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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).

This Jerusalem and Bethlehem tour starts with a breathtaking view of Jerusalem. You can see the Old City walls and beyond it the Dome of the Rock on Temple Mount. Then, we descend from Mt. Scopus driving past the Mount of Olives, home to the Garden of Gethsemane and the Church of Gethsemane. We drive past Mount Moriah, and parallel to the Old City’s ancient walls through Kidron Valley where you can see the ancient tombs of Benei Hezir, Zechariah, and the Tomb of Absalom were built.The Jerusalem tour enters the Old City via one of the ancient gates and we continue on foot through the Jewish Quarter. Here we see the Byzantine Cardo, an excavated ancient street that was once a bustling thoroughfare. On our walk through the Jewish Quarter, we pass the Hurva Synagogue and pause for the perfect photo looking down on the Western Wall with Temple Mount and the Dome of the Rock behind. We stop at the Western Wall, the one part of the Second Holy Temple that survived destruction in 70 AD.We continue to the Via Dolorosa and follow a section of the path Jesus took from his judgment to his crucifixion at Golgotha. The Via Dolorosa leads us to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. This ornate 4th-century church encompasses the last Stations of the Cross including Calvary (Golgotha) where Jesus was crucified. Before departing from the Old City, we pass through the Old City Market (Shuk).We drive from Jerusalem to Bethlehem past the Church of the Angels in Shepherds’ Field. We arrive at Manger Square where we enter the Basilica of the Nativity. This church was built above the Grotto of the Nativity where Christ was born. While in the church we see 12th-century mosaics and the original floor from the first church built by Saint Helena in the 4th century.If possible, we will visit the adjacent Church of Saint Catherine and descend to subterranean caves to see sacred tombs and chapels including the Chapel of St. Jerome. We make our way back to Jerusalem or Tel Aviv where you are returned to your hotel.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 and Bethlehem: The Pool of Bethesda, the City of David, the Milk Grotto, the Basilica of Ecce Homo and much (see FAQ section for details)

Start your private tour of Jerusalem and the Dead Sea at the top of Mount Scopus, with panoramic views across Jerusalem. Drive past the Garden of Gethsemane at the foot of the Mount of Olives and look down at ancient Jewish tombs as we drive through Kidron Valley. Pass Mount Moriah as we continue parallel to the 16th-century Old City walls. Enter the Old City and continue to explore the Old City on foot.Walk through the Jewish Quarter and see the excavated Byzantine Cardo, once the main shopping street of biblical Jerusalem. Get a view looking down on Temple Mount, the Dome of the Rock, and the Western Wall before descending to the Western Wall Plaza. The Western Wall the last remaining wall of the Second Temple was destroyed in 70 AD. Take a moment to soak up the atmosphere and perhaps place a prayer note between the crevices of the wall’s massive stones.Continue your walk to the Christian Quarter and follow part of the Via Dolorosa, the route Jesus took to his crucifixion. This leads us to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, which encompasses Golgotha, the site of the crucifixion and Jesus’ tomb. Before leaving Jerusalem, walk through the Old City market where you can enjoy the sights and sounds of a traditional Middle Eastern bazaar. Leave Jerusalem to drive South through the Judean Desert to the lowest point on Earth. We pause at the sea level elevation mark and stop at a lookout point with views across the desert, the Jordanian mountains, and the Dead Sea.Upon reaching the Dead Sea take the opportunity to float in the thick salty water. Due to the mineral-rich water, high oxygen levels in the air, and diminished UV rays, the region is said to have therapeutic benefits. Cover your body and face in the nourishing Dead Sea mud and relax on the beach before returning to your hotel rested and rejuvenated.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 Dome of the Rock, the famous Israel Museum, the Western Wall Tunnels, Jaffa Gate and more (see FAQ section for details)

Begin your adventure by visiting the famous Nazareth, a city filledwith biblical sites. Start at the Church of the Annunciation, where the angel Gabriel appeared before Mary. Close by is the Church of St. Joseph built above a 1st-century dwelling that is believed to have been Joseph’s carpentry and the Holy Family home. Time permitting, take a walk through the Nazareth market and enjoy the sounds, aromas, and colors of this traditional Middle Eastern bazaar.Continue with a drive through Kfar Kanna - biblical Cana, where Jesus turned water into wine. Today Kfar Kanna is home to the Wedding Church which marks the site where this miracle took place. You’ll see parts of the Jesus Trail as the driver takes you across the pastoral Galilee countryside, and through the ancient Jewish town of Magdala before reaching Tabgha. At this small town on the edge of the Sea of Galilee stop to visit the Church of the Multiplication of Loaves and Fish. The present church was built on two earlier churches marking the site of the miracle of multiplication. It was also where Jesus is believed to have made his fourth resurrection appearance.Your Galilee private tour will continue to Kfar Nahum, better known as the biblical town of Capernaum where Jesus based himself during his ministry. Stop at the Church of Saint Peter which marks the site of the home of the disciple Peter. Excavation revealed a 5th-century octagonal church and layers of residential homes from the 1st century. The church stands in the center of the archaeological site and nearby is an ancient synagogue where Jesus is believed to have preached.After lunch, the final stop of the day is at Yardenit, where you can choose to be baptized in the Jordan River as Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist 2000 years ago.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 the area:Take a boat trip on the Sea of Galilee, a Kayak ride on the Jordan River, visit Domus Galilaeae and much more (see FAQ section for details)

This is a private tour along the Mediterranean coastline which visits Caesarea, Acre, and Rosh Hanikra as well as gives you a panoramic view of Haifa. Get a taste of the rich and diverse history of the region: The first stop is in Caesarea, an ancient port town originally inhabited by Phonecians. It was turned into an expansive city and port by King Herod in 31-37 BC. He built palaces, a theater, bathhouses, a hippodrome, and a harbor, and named the city in honor of Caesar Augustus. Caesarea thrived under Herod and throughout the Byzantine era but was then destroyed in the 7th century and rebuilt by Crusaders in the 11th century. With your personal guide, you will be able to explore the ruins and tour the excavated buildings, bathhouses, and the remains of the famous port.Continue your drive north to Haifa, a city built on the slopes of Mount Carmel facing a natural harbor. Take in the breathtaking views from atop Mount Carmel. Look out to Haifa Bay and across the immaculate Bahai Shrine and magnificent terraced gardens. Before leaving Haifa, drive through the historic German Colony established in 1868 by Christian German Templers.The next stop is at the northernmost point along Israel’s Mediterranean coast at Rosh Hanikra. Here you will see the border crossing between Israel and Lebanon. Just a few steps away is a cable car that will take you down the mountainside into a labyrinth of beautiful natural grottoes. The sea reflects off of the white limestone cliffs and splashes up through openings in the cavernous grottoes.Returning south, the tour continues to Acre Old City, where we stop for lunch before exploring this ancient port city that boasts a rich and diverse history that dates back to antiquity. Originally settled by the Canaanites, Acre later fell under the dominion of the Phoenicians, Romans, Byzantines, and Crusaders, each leaving an indelible mark on the city's architecture and culture. The well-preserved structures of Acre include the Crusader-era Acre Citadel, a UNESCO site, and the Knights' Halls and underground passageways of the Crusader stronghold. Wander through Acre’s labyrinthine alleys and vibrant market, for a glimpse of traditional daily life.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 northern Israel: enjoy the advanced Caesarea Museum, visit the Ghetto Fighters’ Holocaust Museum, see ancient synagogues and more(see FAQ section for details).

Begin your private Golan Heights tour with a drive north through the lush Galilee countryside. You’ll pass vineyards, farmlands, and forests as well as several memorials to fallen soldiers and famous battles. Reach the Banias Nature Reserve on the slopes of Mount Hermon, Israel’s highest peak where the Banias Springs flow through thick vegetation and forests. Take a walking tour through the idyllic setting, learn about the park’s ancient temple to the Greek god Pan, and see waterfalls and streams.Next, drive to Nimrod’s Fortress - this castle was first built about 2000 years ago, then rebuilt under the Ayyubid dynasty in the 13th century. It was occupied by the Mongols, who were defeated by the Mamluks. They reinforced the structure and added large towers. Under the Ottomans, it was used as a prison before being abandoned in the 16th century. Walk through the fortress’s excavated and restored remains before driving to Ram Lake's lookout point where we stop for lunch.Lake Ram or Birkat el-Ram is a crater lake filled with rainwater and an underground spring. Your PRO tour guide will tell you about the many myths and legends associated with the lake, and about the remarkable archaeological findings uncovered here.Next, drive to Mount Bental. This was the site of a Syrian outpost until it was captured by Israel during the Six-Day War in 1967. You can explore the abandoned Syrian bunkers and fortifications. Looking out across the border into Syria you can see the Syrian city of Kuneitra, and looking back across Israel enjoy the patchwork of farmlands, rolling hills, and small lakes.The last stop before heading back is Mtzpe Gadot (Gadot Lookout). This was a Syrian army base until 1967. It overlooked the road that connected Galilee to the Golan and gave the occupants a strategic advantage over the valley below. See the monument honoring soldiers of the Golan Brigade who fought in this area and enjoy the spectacular panoramic views of Jordan, the Hula Valley, and the Golan. This is your opportunity to enjoy the best of the Golan with your personal guide on a customized private tour.Note that while it was compiled by our experts, this itinerary is just one suggestion; you can customize your tour and see more of Northern Israel:Discover the Tel Dan Nature Reserve, visit the Katzrin ancient synagogue, grab amazing food in Majdal Shams, experience Druze hospitality and much more (See FAQ section for details).

