. Moreover, after two long years of Corona, visitors are back in Israel in earnest and none more so than those who’ve turned up this week for the famous Gay Pride parade, culminating this Friday.Love is Love Gay Pride poster in Tel Aviv, Israel. Photo byYoav HornungonUnsplashTel Aviv Pride - Taking to the Streets to Celebrate!Since its humble beginnings, around 25 years ago (when, in 1997, fewer than a thousand people turned up for a ‘Love Parade’, Tel Aviv Pride is now one of the city’s biggest events in the year and one of the most popular Prides throughout the world. So much so that many tourists arrive here not just for the parade but for all kinds of gay-friendly events that take place in Israel before and after - it’s not just one day of celebration but several - this year on Monday 9th – Saturday 14th June 2025.Same-Sex Couple Rights in IsraelIsrael has a great record when it comes to supporting sexual equality - for sure it’s got the most progressive culture and legislation in the Middle East. It’s also fair to say that Tel Aviv is probably one of the most gay-friendly cities in the world - when you come and visit, don’t be surprised to see two men pushing a buggy - the LGBTQ community here can adopt kids and fertility treatment is widely-available (and not costly, indeed often free).As well as enjoying rights as parents, same-sex couples in Israel also have the same medical, pension and inheritance rights as heterosexual couples. And since 1993, discrimination in the military has been formally outlawed, which means you can be ‘out’ and serve in the army, navy and air force.Rainbow flag lighting over Tel Aviv city hall building for Tel Aviv Pride.Photo credit: © ShutterstockTel Aviv - the Ultimate Gay-Friendly CitySo there really is a lot to celebrate in Tel Aviv, which is a very liberal city. The mayor, Ron Huldai, emphasised this back in 2017 at the Parade, stating that the city “will continue to be a lighthouse city - spreading the values of freedom, tolerance and democracy to the world.”And if you come to Tel Aviv for Pride, not only will you be spoilt for choice in terms of Tel Aviv restaurants, bars and gay-friendly hotels, but you’ll also get a chance to see City Hall (in Rabin Square) lit up in rainbow colours to celebrate, not to mention Pride rainbow flags on every street corner. Where and When is Tel AvivPride2025?The Pride Parade this 2025 isn’t in its usual spot - in the past, it always began in Gan Meir (the home an LGBTQ community centre). This year, it begins at the Sportech Centre on Rokach Boulevard 22. It will wind its way all throughYarkon Park towards Joshua’s Garden. There are going to be more floats than ever this year too, which - if the participants have anything to do with it - are bound to be creative, colourful and festive! After the parade itself, an enormous afterparty is planned, which will probably involve dancing and music going on late into the night. “The Love Stage” party and concert has famed Australian DJ Iggy Azalea in charge of the music, as well as plenty of Israeli singers including Harel Skaat, Anna Zach and Shahar Saul.Gay Pride Tel Aviv, Israel.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinSpending a Few Days in Tel Aviv?Still, coming to Israel for Pride isn’t just about the parade…there are endless things to do in the ‘Non-Stop City’ - from exploring Bauhaus architecture to rummaging in theJaffa Flea market, cycling Rothschild Boulevard or soaking up rays on one of the city’s beautiful beaches.Tel Aviv has all kinds of charming neighbourhoods to wander in too, including the vibrant Kerem HaTeimanim (the Yemenite Quarter) which sits next door to the Carmel Market, the city’s biggest and most lively market, selling everything you can imagine from fruits and vegetables to household goods, flowers and clothing. It’s also home to all kinds of street stalls selling world foods, the famed ‘Beer Bazaar’, hummus joints (hummus is a food locals just can’t get enough of) and coffee shops. On Friday afternoons, a few hours before Shabbat comes in, the ‘Shuk ha Carmel’ is bustling like you can’t imagine, and a great place to grab a drink and engage in some people-watching.LGBT Rights Poster.Photo bySharon McCutcheononUnsplashFrom Day to NightBy night, Tel Aviv is home to some incredible restaurants - the variety of foods is astonishing, from Israeli street food (think falafel, sabich and shawarma) to high-end Chef