Start your Tel Aviv Private Tourin Jaffa, Tel Aviv’s joint municipality located at the southern end of Tel Aviv’s beachfront promenade. Jaffa is an ancient port city named after the biblical character, Jephthah, who was the son of Noah. The city is mentioned several times in the Bible and is said to be one of the oldest ports in the world. Jaffa was built on a cliff overlooking the sea where you can see the waves crashing against Andromeda’s Rock. According to Greek mythology, the daughter of the King of Jaffa, Princess Andromeda was chained to the rock as a sacrifice to a sea monster. But she was rescued by her true love, Perseus. Wander along the lanes of Old Jaffa and see a statue of Napoleon, a reminder that the Frenchman fought the Ottomans and conquered Jaffa in 1799.See St. Peter’s Church, a large edifice built to commemorate Peter’s time in Jaffa. Walk across the Zodiac Bridge which is decorated with the signs of the zodiac and offers views along Tel Aviv’s coastline. See the excavated 3500-year-old Egyptian Ramesses II Gate, and continue to Jaffa’s Artists Quarter. Walk along the narrow lanes lined with artists' studios, and galleries displaying unique artwork. Before heading for Tel Aviv, we pass through Jaffa’s flea market, a labyrinth of lanes, and stalls where items of every description are on display.Leaving Jaffa to pass through HaTachanah, the first train station built in the Middle East in 1892, which once served the railway line that connected Jaffa to Jerusalem. Today HaTachanah has been renovated and turned into a modern commercial public space. We continue to Tel Aviv and the first Jewish neighborhood built outside Jaffa’s city walls - Neve Tzedek. This colorful neighborhood founded in 1909 has picturesque lanes, quaint cottages, and several specialty eateries and stores. Next visit Carmel Market, Tel Aviv’s most famous market selling fresh produce, clothing, and more. This is the perfect place to stop for lunch and try Israeli cuisine.Continue to Rothschild Boulevard, passing Bauhaus buildings, and elegant historic homes. See Independence Hall where Ben Gurion announced Israel’s independence, and stop to admire the monument that commemorates this event. Pass Heichal HaTarbut, (Culture Hall), home of the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra; Habima, Israel’s national theater, and head for Dizengoff Center, which is considered the center of Tel Aviv. Continue to Rabin Square, a public plaza where Prime Minister Rabin was assassinated in 1995. This Tel Aviv Private Tour comes to an end when we reach Tel Aviv Port, a commercial and entertainment area with a seafront promenade, created from Tel Aviv’s historic port.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 Tel Aviv's magic: Visit the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, take a Graffiti tour, see the Great Synagogue, enter the Palmach Resistance Museum and more (see FAQ section for details).

This exhilarating desert safari tour is available every day except Mondays and Saturdays. Your day will start at the Inn of the Good Samaritan where you’ll meet your guide and head back to Mishor Adumim where your off-road experience begins.The 4x4 jeep will take you into the desert where you can enjoy the unique landscape up close. Along the way, your private guide will explain about the surroundings and the point where the lowlands become desert. The first stop is at Upper Og Stream, this enchanting stream in the northern part of the Judean Desert flows through a narrow gorge flanked by steep limestone cliffs. Your private guide will tell you about the desert plants, animals, and the local Bedouin people who manage to survive in this harsh environment. As you drive through the desert landscape you’ll see small Bedouin camps, caves, camels, and herds of goats watched over by young shepherds.Continue to Mount Muntar, the highest mountain in the Judean Desert. On the summit of Mount Muntar, your guide will tell you about the history and legends associated with the mount, and you can enjoy views across the Judean Desert, Jericho, the Dead Sea, the Moab Mountains, and Jerusalem. According to Jewish tradition, Muntar is the biblical site of Azazel. On the Day of Atonement, a scapegoat was pushed to its death from Azazel to atone for the sins of the people.We continue south to Mar Saba Monastery (Holy Lavra or Great Laura of Saint Sabas). St. Sabbas was one of several Christian hermits who went into the desert to seek solitude and a stronger connection with God. The Greek Orthodox monastery is one of the oldest monasteries in the world established in 488, and the monks living here still keep their ancient traditions. For example, no women may enter the main compound. Although they may enter the “Women’s Tower” near the monastery entrance.After a coffee or tea break, we continue east and drive to Hyrcania Valley where an ancient fortress was built by the Hasmonaens, later used by King Herod, and hundreds of years later became a monastery before being completely abandoned. We cross the valley from south to north and reach Nabi Musa. According to Muslim tradition, this desert mosque is believed to contain the tomb of Moses (Musa).At this point, we leave the desert trails behind and return to the road. Stop at the Dead Sea to relax, and unwind after a thrilling desert adventure. Enjoy floating in the waters and covering your body in the mineral-rich mud. From here, return to your hotel after an amazing day. Note that while it was compiledby our experts, this itinerary is just one suggestion; you cancustomize your tourand see much more of the Judean Desert's splendor:Hike along the Havarim Stream in the Almog Kibbutz area, see Dragot Stream, visit the Ein Gedi Botanical Gardens, explore Qumranand more (see FAQ section for details)

The private tour starts by driving along the coast road to Caesarea. Made famous by Herod, he built a Roman City in honor of Caesar Augustus. On your private tour you will explore the ancient ruins with your personal guide, explaining the history surrounding the aqueducts, homes, stores, hippodrome, Herod’s palace, temples, warehouses and the ancient port. View the crusader fortress, the Ottoman mosque and the Roman amphitheater, which still functions today. You will continue your private tour to Zichron Yaakov, at the southern end of the Carmel Mountain range. Founded in 1882, by Baron Rothschild, it’s one of Israel’s earliest settlements. There are cottages with inner courtyards designed with a European influence. The main thoroughfare of Zichron Yaakov is a cobbled street with quaint cafes and boutique shops. Your Zichron Yaakov private tour will take you to Beit Nili, a base for a spy ring during World War I. Next, a visit to the Ohel Yaakov Synagogue, dating back to 1886. Finally, stop for wine tasting at The Carmel Winery, established in 1885 as Israel’s first winery. This is your Zichron Yaakov custom tour, so you decide the order and the pace. Heading north to Haifa, enjoy the immaculate Baha'i Gardens and take in the panoramic view across Haifa bay. On your private tour, visit the German Templar settlement, then head up to the Muhraka Monastery which sits on the highest point of the Carmel Mountain range. It is believed that the Prophet Elijah took refuge here during the Crusader era. Enjoy some wonderful views of the valley below.On the return journey, stop at the Druze village, Dalit-el-carmel. This is a feast for the senses with a vibrant marketplace packed with delicious food and fresh aromas. Have your personal guide explain the traditional Druze dress and religious beliefs.

During your private tour to Jewish Galilee you will have the opportunity to visit many sites of interest. Start your private tour at the Kinneret, or the Sea of Galilee, and its nearby city Tiberias. Originally this was a first century pagan city which was built by Herod Antipas alongside the Jewish city of Hamat. Today, Tiberias is a small city, but remaining excavations can be viewed in the archaeological park. In Hamat, a well-preserved mosaic is housed in a fifth/sixth century synagogue inside a national park. Tiberias is also home to the tombs and graves of many famous Rabbi’s including the twelfth century Jewish philosopher, Maimonides as well as Rabbi Meir Ba’al HaNes. Have your personal guide explain the importance of the Capernaum and Bethsaida to both Jewish and Christian heritage. Continue you on your private tour to Kibbutz Ginossar, home to the Yigal Alon Museum where the exterior of a restored boat sits on display on the shores of the Kinneret. Tour the exhibition telling the story of the early twentieth century pioneers who came and established the first kibbutzim in the area. Next on your tour, stop at the Kinneret cemetery, where famous poet Rachel and songwriter Naomi Shemer are buried. Take a short drive to the excavations at Zippori. This was a prominent city in 1 BCE, which is remarkable as it has no natural springs or water source. The population did not participate in the Jewish revolt of 67 CE and so was spared destruction. As such, some magnificent mosaics and structures have been maintained. The mosaic floor in the villa, the floor of the synagogue and inside an unidentified complex of rooms depict unusual images in over 20 colors. A fabulous way to finish your private tour and a sight not to be missed.

After being picked up at your hotel take a drive through the Judean Hills and stop at the Chapel of the Shepherds’ Field, also called the Sanctuary of Gloria in Excelsis Deo. This Roman Catholic church marks the place where shepherds watched their flocks on the first Christmas Eve and the angels appeared before the shepherds to announce the birth of Christ. The church was designed by renowned architect Antonio Barluzzi and is shaped like a shepherd’s tent. The glass dome lets in light that reflects off the chapel’s brilliant murals.Continue to Bethlehem and Manger Square, where the city’s annual Christmas mass is held. Flanking the square are the Church of the Nativity, Saint Catherine’s Church, the Mosque of Omar, and the Peace Center. Located in the center of Bethlehem the square once served as the town’s marketplace, but today it is the heart of Christianity in Bethlehem.Visit the Church of Nativity, an ornate basilica built in the 4th century on the traditional site of Christ’s birth. The church has been renovated several times over the last 1700 years, but you can still see part of the original mosaic floor and several elements from earlier periods in history. The massive church covers 1275m² and holds beautiful altar screens and religious artifacts. But the most important part of the church is the Holy Grotto or the Grotto of the Nativity.Visit the Grotto of Nativity, and see where Jesus is believed to have been born. The grotto leads to an underground tunnel that connects to a series of other caves. Some of the caves run beneath the adjacent Saint Catherine’s Church, including a 5th-century two-room cave known as Saint Jerome’s Sanctuary. This is where Saint Jerome is believed to have sat as he painstakingly translated biblical texts from Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek into Latin.We leave Bethlehem and drive south to Jericho passing the Inn of the Good Samaritan where Jesus set his famous parabel. As we descend through the desert mountains, we stop for a photo at the sea elevation marker. This sign tells us that we are now continuing our journey below sea level, towards the lowest point on Earth. After a break for lunch, we arrived at the famous sycamore tree in Jericho. The Bible tells us that Zacchaeus, a short tax collector, climbed the tree to see Jesus. Jesus then called him down and visited his home, prompting Zacchaeus to change his ways and give to the poor.Our next stop is at Tel Jericho (Tell es-Sultan), an archaeological mound that holds immense historical significance. Archaeologists have uncovered evidence of human occupation dating back over 10,000 years. They have excavated ancient fortifications, early agricultural tools, and pottery. Perhaps the most important discovery is an 8-meter-high Neolithic tower. From here we make our way back to your hotel.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 the area: See Herod's Palace in Jericho, go to the Qasr al-Yahud baptismal site, visit the Mount of Temptation with a cable car and more (see FAQ section for details).

The Petra tour from Tel Aviv starts with a short flight south from Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport to the Ramon Airport near Eilat. After crossing the border, a local expert tour guide will meet you and the journey continues along a picturesque desert Highway to Petra. We take a 2.5-hour drive through the magnificent, pristine desert landscape, past ruby mountain sceneries, and stunning vistas on our way to Petra.The Nabataean people carved Petram their capital city, out of red-colored rock cliffs about 2,300 years ago. Today Petra is an untouched archaeological site; We pass obelisks and the 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 down Petra’s ancient road past shines, temples, and tombs that will make you feel just like Indiana Jones, and other structures all carved out of the reddish cliffs. You'll see the mysterious Djinn Blocks, visit the majesticPalace Tomb, marvel at the mesmerizing colors of the Silk Tomb, and learn about the fascinating Nabatean city. After 3-4 hours in Petra, we will head south toward Eilat, through the gorgeous wilderness.Enjoy a Worry-Free Vacation: The tour starts with a transfer from Eilat 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 Petra Tour from Tel Aviv, to see Ad Deyr - the iconicPetra Monastery up on the ridgeand visitQasr Al-Bint Templeandthe Great Temple of Petra.

This 2 day tour visits Jerusalem, Masada and the Dead Sea at the lowest point on Earth. Walk through Jerusalem’s Old City and visit iconic landmarks like the Wailing Wall and Holy Sepulchre Church then visit Yad VaShem Holocaust Museum. Drive south to Masada and tour the 1st century BC mountain-top fortress. Spend time on a Dead Sea beach relaxing and benefiting from the therapeutic qualities of the mineral-rich water.

This 2-day tour visits Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Masada and the Dead Sea. Tour Jerusalem’s Old City including the Western Wall, Holy Sepulchre and traditional bazaar. In Bethlehem visit the Nativity Church and see where Jesus was born. Drive south through stunning scenery to Herod’s mountain-top fortress on Masada. At the Dead Sea enjoy free time floating in the salty water and relaxing on the beach.

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.

The Fourteen Stations of the Cross are points along the Via Dolorosa, the route Jesus took through the streets of Jerusalem from his condemnation to crucifixion. Each one of the Stations signifies where a particular event took place. Most of these events are recorded in the Bible depicting how Jesus wore his crown of thorns, carried the heavy wooden cross and made his way through jeering crowds along the streets of Jerusalem. Today pilgrims and tourists can retrace Jesus’ walk along the Via Dolorosa through the modern-day Old City of Jerusalem. The stone-paved streets flanked by stone buildings are very similar to those Jesus would have seen as he followed this route. The Stations of the Cross are marked by plaques, chapels and signs along the way.1st station of the CrossThe first station marks where Jesus was judged and sentenced to death in the Praetorium of Pontius Pilate also known as the Fortress of Antonia located near the Lions’ Gate of the Old City. It was here that Jesus received his crown of thorns. The place of Jesus’ judgment is now in the courtyard of Madrasa al-Omariye school for boys, the oldest school in Jerusalem.2nd Station of the CrossThe second station marks where Jesus took up his cross and recalls his condemnation. The station is located opposite the First Station on the grounds of the Franciscan School for Biblical Studies. There are two small churches at this station, The Chapel of the Flagellation commemorating where Roman soldiers beat Jesus and the Chapel of Judgment commemorating the site where Jesus was sentenced.3rd Station of the CrossThe third station is where Jesus fell for the first time beneath the weight of his cross. This station is not far from the Ecce Homo (Behold the Man), a stone arch that crosses above the Via Dolorosa. It was here that Pilate presented Jesus to the crowds of onlookers. The Third Station is marked by a Polish Catholic church bought by Armenian Catholics based in Poland and paid for by Polish soldiers stationed in Palestine during WWII. Above the church entrance is a relief depicting Jesus stumbling as he carries his cross. This event is not mentioned in the Bible.4th Station of the CrossThe fourth station marks where Mary watched as her son went by. The 19th century Armenian Church of Our Lady marks this station. The church was built partly over the ruins of a Byzantine church and partly over those of a Mameluke bathhouse. Above the entrance to the church is an image of Jesus meeting his mother and inside you can see a beautiful 5th-century floor mosaic and wall paintings. This event is not mentioned in the Bible.5th Station of the CrossAt the fifth station, Roman soldiers instructed Simon of Cyrene to help Jesus carry his cross (Luke 23). By this point, Jesus would have been in agony as he dragged the heavy wooden cross. They were approaching the final ascent up Crucifixion Hill and the soldiers saw that Jesus could no longer manage the cross alone. A small hollow in the stone wall at this station is said to hold the imprint left by Jesus and as he rested on the wall. The stone has been touched by pilgrims over the last 2,000 years making the stone smooth. A small Franciscan chapel built in 1895 at the Fifth Station is marked simply by the Jerusalem Cross and the Franciscan Cross. It was here that the Franciscans made their first home in Jerusalem in 1229.6th Station of the CrossThe sixth station marks where Veronica wiped the face of Jesus with her veil. It is believed that the image of Jesus’ face was impressed on the cloth. This sacred cloth (Sudarium) is housed in St Peter’s Basilica in Rome as a Holy relic. The name “Veronica” may be derived from the Latin – vera icon, meaning true image. Veronica’s home is thought to have been at this point along the Via Dolorosa. Today this station is marked by the Greek Catholic Church of the Holy Face which is part of the Crusader Monastery of St. Cosmos. The chapel was built in 1882 on the remains of a Byzantine monastery. The church ceiling retains its Crusader arches and the church was refurbished in 1953 by architect Antonio Barluzzi.7th Station of the CrossAt the seventh station, Jesus faltered under the weight of the cross for the second time. It is believed that Jesus’ death sentence was posted here. It could also have been where the Gate of Judgment stood and Jesus left the old city walls of Jerusalem on route to Calvary (Golgotha). At the time Golgotha was outside the city walls and crucifixions were not made within the city. Today a Franciscan chapel marks this station and inside you can see a column that stood in ancient Jerusalem’s main street, the Cardo. This event is not in the Bible.8th Station of the CrossThe eighth station is where the “daughters of Jerusalem weep for Jesus” (Luke 23, 27). Jesus paused here to consol the women telling them not to weep for him but rather for themselves and their children. At the time of the crucifixion, this station would have been outside the walls of the city. Today the station is marked by a Greek Orthodox church dedicated to Saint Charalampos. Behind the stone wall at this station is a Greek Orthodox monastery. A small and well-worn emblem carved into the wall is inscribed with the Greek word “Nika” (IC-XC-NI-KA) meaning Jesus Christ conquers. Near to the eighth station is a German hospice and above its entrance is the Maltese cross, an emblem of the Order of St. John.9th Station of the CrossBy the ninth station, Jesus faltered for the third time before his final climb to Golgotha. This is the last station before we enter the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Nearby is the Coptic Orthodox compound. A cross on a Roman column adjoined to the wall of the Coptic Patriarchate indicates the ninth station. A green door to the left leads to the courtyard in front of the Holy Sepulchre. The small Coptic Church of St. Helen is dedicated to Emperor Constantine’s mother Helena (c.246-c.327 AD). In the 4th century, Helena uncovered and restored several important Christian sites in the Holy Land including the “true cross” discovered where the Holy Sepulchre stands today. Within the church is an ancient underground water cistern discovered by Helen that is said to provide water to the Holy Sepulchre.9th-14th Stations of the CrossToday the last five Stations of the Cross are inside the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, a huge basilica constructed to encompass the sacred sites where Jesus was stripped; nailed to the cross; died on the cross; removed from the cross and laid to rest in a cave tomb. A Franciscan chapel to the right of the Sepulchre entrance marks where Jesus was stripped of his clothes. Mark 15, 24 tells us how the Roman soldiers drew lots to see who would get Jesus’ clothing. The tenth station is in a room of the Holy Sepulchre called the Chapel of the Franks. The eleventh station is the place of the crucifixion which would have been on a hill (Golgotha/Calvary) outside the city. Today this site is commemorated by a Franciscan altar behind the wall of the tenth station. Jesus died on the cross at the twelfth station. A Greek altar marks this site. Beneath the altar you can see a silver disk with a hole in the middle marking where the cross would have stood. The thirteenth station is one of the first things you see as you enter the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. The station is marked by a slab of stone (The Stone of Anointment) believed to have been where Jesus was laid out after being removed from the cross. Here he would have been prepared for burial. The Bible tells us that the body of Jesus was wrapped in linen and anointed with oils and spices according to Jewish burial rites.The 14th Station of the Cross - The Tomb of ChristThe Holiest site in Christendom is the Tomb of Christ that lies at the heart of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre within an aedicule at the center of a large rotunda. Within the aedicule is the Chapel of the Angel that holds a small piece of the boulder that closed Christ’s burial cave. The chapel leads into the tomb itself. It was here that Jesus was buried and resurrected three days after his death. This small rectangular structure (Aedicule) marks the end of the Via Dolorosa.