restaurants, where plates aren’t cheap but the experience you’ll have will wow you. Whether it’s sushi, tapas or contemporary Israeli cuisine (courtesy of famous chef Haim Cohen who runs the restaurant ‘Yaffo-Tel’) you’re bound to leave bowled over.And if you’re less of a foodie than a party animal, don’t fear because, with cocktails bars like Bell Boy, the Imperial Bar, Spicehaus and Concierge, you’re going to see a side of mixology you never knew existed. Finish it off with a trip to a club - The Block, Breakfast Bar or Sputnik - and that’s a night well spent! Day Trips outside Tel AvivFinally, although Tel Aviv is an incredible city, there’s so much more to Israel than just its largest city. The other good news is that Israel is a small country which has excellent and well-connected public transport links. Or you can book a private transfer from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem if you prefer comfort.Whether you want to take a train, hop on an Egged bus or rent a car in Israel, you can be in another part of the country in no time at all.Indeed, travelling from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem became even simpler in the last couple of years, thanks to the opening of a fast train which links the Non-Stop City with the Holy City in just 40 minutes.Folks preparing for sunset on Tel Aviv beach during Pride festivities 2018. Photo byGuy TsroronUnsplashNon-Stop to Holy GroundOnce in Jerusalem itself, you can hop on the light railway and be at the gates of the Old City in less than 15 minutes. Walking through the four quarters of this historic place is something that should not be missed. For Christians, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is the spot at which Christ is assumed to have been crucified and then rose from the dead. For Jews, a trip to the Western Wall (the last remaining wall of Herod’s Second Temple) is incredibly moving. And for Muslims, the Dome of the Rock and Temple Mount are the place at which it is believed Mohammed flew over on his night journey to Mecca. There’s also plenty to do and see in the more modern part of Jerusalem - take a trip to Mahane Yehuda Market, the city’s lively market, visit the world-famous Israel Museum or take a tour of Yad Vashem, the country’s monument to Holocaust survivors. Jerusalem may not be ‘non-stop’ in the way Tel Aviv is, but it has an atmosphere few fail to experience and wonder at.We like you too, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel. Photo byYoav HornungonUnsplashDay Trips to the Dead Sea and MasadaOf course, if you’re travelling independently but don’t want the hassle of renting a car, would like to learn more with the service of a guide or are just looking for some company, then taking an organised day trip in Israel is a great way to see more of the country.The Dead Sea and Masada, which are high points of any tourist’s visit, are easily reached within a day (especially if you set off from Jerusalem) and combining floating in salty water at the earth’s lowest point, with exploring an ancient Herodian fortress, makes for a fine day out. (Our tip: if you want a first-hand account of the day trip to Masada and the Dead Sea we offer, take a look at our blog post written by Sarah Mann, talking about travelling with a group there).Trips to Northern Israel and Jordan from Tel AvivNorthern Israel is also very beautiful at this time of the year - whether you’re at the Sea of Galilee (full of historic churches), in Acre (an ancient Crusader city) or further afield, in the lofty Golan Heights - you’ll be amazed at how beautiful and tranquil this part of the country is.And finally, for the more intrepid adventurer, we also run trips to Jordan - for 3 days or more - giving you the chance to explore the ancient Nabatean city of Petra, carved out of rocks that turn colour throughout the day. Jordan and Israel have friendly relations and it’s an easy journey from Eilat to Petra(not available at the moment), in an air-conditioned bus, with a guide who’ll deal with all the Jordan visa formalities at the Jordan-Israel border crossing.So whether you’re staying in Tel Aviv for Pride or want to see a bit more of our country than the non-stop city, enjoy yourself. And if you need any more information on any of the trips and tours we offer, don’t hesitate to contact us.Now go and celebrate!Rush hour in Tel Aviv is a sight to behold.Photo byShai PalonUnsplash