Plan Your VisitOpen Times:Summer (April to September) - 05:00-20:00; winter (October to March) 05:00 - 19:00.Prices:Free!Average Visit Duration:30-60 minutes. A guided Old City tour orChristian tour, might show you around and then let you have free time to explore.Getting There:The church is located in Jerusalem’s Old City between Suq Khan e-Zeit and Christian Quarter Road. You can also enter via the Ethiopian Monastery on the roof. As there is no driving in the Old City you will have to walk from one of the city gates. The closest gates to the church are the New Gate and Damascus Gate, but you can reach it just as easily from the Jaffa Gate or Dung Gate. Once you are in the Old City there are signs leading to the church.Popular Times:To avoid crowds visit in the early morning. The busiest times are during Christian holidays, especially Easter week.Special Events:The Holy Fire Ceremony is celebrated on Easter Saturday. The patriarch enters the aedicule where the Easter Fire is lit and emerges with the fire which is passed from person to person to light their candles. The entire space is filled with people holding candles lit by the Holy Flame.Pro Tip:One of the best-kept secrets is the daily evening procession led by the Franciscans through the church. It passes by the holy sites and is accompanied by Gregorian chants and prayers. The procession starts daily at 16:00.Easter celebrations and prayers take place throughout Passion Week.Church of the Holy Sepulchre Tours -Most Jerusalem guided tours will include a visit to the Holy Sepulchre. Specifically, you could join a Christian tour of Jerusalem or a tour of the Old City.Inside the Church of the Holy SepulchreIf you have time to visit only one church in Israel this should be the one! The Church of the Holy Sepulchre (or Sepulcher, Church of the Anastasia, Church of the Resurrection) is not only the most sacred Christian site, but it is also a magnificent structure with a rich and complex history.How to Visit the Church of the Holy SepulchreYou don’t need to buy a ticket or schedule a visit to the Holy Sepulchre. It is a functioning church where devoted Christians of all denominations come to pray. However the church is in the heart of the Old City, so if you are nervous about getting lost, or taking the wrong turn down one of the narrow lanes, then perhaps join anOld City guided tour.Walking down Via Dolorosa on the way to the Church of the Holy SepulchreYou can reach the Holy Sepulcher Church by following the Via Dolorosa, the route through the Old City taken by Jesus as he carried his cross to Calvary. Along the Via Dolorosa, you’ll encounter the Stations of the Cross (marking points where Jesus stopped along his route).At the 9th Station (the last one before entering the Holy Sepulchre) go into the small chapel and you can go down a few stone steps to a 2000-year-old water pool.At the end of the Via Dolorosa is the church. The last five Stations of the Cross are within the church. Pro Tip: If you are on a guided tour of Jerusalem they will take you onto the roof of the church and down through a fascinating Ethiopian Monastery.History of the Church of the Holy SepulcherThe site of the church was sacred long before the church was built. Back in about 33 AD, the place where the church stands today was outside the city walls. And this is where Jesus was taken to a hill called Calvary or Golgotha to be crucified. He was then laid to rest in a nearby cave, the Tomb of Christ, and from here Jesus was resurrected. Sepulcher means tomb.Church of the Holy SepulchreAnd so, about 300 years later in 325-6 AD when the mother of Christian Roman Emperor Constantine traveled to the Holy Land to locate biblical sites, she came to what was believed to be the place of Christ’s crucifixion, burial, and resurrection.The Emperor’s mother, Helena identified the sacred sites where a temple to the deity Aphrodite had been built by Emperor Hadrian. The land was acquired to build a church to encompass the tomb, the last five Stations of the Cross, and the Calvary.The huge opulent church has been destroyed and rebuilt several times over the last 1700 years and what we see today dates back mainly to the 12th-century Crusaders.Who Owns the Church of the Holy Sepulchre?The church is controlled by six Christian denominations, which all need to agree on any renovations or changes to the structure. It has not always been a peaceful collaboration, and when they disagree, things simply don’t get done.Pro Tip: As you stand in front of the main entrance, look up and you will see a small wooden ladder on a ledge under a window. It has been called the immovable ladder and has been there since 1728, apparently because the controlling Christian denominations couldn’t agree, and didn’t want to disturb the status quo. To ensure the neutrality of the Holy Sepulchre, the keys to the church are in the hands of a local Muslim family.What to See in the Holy Sepulcher ChurchYou don’t need an agenda when visiting the church, the best way to see it is to walk around soaking up the atmosphere and discovering hidden gems. It is a massive structure covering more than 5000m² so take your time. A classic walk through the church will take you from Calvary (immediately on your right as you enter the church), to the Tomb of Christ with a stop at the Stone of Unction. After seeing Calvary return to the entrance and start moving clockwise around the church.Inside the ChurchPro Tip: One of the church’s hidden gems is the Chapel of Helena. Go past the Chapel of the Derision, and you’ll see a flight of stairs leading down into the chapel. It is located in a 4th-century crypt and owned by the Armenian Church. This is the oldest complete part of the church and one of the church’s two underground chapels. From the chapel, you can access the place where Helena discovered the “True Cross” of Jesus. There is a lot to see, and it can be overwhelming, but here are the essentials.CalvaryAs you enter the church look to your right and you’ll see a small flight of stairs going up to Calvary (to the top of what was once a hill). Today it is a chapel (Greek and Catholic).Stone of AnointingImmediately in front of you as you enter the church is the Stone of Anointing (or Stone of Unction). You’ll recognize it by the oil lamps suspended above it and the multitude of people on their knees kissing the stone. It is believed to have been the stone where Jesus’ body was laid before burial.Rotunda, Aedicule, and Christ’s TombThe Rotunda is a huge, circular area in the church with a highly decorated ceiling. The center of the ceiling is open to the sky where light beams down onto the Aedicule. The Aedicule is the chapel where Christ’s Tomb is located. The tomb itself is surprisingly big, And if the church is holy, then the tomb is the holy of holies.Pro Tip: Visiting the Tomb of Christ is in high demand and you will often have to wait in line. A guardian stands at the entrance and lets people enter for just a few seconds.

Yad Vashem is Israel’s official Holocaust memorial and museum on Mt. Herzl in Jerusalem. At the end of World War II, information gradually started to surface about the atrocities of the Holocaust. Leaders in Israel discussed creating a memorial to the massacred Jews of Europe. In 1953, the Israeli government passed a law to establish an Institute dedicated to documenting the six million Jews slaughtered in the Holocaust. The memorial documents the fighters in the ghettos, the partisans in the forests, the soldiers in the allied armies, and the Righteous Among the Nations. When it came to choosing a name for the new memorial museum a Biblical reference was used.The prophet Isaiah tells us that God promised those without children an enduring memorial (in Hebrew: Yad Vashem or literally “a monument and a name”). So for those who lost their lives in the Holocaust without progeny Yad Vashem was chosen as a fitting name for Israel’s Holocaust Museum.Yad Vashem set about the mammoth task of gathering data about Jews that lost their lives during World War II and the survivors. The names of more than 4.3 million Holocaust victims have been recorded by Yad Vashem so far and they continue to discover more information on Holocaust victims and survivors.Many of the names were gathered from the pedantic German records which provide irrefutable proof of the Holocaust. A large quantity of Yad Vashem data is available online including the recently uploaded trial of Adolf Eichmann.The Yad Vashem Grounds, Memorials and MuseumsThe extensive grounds of the Holocaust Museum in Jerusalem hold dedicatory monuments, art, and sculptures many created by Holocaust survivors. In the comprehensive museum, you can see screenings of personal video testimonies by Holocaust survivors; authentic artifacts; original documents, and historic photographs. The Hall of Remembrance holds an eternal flame alongside a lead casket of ash taken from the crematoria. One of the most moving memorials on the Yad Vashem grounds is the Children’s Memorial dedicated to 1.5 million Jewish children who lost their lives.The Valley of the Communities is a maze of enormous blocks each recalling a town, village, or shtetl where Jewish life was wiped out. Computerized information about the 5,000 Jewish communities lost in the Holocaust is available at the museum. The Hall of Names takes the form of two large cones – one rising 10 meters and a mirroring cone going into the underground rock. A reflective pool of water lies at the bottom of the lower cone. The surfaces of these two cones are covered with photos and “Pages of Testimony” filled out by Holocaust victims.After walking through the emotionally charged Holocaust Museum visitors exit onto a balcony overlooking the Jerusalem Forest and mountains. This beautiful vista is symbolic of the hope we have for the future.Want to explore Jerusalem's old city and visit the Yad Vashem Museum? Join our Jerusalem Old and New Tourand experience both sides of Jerusalem.

The Dead Sea runs from north to south between Israel on its west bank and Jordan on the east bank. Located in southern Israel along the Jordan Rift Valleythe sea is 50 km (67 km) long and 15 km (18 km) wide at its widest point. The Dead Sea is famed as the Earth’s lowest point. The sea’s elevation is 430.5 meters below sea level. The Dead Sea is the world’s deepest salt lake (hyper saline) and has 34.2% salinity, which is 9.6 times that of the ocean. Due to the high salt content of the water no living creature (not even microscopic aquatic organisms) can live in the sea. This explains the name - “Dead” Sea.The Salt Sea has been admired by man for centuries mainly because of the rich mineral and salt content of the water and surrounding environment. The Sea of Salt is immensely beautiful with milky blue water and shores encrusted by white salt deposits. As far back as Cleopatra man has been making use of the Dead Sea’s minerals for beauty treatments and health remedies. The ancient Egyptians used the Dead Sea for beauty products and they used asphalt from the Dead Sea for the mummification process. Even Aristotle, King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba were aware of the Salt Sea’s value. Want to float in the lowest place on earth? Join one of our ourDead Sea Tours.The Dead Sea in the BibleThe Dead Sea is referred to in the Bible as the “Salt Sea” and has also been called the Sea of Sodom, the Sea of Lot and the Stinking Sea because of the rotten egg odor created by the sulphur in the water. The sea does not play a major role in the Bible but is referred to in Chronicles II 20 and in Ezekiel. Ezekiel predicted that the Salt Sea would one day flow with fresh water and fishermen would be able to cast their nets from shore. Along the shore of the sea are several Biblical locations: the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, the desert wilderness where David took refuge and the Biblical city of Jericho lies not far to the northeast of the Dead Sea.The Dead Sea RegionThe Dead Sea nestles at the lowest point of the Jordan Rift Valley surrounded by a mountainous desert landscape. On the western shore of the sea, there are several attractions including Qumran, Ein Gedi and Masada. The Jordan River flows into the Dead Sea but it has no exit point so that the rich minerals build up within the Dead Sea water. Over the years the water level of the sea has dropped dramatically due to harvesting of the salt, human diversion of the Jordan River so that less water reaches the Salt Sea and natural evaporation. The sea is divided into an upper and lower basin by a thin strip of land. The southern basin has been divided into evaporation pools used for extracting salt and minerals.Health and Beauty Benefits of the Dead SeaThe health and beauty benefits can be found in the water, mud, sun and air of the Dead Sea. People suffering from skin disorders are often told to soak in the Dead Sea. Dead Sea beauty treatments make use of the mineral-rich Dead Sea mud dug out of the banks and floor of the Dead Sea. The mud and minerals from the water are used in creams, anti-aging remedies, make-up, face masks and more. The air in the Dead Sea region has a low pollen and allergen content making it ideal for those with respiratory problems. The Dead Sea air is also high in oxygen which is great for overall well-being. As the lowest point on Earth, the distance from the sun means that the sun rays at the Dead Sea contain reduced harmful ultraviolet components. Even the high atmospheric pressure at the Dead Sea has health benefits. The Dead Sea as a whole is said to give people a feeling of well-being.Dead Sea Recreation and TourismDue to the Dead Sea’s high salt content, the water has a thick consistency, similar to oily syrup. This concentration of salt allows people to easily float on the water giving them natural buoyancy. The western shore of the Dead Sea in Israel is lined with beautiful beaches unlike any others you may have seen. There are many beaches providing beach chairs, umbrellas and railings going into the sea to help you get in and out of the water. Some beaches require a fee and others are free public beaches. Along with the beaches, there are waterfront spas offering treatments that use the Dead Sea products. The Dead Sea is home to excellent hotels, most with their own direct access to a Dead Sea beach. The Dead Sea has two main hotel and tourism areas – Neve Zohar and Ein Bokek. In both these areas, you can find excellent hotels and basic amenities.Want to float in the lowest place on earth? Join our Dead Sea Relaxation Tour.

King David’s Tomb is situated on Mount Zion just outside the Old City walls in Jerusalem. Although the authenticity of the site has long been in question it is still a sacred site for Jews, Christians and Muslims. David is an Old Testament hero, King of the Israelites, credited with fighting Goliath; he composed many of the psalms and was father to King Solomon.David’s Tomb stands in the ground-level room of a Crusader-era building. On the second floor of the same building is the Room of the Last Supper. The room holding David’s sarcophagus is used as a synagogue while the Upper Room is visited by Christians in memory of Christ’s Last Supper.David’s Tomb on Mt. ZionThe Crusaders built the present building that holds David’s cenotaph although three of the walls remain from an earlier synagogue-church that was used by Roman and Byzantine-era Jewish Christians. In the 14th century, the Franciscans renovated the structure before being ousted in the 16th century by the Muslims who converted the building into a mosque.Authenticity of the Tomb’s LocationThere has been much discussion of the authentic City of David’s burial site. It was only in the 9th century that Muslims documented the present site of David’s Tomb and in the 10th century pilgrims began visiting Mount Zion as the burial place of David. The Old Testament tells us that David was buried with his ancestors in the City of David. Archaeological excavations place the City of David south of Temple Mount and not on Mount Zion where the present tomb stands. The City of David was the original settlement that grew into Jerusalem. The extensive excavations of the City of David have not uncovered an alternate Tomb of David. Some have thought that David was buried in Bethlehem, a city also referred to as the City of David, but excavations in Bethlehem have not unearthed his tomb. Despite the fact that King David was probably not buried exactly at the present site of the tomb it is still a revered landmark and pilgrimage site for Christians, Jews and Muslims.Join our City of David & Underground Jerusalem Tour to visit king David's tomb.

The Room of the Last Supper (Upper Room; Coenaculum or Cenacle) is the traditional site where Jesus ate his last meal with his disciples. The event took place on the second floor of a building on Mount Zion, Jerusalem. The building we know today as the Cenacle dates back to the Crusader era but archaeological excavations show that houses would have stood here during Jesus lifetime. On the ground level beneath the Room of the Last Supper is the Tomb of King David. Join ourJerusalem Old City Tourto visit the Room of the Last Supper.The Room of the Last Supper in the BibleThe Bible tells how Jesus and his disciples ate the Passover meal here on the eve of Jesus’ arrest. The New Testament describes other events which occurred in the Cenacle including Jesus washing the disciples’ feet; Jesus’ appearance after his resurrection and the descent of the Holy Ghost to the disciples at Pentecost marking the birth of the Christian church.History of the Room of the Last SupperBeneath the Tomb of David archaeologists have uncovered the remains of a Byzantine structure destroyed in the 7th century by invading Persians. In the 12th century, Crusaders rebuilt the site. In 1187 the Crusaders left Jerusalem and Franciscans became the Cenacle custodians. The Ottomans arrived in the 16th century and converted the Upper Room into a mosque. Today Jews hold the ground floor Tomb of David sacred and Christians visit the Upper Room.Within the Room of the Last SupperThe rectangular Cenacle has a rib-vaulted ceiling supported by slender freestanding marble columns. The unique column capitals are mostly 12th century or Gothic in style. One scene carved into the capitals depicts a mother bird flanked by two young birds picking at her heart. This symbolizes charity and sacrifice. An Arabic wall inscription from 1524 AD describes how Sultan Suleiman turned the church into a mosque. From the same era, there is a stained-glass window featuring Arabic Koran verses; a Mihrab (prayer niche) and a staircase to the minaret. A stairway (no longer in use) descends to the Tomb of David and is covered by a small dome supported by marble columns.

Zion Gate is one of the gate entrances in the Jerusalem Old City walls; the walls were built in 1540 under Turkish leader Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent and surround the 1km² Old City. There are eight gateways (the Golden Gate remains closed). Zion Gate is on the southwestern corner of the Old City and gives direct access from Mount Zion to the Old City’s Armenian and Jewish Quarter.The Zion Gate is “L” shaped – you enter through the gateway, make a 90° turn under the stone archway and exit the gateway. This shape was chosen to increase security. The gate has a second floor equipped with defensive installations including a balcony above the entrance where boiling oil could be poured on the attacking enemy. Adjacent to the entrance is a small window in the stone wall with an arrow slit where guards could safely aim at their attackers.Where Did Zion Gate Get Its Name?The Zion Gate is named after Mount Zion which is directly outside the city walls adjacent to the gate. In Arabic, the gate is called Bab el Nebi Daud or “Gate of the Prophet David.” This is probably because King David is buried on Mt. Zion. The gate is also called “Bab Hart el Yahud” or Gate of the Jews, perhaps because it leads to the Jewish Quarter.The Wounded GateThe gate is also called the Wounded Gate as it bears the “scars” of bullet holes from the 1948 Israeli War of Independence. At the time Arab forces held the Old City’s Jewish Quarter under siege. Jewish forces attacked the Jordanian troops guarding the Zion Gate and in the exchange of fire hundreds of bullets left pockmarks in the stone wall around the gate. Although the Jewish fighters succeeded in taking the Jewish Quarter their gain couldn’t be held and they were forced to retreat leaving Jordan to occupy the Old City from 1948 to 1947 when the city was retaken by Israel. For the duration of the Jordanian rule the Zion Gate remained closed.To explore Jerusalem Old City and its gates, join our Jerusalem Old and New Tour.

Within Jerusalem Old City’s Jewish Quarter there is a complex of four Sephardi Synagogues each built at a different time and for different communities. In 1589 the Ottomans closed the Ramban Synagogue leaving Sephardi Jews (Jews from the Iberian Peninsula) with no place of worship. Until the four Sephardi synagogues were constructed between the 16th and 18th centuries. During the 1948 Arab-Israeli War the Jewish Quarter fell to the Jordanians. Under Jordanian occupation, the synagogues were left to deteriorate and used as stables. Following the Six Day War in 1967 the synagogues were restored and once again used for prayer.Yochanan ben Zakai SynagogueThis synagogue stands on the site of the Rabban Yochanan ben Zakai Beit Midrash. He was responsible for establishing the Sanhedrin in Yavneh in 70 AD. The building was constructed on land below street level in abidance with the Ottoman law that no Jewish place of worship would be higher than any mosque. The synagogue was the seat of the Chief Sephardi Rabbi during the Ottoman and British eras and was used for the inauguration of the Sephardic Chief Rabbi of Israel.Istanbuli SynagogueIn the 18th century, a group of Turkish Jews began using a building alongside the Yochanan ben Zakai Synagogue as their place of worship. Over the years more Eastern European Jews joined their congregation. A plaque commemorating the restoration of the synagogue in 1836 can be seen at the entrance. It is the largest of the four Sephardi synagogues and today is used by a community of Spanish and Portuguese Jews.Eliyahu Ha’navi SynagogueThis synagogue was constructed in the 16th century and is the oldest of the four synagogues. Today the synagogue is mainly used as a Beit Midrash (place of Torah study). Since the 18th century, the synagogue has been used by an Ashkenazi congregation.Emtsai SynagogueThe Emtsai Synagogue (Middle Synagogue) is the smallest of the four synagogues. Its location at the center of the complex was originally the Yohanan ben Zakai Synagogue courtyard. In the 18th century, the courtyard was given a roof and converted into an official synagogue.

Built in the 16th century by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, the Dung Gate (in Hebrew ‘Sha’ar Ha’ashpot) is one of seven open gates that provide entrance to the Old City of Jerusalem. Situated close to the southeast corner of the Old City, southwest of the Temple Mount, for several hundred years it was merely a tiny opening in the wall, but in 1952 it was enlarged by the Jordanians (who controlled the area between 1948 and 1967). After the Old City of Jerusalem was captured by Israel paratroopers in the Six-Day War, it was then renovated.The Dung Gate is known in Arabic as the Mughrabi Gate (Bab al-Magharibeh). The Mughrabis, who came from North Africa (the Maghreb), fought in Saladin’s army and then settled in this neighborhood of Jerusalem. In fact, for hundreds of years, they effectively controlled access to the approach to the Western Wall and forced Jews to pay bribes to visit there.The Dung Gate is also known as the Silwan Gate since it lies in close proximity to the Arab neighborhood of Silwan. Until medieval times, Silwan could be found within the walls of Jerusalem, but once the present walls were built, Silwan was separated from the rest of the city.As for the origin of the word ‘Dung’...well, residents of Jerusalem argue that the gate is so named because of all the scattered rubbish and soil thrown into the valley below, each time Jerusalem was destroyed. Indeed, from the First Temple onwards, it seems all of the ash and remains of sacrifices were taken out of the city via the Dung Gate and then burned in the Kidron Valley. The origin of the gate’s name is also mentioned in the Book of Nehemiah. Today, upon entering the Dung Gate, on your right you will find the Jerusalem Archaeological Park and Davidson Centre. Here you can gaze upon the ruins of walls, streets, gates, columns and ritual baths (mikve’ot). The entire site is reconstructed to look as it would have done 2000 years ago.Inside the gate, to the west, you can see what is left of the Eastern Cardo Maximus (‘the Cardo’), a busy and bustling thoroughfare from Ancient Roman times. This colonnaded street, which runs across Jerusalem from north to south, was once lined with shops and shopkeepers and served as the economic hub of the city. The Dung Gate is the most convenient of the Old City’s seven gates for visiting the Western Wall.Want to visit the Old City and go through the Dung Gate? Join our Jerusalem Old City Tour.

Jerusalem as a whole is often referred to as the City of David but it is in fact the name of the original Jerusalem settlement that now lies beneath the modern city of Jerusalem across the road from the walls of the Old City and Temple Mount.History of the City of DavidOver 3,000 years ago King David arrived on the hilltop that would become Jerusalem and established his city as the capital of the unified tribes of Israel. Over the years, Jerusalem grew while the original settlement was destroyed, rebuilt, conquered and settled many times over. The City of David became buried beneath growing Jerusalem and hidden until excavation began in 1860. The archaeological excavations are still underway and will continue at least until 2021.Visiting the City of DavidVisitors to the City of David are taken back 3,800 years with a 3D movie. Then the movie takes you through the city’s history illustrated by excavated artifacts and structures from different periods. Walking through the site you can see ancient excavated structures including David’s palace.Water Systems of the City of DavidYou can visit the 533m-long Hezekiah’s Tunnel that once brought water from the Gihon Spring to Jerusalem’s Pool of Siloam. The tunnel is mentioned in Kings II 20:20 and would have been carved out of rock in about the 8th century BC during the reign of King Hezekiah. This wonder of engineering uses the natural graduation of the land to convey water. The water system served Jerusalem for 1,000 years, even in times of siege.It was in 1867 that Cpt. Charles Warren discovered that a few meters into the tunnel from Gihon Springthe tunnel intersected with other tunnels. To the left is Hezekiah’s Tunnel flows to Siloam Pool and to the right a shorter tunnel leads to a vertical shaft connecting to further tunnels. The system was later named Warren’s Shaft. Visitors can explore the archaeological site of the City of David and take tours through the water tunnels. There is also the Hallelujah Sound and Light Show in the evening.To explore the City of David join our City of David Tour.

The Church of All Nations stands on the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem alongside the Garden of Gethsemane facing the walls of the Old City. The church commemorates the site where Jesus prayed on the eve of his crucifixion. The modern church stands out among the other churches on the Mt. of Olives thanks to the stunning mosaic that adorns the façade.History of the Church of All NationsThe present church was constructed on the remains of a 4th-century basilica and a 12th century Crusader chapel. The church construction was funded by donations from twelve different nations earning it the name “Church of All Nations.” However, the official name is Basilica of the Agony. The Roman Catholic church was designed by Antonio Barluzzi and completed in 1924.Features of the Church of All NationsThe main feature of the church is a mosaic supported by Corinthian columns above the entrance. In the predominantly gold mosaic, Christ is depicted as the connection between God and man. The Church of All Nations has a roof of twelve copulas giving it a bubble-like appearance. The overall impression of the church is neo-classical.Inside there are floor mosaics reminiscent of the earlier Byzantine church. The ceiling is painted a rich blue like the night sky with gold inlay stars evoking the view Jesus would have seen as he prayed. The inner side of the twelve cupolas is adorned with the coat-of-arms of the countries that contributed to the cost of construction. The church interior is divided into three aisles that lead to three apses. Mosaics illustrating Biblical scenes that took place in the Garden of Gethsemane cover the walls of the church and were paid for by each of the contributing nations.The interior is kept dark and solemn by violet-blue alabaster windows to emphasize Christ’s anguish. Beneath the altar is a rock believed to be where Jesus sat as prayed (Matthew 26:36 and Mark 14:32-42). In the church garden, there is an open-air altar used by a number of Christian denominations for prayer services and ceremonies.To visit the Church of all Nations, Join our Jerusalem Old City Tour.

The Church of Dominus Flevit lies on the western slope of the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem. The site is administered by the Franciscan church and marks the place where Jesus looked out across the Kidron Valley to the city of Jerusalem and the Temple Mount. Scripture tells us how Jesus envisioned the future destruction of Jerusalem and wept for the city’s fate.Where did the Church of Dominus flevit get its name?Dominus Flevit is Latin for “The Lord Wept.” In Luke 19:42 we read of how Jesus entered Jerusalem on the first Palm Sunday and stood here on the Mount of Olives where he wept as he looked out over Jerusalem. Jesus foresaw the destruction of Jerusalem and the Holy Temple that would come in 70 AD at the hands of the Romans.History of the Dominus Flevit Church SiteAncient Jewish tombs were discovered on the site where the present church now stands. In the 5th century a Byzantine church was built here and part of its mosaic floor can still be seen. The Byzantine church was destroyed and remained in ruins until the Crusaders built a chapel here. In the 16th century the El-Mansuria Mosque was built on this site and it has recently been rebuilt adjacent to the church. The Franciscan church purchased the land in the 1900s and commissioned the construction of the present church.Dominus Flevit TodayThe present church which marks this sacred Christian site was designed by Anton Barluzzi in 1954. The shape of the church resembles a tear drop, symbolizing Jesus’ tears. The most impressive feature of the church is the western window which faces the Old City and Temple Mount beyond. As visitors stand here they can look out over the holy city just as Jesus did almost 2,000 years ago. Beneath the church altar is a mosaic depicting a hen protecting her chicks beneath her wings. This image refers to Luke 13:34: “ Jerusalem… How often I have wanted to gather your children as a hen gathers her brood beneath her wings and you were not willing.”The Church is highly visited during the Palm Sunday feast. you can retrace the route Jesus took when entering Jerusalem by Joining our Jerusalem Palm Sunday Procession Tour.

This is one of the eight gates in the fortified outer walls of the Old City of Jerusalem, Israel. The gate is located on the north-eastern side of the city walls and within the walls the gate leads to the Via Dolorosa. The road within the walls is called the Lions’ Gate Road and runs in a westerly direction. The road passes the north side of Temple Mount and becomes Via Dolorosa Road. The gate faces out of the Old City towards the Mount of Olives and the Kidron Valley. Outside of the city walls the road which runs through the gate is the Jerusalem-Jericho Road which leads out through the Kidron Valley and beyond.The gate is called the Lions’ Gate because of the decorative stone carvings of lions on the exterior of the gate. Legend has it that the builder had a dream which inspired the lion motif. In Hebrew the gate is called Sha’ar HaArayot. The gate leads towards St. Anna Church and so can be called Santa Anna Gate. Another name in Arabic is Bab Sitna-Mariam or Saint Mary’s Gate as the nearby St. Anna Church was known as the Virgin Mary’s home. Saint Anna was the Virgin Mary’s mother. Yet another name for the Lions’ Gate is Yehoshafat Gate, a Christian name which refers to the nearby valley. The gate is also called Saint Stephen’s Gate after the first Christian martyr who is said to have been stoned at this gate as a punishment for blasphemy.The Lions’ Gate is believed to have been constructed in 1538/9 when Jerusalem was under Ottoman rule. In more recent history the Israeli forces defeated the Jordanian troops in the Six Day War and the Israeli’s entered the Old City through the Lions’ Gate. On the outer wall surrounding the gate entrance there are several interesting features. On either side of the gate is a pair of stone carved lions. Although the lion is a symbol of Jerusalem they are in fact meant to be leopards and were added to the structure by the Muslim Ottomans. The lions were added as a tribute to Mameluk Sultan Baibars who was also called the “Lion of Egypt and Syria”. This Ottoman leader successfully defeated the Crusaders and the Mongols. You can see an Arabic inscription on the inner wall above the gate. The inscription commemorates the construction of the city walls by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. This inscription was instrumental in dating the Lions’ Gate as it records the date of construction as 1538/9. Below the inscription is a carved design of the Star of David and on either side of the inscription are more decorative circular carvings.Want to visit the Old City and go through the Lion's Gate? Join ourJerusalem Old City Tour.

The Old City of Jerusalem is home to some of the most beautiful and unique churches in Israel and certainly the most important church of all, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. This is, according to the Orthodox and Catholic church, the place where Jesus Christ was crucifed, burried and resurrected. In 1982, the Old City was put on the List of Worldheritages in Danger by UNESCO. The site is at risk due to urbanization of its surroundings, mass tourism, and geopolitical issues.Church of the Holy Sepulchre.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinChurch of the Holy SepulchreThe largest and most important church in Jerusalem’s Old City is the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. It holds the 10th to 14th Stations of Cross along the Via Dolorosa which Jesus took on his route to his crucifixion. On this site Jesus was stripped (10th Station); nailed to the cross (11th Station); died on the cross on the Rock of Golgotha or Hill of Calvary (12th Station); taken down off the cross (13th Station ) and Jesus was laid to rest in his tomb or Sepulchre at the 14th Station. An early church on this site dates back to 333 AD but it was destroyed by the Persians about 300 years later and a new structure was constructed. This too was leveled in 1010 AD and under the Crusaders the church was rebuilt and inaugurated in 1149 AD. The church is shared by the Catholic, Greek Orthodox, Ethiopian, Coptic, Armenian, and Syriac Orthodox churches. The vast church is adorned with many stunning works of liturgical art, there are many small altars and individual chapels within the church but the focus of the structure is the large Rotunda where Jesus’ tomb is located. At the entrance to the church is the Stone of Anointing where Jesus’ body was laid after being removed from the cross. All major Christian events and festivals are celebrated in the church.Church of the Holy Sepulchre.Photo credit: © ShutterstockLutheran Church of the RedeemerThis German Lutheran Church of the Redeemer is in the Christian Quarter and was constructed in the 19th century on the site of a Crusader church; the Crusader gate was incorporated in the side of the present church. At one point the church functioned as a hostel and hospital for Crusaders. The first Chapel of St. John was constructed here in 1871 and in 1898 the Church of the Redeemer was built by Friedrich Adler. Above the entrance is the sign of the lamb of God and on one side is an eagle, the symbol of Imperial Germany while on the other side is the Maltese Cross, a symbol of the Crusader order of St. John. The church’s white square bell tower is 48 meters high making it the tallest tower within the Old City walls. It is possible to climb a spiral staircase within the tower for views across the city.German Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © ShutterstockChurch of St. John the BaptistThis Greek Orthodox Church and monastery of St. John the Baptist in the Christian Quarter consists of a 5th-century Byzantine church on a lower level and an upper dome and a double bell tower from the 11th century Crusader era. The lower church holds relics of John the Baptist and was destroyed in the 7th century. The Knights Hospitallers took over the site in the 11th century and used the space as a hostel and hospital. The Hospitallers were a military group of Christians charged with protecting the Holy Land. They saw the renovation of the church site. Again in 1839 the church and monastery were renovated.St. Anne’s ChurchSt Anne's Church, Jerusalem - believed to be the birthplace of Mary. This is a large building close to the Lions’ Gate adjacent to the Pools of Bethesda. The church was built during the Crusader era over the ruins of a 5th century Byzantine church. It is dedicated to the Virgin Mary’s mother Anne and father Joachim; Mary is believed to have been born in a cave-dwelling now located beneath the church in the church crypt. An inscription above the entrance dated 1192 tells of how Saladin converted the church to a school. The interior is divided into three halls by thick pillars supporting a vaulted ceiling.St Anne's Church, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © ShutterstockChapel of the FlagellationThis Catholic Franciscan church complex is situated at the 2nd Station along the Via Dolorosa where Roman soldiers flogged Jesus. The first chapel on this site was constructed in 1832 on land given to the Franciscans by the conquering Egyptians. It was rebuilt in the 1920s and designed by well-known Italian architect Antonio Barluzzi. A sealed gate entrance on the outer wall of the monastery is topped with a metal seal bearing the 5 cross symbol of the Franciscans and the arms of Jesus and St. Francis crossed over a crucifix. The church’s best features are the large stained glass windows on three sides of the church. The church of Condemnation is also accessed from the inner courtyard, it commemorates where Jesus was condemned and where he took up his cross. This church has 5 white domed roofs and large stained glass windows. The church interior is predominantly white with a colorful mural behind the altar and pink marble columns supporting the ceiling. Archaeological findings are displayed on the western wall outside the chapel and in the garden courtyard.Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinChurch of Our Lady of the SunLocated at the 4th Station along the Via Dolorosa this Armenian Church marks the place where Mary saw her son pass by carrying the cross. Within the church is a beautiful 5th-century mosaic floor, imprinted in the floor is the outline of two sandals said to be the footprints of Mary.Church of the Holy FaceChurch of the Holy Face - JerusalemThis small church is run by the Little Sisters, a Greek Catholic order, inside you can see restored Crusader arches.Monastery of St. CharalambosThis is a Greek Orthodox monastery located at the 8th Station along the Via Dolorosa.; it marks the place where Jesus comforted the lamenting women.Near the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © ShutterstockSt. James CathedralLocated in the Armenian Quarter,St. James Cathedral is dedicated to James the Great, one of the apostles, and James the Less, Jesus’ brother who was also the first bishop of Jerusalem. It is thought to have been built on the site where Herod killed James the Great. An inscription above the main entrance features the date 1488 but earlier churches on this site date back to the 6th century. The Armenians are famous for their intricate artwork, ceramics mixed with metals and stone and the church displays many stunning examples of their talents. This is also the site of the Armenian library where there are more than 4,000 illuminated manuscripts and the Church of St. Toros which is covered with brightly colored glazed tiles. The cathedral complex has several inner courtyards.Dei res-Sultan Ethiopian ChurchThe Ethiopian Christians have been a part of Jerusalem since the 4th century, this church which is situated on the roof of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre was the only Ethiopian church in the city until 1888 when the land was acquired outside the Old City walls and the Debra Gannet Monastery was built. The chapel is dedicated to St. Michael and the walls are adorned with brightly colored exotic pictures of the saint which date back 100 years. One of the paintings is of King Solomon meeting the Queen of Sheba who is believed to have come from Ethiopia. The ceiling of the church is covered with a starry night in blue, silver, and gold.Dei res-Sultan Ethiopian Church.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinChurch of Saint Alexander NevskyThis Russian Orthodox Church is located near to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the church is built over the remains of what is thought to have been the Judgment Gate where Jesus passed on his way to Golgotha. The church structure incorporates a section of the ancient Herodian city wall and a pagan temple constructed after 70AD. The plain stone structure is decorated with pictures of saints and icons, it is possible o see the remains of the Judgment Gate at the church.St. Mark’s Syriac Church and MonasteryLocated in the Armenian Quarter this church belongs to one of the oldest Christian denominations in the world. The Syriac Church practices the earliest known form of Christian liturgy and uses the Syriac language, which is a dialect of Aramaic, the language spoken by Christ. They believe that the church is located on the site of Mary of Jerusalem’s house, she was St. Mark’s mother, and the house features in the New Testament. The church is associated with the Last Supper, an appearance by Jesus following his resurrection and the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. Here you can see a Byzantine painting on the leather of Mary and Jesus; inscriptions on the walls and the rich embellishments of the church decoration. The 12th-century church was constructed on the site of a 4th-century place of worship which is located in the church crypt.To see the churches of the Old City of Jerusalem join one of multiple Jerusalem tours.Church of Saint Alexander Nevsky. Photo credit: © Dan Porges

Shabbat, put simply, is the centrepiece of Jewish life, wherever you live around the globe. It is a day of rest, occuring every week between Friday evening and Saturday evening, and although it is not technically a Jewish festival, it has great importance, because it is considered to be a holy time for religious Jews. For non-religious Jews, shabbat may not be celebrated as strictly, but it is still commonly observed and, for many, a lot of preparations are made to welcome it, especially when it comes to preparing meals.Challah bread for Shabbat.Photo byEvgeni TcherkasskionUnsplashWhat is Shabbat?Actually, some Jewish sages have even argued that the observance of the Jewish sabbath is the most important thing a Jew can do - more important than fasting on Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement) even. Shabbat literally means, ‘he rested’ in Hebrew and many rabbis have argued that without this ‘enforced’ period of rest each week, no creativity would be possible. And however seriously you take religion, the fact is there is a great purpose to a day of rest - it really makes sure that we don’t burn out.Why is Shabbat such an important day in Jewish law?Shabbat is incredibly important in Judaism because it commemorates God’s creation of the universe, as described in the Torah (the first five books of the Hebrew Bible), one of the most sacred Jewish texts). In the second of these, Exodus, we learn that Shabbat is a reminder of the day God rested, after six days of hard work. “Six days you shall work but on the seventh day you shall rest.” For this reason, Shabbat is considered a day of holiness and peace, hence the term ‘Shabbat shalom’ (‘a peaceful sabbath’) that Jews say to each other, in the lead-up to it. Shabbat also commemorates the events of the Exodus, when Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt, freeing them from slavery under the cruel Pharoah. Indeed, Shabbat is referred to in holy books as a ‘Queen’ whose presence graces every home on this day. Friday night services include psalms and the haunting melody of ‘Lecha Dodi’ (‘Come my Beloved’) in which Shabbat is referred to as a bride.Shabbat, therefore, is really a chance to stand back from the chaos of daily life and give pause before welcoming this ‘Queen’. And this is why many Jews make such an effort in their preparations for the day - wearing fine clothing, eating special foods, and ensuring that their homes are sparkling clean. After all, who would welcome royalty any other way? According to the Torah, the sabbath is a delight and if Jews observe it diligently, they will surely be afforded a place in the world to come. Entry of a synagogue in Jerusalem.Photo byLevi Meir ClancyonUnsplashWhen does Shabbat begin and end, both in Israel and around the world?The Jewish calendar is not solar, but solar-lunar, which means that all religious holidays/festivals in Israel and around the world begin at sunset. This is also the case with Shabbat, which begins at sunset on Friday evening and lasts until Saturday evening when three stars in the sky are visible. In terms of the exact time Shabbat begins, religious Jews tend to consult a calendar, according to where they are in the world, which gives the precise time of beginning and end (by the minute).Are there special rituals to welcome and say goodbye to Shabbat?Yes - and the most important is Shabbat candle lighting. Traditionally, it is the woman of the house who does this, around 18-22 minutes before Shabbat officially begins, as a way of ushering in this holy day. After the candles are lit, she will close her eyes, and recite a special prayer. Once this has been done, Shabbat has officially begun and no work can be carried out until its conclusion. (For more about what constitutes work, see below). After a short Friday night service, there will be blessings before dinner begins, made over two loaves of bread and a goblet of wine. The following evening, just before Shabbat ends, many Jews observe the ritual of ‘havdalah’. This means ‘separation’ in the Hebrew language, and is a way of distinguishing the holiness of this day from the rest of the week. Using wine (or grape juice), spices (often kept in a box), and a braided candle, the ritual concludes with the singing of ‘Eliyahu haNavi’ (‘Elijah the Prophet’), who Jews believe will usher in the age of redemption. Finally, everyone wishes each other ‘Shavua tov’ which means “May you have a good week to come.” Take a look at this fun video entitled ‘How to Havdalah’ to get a better idea of what goes on! Family of religious Jews dressed in black walks through the Old City of Jerusalem.Photo byMaayan NemanovonUnsplashWhat is a typical ‘Friday night’ Shabbat meal?Whilst there’s not one ‘typical’ food that’s served on Shabbat (because Jews from around the world have different culinary traditions) there are a few ‘tried and tested’ dishes that you might see on a Friday night table. You’ll always see challah (which is a braided semi-sweet bread) and sweet (‘kiddush’) wine, over which blessings are made. In the homes of Ashkenazi Jews (who originated from Eastern European), you’ll often be served delicacies such as chopped liver, gefilte fish, kugel, chicken soup, and cholent (a slow-cooked stew). In Sephardic homes (Jews who came from North Africa/Asia/Spain) you might be served stuffed vegetables, vine leaves, couscous, kibbeh (croquettes filled with lamb or minced beef), and baked cod and tahini cookies for dessert. Because of Jewish dietary laws, if you are served meat at a meal then there will be no dairy on the table…If you are invited to dinner, therefore, it’s good to check ahead to see if your hosts keep kosher (and if they are serving a meat meal, not to bring a dessert made from cream or butter…!) You can also play it safe by bringing flowers or a bottle of wine (most wines served in stores in Israel are kosher but you can always ask beforehand…)Freshly baked challah bread. Photo courtesy of www.freepik.comHow do Jews celebrate Shabbat in Israel?This is a good question and very much depends on how religious the family is. Although Israel is a ‘Jewish state’ and Jews are the majority of its population, not all Jews believe in God. However, it’s fair to say that it’s very traditional to attend a family dinner on Friday night. In a religious home, there will be singing and prayers; in a non-religious home, the kids may eat with their parents and then go out to a cafe or bar for the night! One thing that is for sure, however, is that from Friday night to Saturday night, it’s a time to relax. Religious Jews will attend prayer services at a synagogue on Shabbat morning, eat a lunchtime meal, and then a ‘seudah shlishit’ (third meal). Non-religious Jews may go hiking, meet friends for coffee, go to the beach, or simply chill out with Netflix. To each his own - since Shabbat is a day of relaxation and this means many things. Furthermore, if you spend a Shabbat in Jerusalem and then a second in Tel Aviv, you’ll really notice the difference. The majority of Jews in the capital observe Shabbat, and the majority of those in the ‘Non-Stop City’ don’t. That’s why, in Jerusalem, you’re more likely to see empty roads and families on their way to synagogue in the morning. And in Tel Aviv, you’re more likely to see people in coffee shops and restaurants, meeting friends for brunch, or heading off to swim, sunbathe or even join the folk dancing that goes on every Saturday morning on the promenade.Silver plated Shabbat candle holders. Image byRi ButovfromPixabayAccording to religious law, what activities are forbidden on Shabbat?This is another good question and the ‘list’ or forbidden activities is many. Essentially, there are 39 categories of things that are not permitted, including carrying, cutting, burning, writing, tearing, planting, harvesting, building, and weaving. There are certainly different interpretations of these laws, depending on how religious the Jewish person is, but - for sure - an observant Jew will not use a telephone, travel in a vehicle, watch television, or shop on this day. So is it forbidden to use electricity on Shabbat? To drive a car? To use money?According to the ‘halacha’ (religious Jewish law), all of the above are forbidden. This is why observant Jews will not carry a wallet on the way to synagogue on Shabbat, and always walk to and from prayers. In a religious Jewish home, timers will be set in advance, for lights to be turned on and off (so that there is no need to do so manually). Large water urns are heated beforehand, so tea and coffee can be made, and hot plates are de rigueur, in order to ensure food is not served up cold!The Western Wall in Jerusalem with an Israeli flag in the foreground. Photo byBenjamin RascoeonUnsplashAre there any exceptions to the list of things that are forbidden on Shabbat?Yes, - according to Jewish law (Halachah) it is not just allowed but considered mandatory to ‘break the rules’ on Shabbat if it is for the purposes of saving a life. Without a doubt, it is necessary to call a doctor or drive someone to receive medical attention, if they are taken ill on Shabbat. And, of course, many Orthodox Jews in Israel work as doctors and nurses in hospitals. Of course, whilst they are still giving care to patients, they will still refrain from things such as using their mobile phone (unless necessary) or switching on a light (they may ask someone who is not observant to do this for them).Another extremely interesting (and pertinent) example of violating Shabbat to save a life is of rabbis in Ukraine, recently, who spent Shabbat on the telephone in their offices. Throughout their holy day, they were busy organizing transport that would allow people in their city as quickly as possible (because of the military fighting in the vicinity).Shabbat candles.Image by @al-exfrom FreeImagesWhat kind of activities are encouraged on Shabbat?Shabbat, says the Hebrew Bible, is a time for relaxation, to put aside work and daily worries. It is a time to be with family and friends, to catch up with the week’s events, to read, eat, sleep, and basically wind down. Observant Jews will often take a walk in the afternoon or go and meet friends at their houses nearby. Jews who are traditional (but do not obey all restrictions) may drive to a nature park for a hike or picnic. In Israel, secular Jews flock to the beach for much of the year. The whole point of Shabbat, essentially, is to ‘switch off’ from the world and recharge your batteries, doing whatever you enjoy most.Are there buses and trains running in Israel on Shabbat?Although less than half of Israel’s Jewish population observe Shabbat to the letter of the law, since the establishment of the state there have been arguments about its nature, and if public transport should be allowed on this ‘day of rest.’ In most of the country, it’s not possible to use public transport (particularly in Jerusalem, where not only will there be no buses or light railway, but you may even struggle to find a taxi driving in the main city during the day - this is where phone apps come in handy! A Jewish boy praying by the Wailing Wall, Jerusalem. Photo byJonny GiosonUnsplashSo if you are planning on making a trip over the Friday-Saturday period and you don’t have your own car, you will have to plan accordingly. However, in recent years, in cities like Tel Aviv, which are much more liberal, new initiatives have come into force, organized by the local municipality. Beginning every Friday evening - around 6 pm - and continuing until Saturday evening - six different bus lines are operational. They run out to different suburbs from the center, all passing through major roads in Tel Aviv, and - even better - they are free of charge.Unlike regular bus services, they are a little less frequent (every 20-30 minutes) but it’s a pretty effective system, for instance, if you are in north Tel Aviv and don’t want to walk all the way to Jaffa on Saturday morning (which would take 50-60 minutes) you can simply hop on a bus on Dizengoff Streetandbe dropped off either at the Jaffa Port or the Clock Tower, close to the Jaffa Flea Market area. The same is true if you’re staying in the suburbs of Ramat Gan and Herzliya - there are buses that will bring you straight into the center of Tel Aviv.Are there any organized tours that run on Shabbat?Absolutely. Whilst there are tours dedicated specifically to Jewish themes (and some of them are built around Shabbat in Israel) you can always find day trips around Israel and tour packages where exploration will continue on Saturdays. Many of our Jerusalem tours (especially walking tours in the Old City) take place every day, not to mention excursions to Bethlehem, the Dead Sea, Masada, and the Judean desert (where Bein Harim offers jeep tours for the adventurous).Havdalah set with kiddush cup, spice cup, and candle holder. Image by @tovflafromFreeImagesCan I attend a Shabbat service, whilst in Israel?Again, yes. In fact, many synagogues will be happy to invite you along, whether you are Jewish or not. Of course, it might be advisable to call ahead first, just to check on formalities, but it’s quite likely that if you talk to someone in the congregation, you will also, afterward, be invited to a Shabbat meal (Israelis are extremely friendly and hospitable people!) There are many places to attend Kabbalah Shabbat Friday night prayer services, not just in the big cities but also in small communities. Many of the synagogues have websites where you can find email addresses and if you call up, most people have a decent command of English. Also, remember to dress appropriately according to how observant of Jewish law the community is - if it is an orthodox synagogue, a woman might be comfortable wearing a dress instead of pants. Enjoy your Shabbat in Israel and if you’d like more information about our Private Jewish Tours or Jewish tour packages around the Holy Land, don’t hesitate to contact us.Religious Jew with tefillin on his forehead prays in the Old City of Jerusalem.Photo byMaayan NemanovonUnsplash

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.Pro Tip: Many Christian communities choose to visit the Holy Land as a group. It’s the best way to optimize your itinerary, gain deeper historical insights, and share a meaningful spiritual journey together.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