In Part One, we toured
the northern region of Israel, focusing on Nazareth and Jerusalem. Today, we
will head outside of Jerusalem, toward Tel Aviv, and then down south.
Bethlehem
A Christian tour to
the Holy land would not be complete without a visit to one of the most sacred
Christian sites - Bethlehem. Home to one of the largest Palestinian-Christian
communities, it is the site of the Church of the Nativity, the birthplace of
Jesus. The focal point of the Church is the Grotto of the Nativity, the exact
place Jesus is thought to have been born. An inscribed silver star on the floor
marks the precise spot of the birth. Christmas, of course, is high season in
Bethlehem and the city is filled with both locals and tourists attending
Christmas rites and processions, which pass through Manger Square. Bethlehem is
also home to Rachel's Tomb, and is the site of the birthplace and coronation of
King David.
Neot Kedumim
Enjoy an invigorating
trip into the ancient past through the unique perspective of nature. Neot
Kedumim is a biblical nature reserve located in the center of Israel, in the
Ben Shemen forest, not far from the birthplace of the Macabees. Dedicated to
bringing Biblical flora and fauna to life, Neot Kedumim boasts unique plants,
flowers, and animals that are mentioned in the Bible, allowing you a glimpse of
life as it was in ancient times. Visit the reconstructed olive and grape presses,
and even take a turn pulling the giant press yourself!
St. Peter's Church
With its distinctive
brickwork and towering belfry, St. Peter's Church is easy to spot in the city
of Old Jaffa, part of greater Tel Aviv. Step inside the church and admire the
exquisite stained glass windows, which depict episodes from the life of St.
Peter. The church is open to the public every day, and Masses are conducted in
five different languages. Take the time to look around Old Jaffa, one of the
most interesting and scenic cities anywhere.
Massada
Heading south, out of
Jerusalem, toward the Dead Sea, stop at Massada, the ancient fortress
overlooking the Dead Sea. Built by Herod the Great as a refuge for himself, it
became just that for Jews rebelling against the Romans after the destruction of
the Second Temple. Make your way to the top of Massada on foot via the Snake
Path (best done early in the day), or take a cable car to avoid the hot (and we
mean hot!) walk. Take a peek inside the Roman-style bathhouses, ancient
synagogues, as well as wall paintings from Herod's palace. Twice a week, a
spectacular, surreal sound and light show highlights the history of Massada,
and in 2007 a new museum opened up at the site.
Ein Gedi
Are you hot and sweaty
from your hike up Massada? Time to visit beautiful Ein Gedi, located in the
Dead Sea region, renowned for its refreshing waterfalls and exotic flora and
fauna. Mentioned in the Song of Songs, it is a thriving oasis set against a
harsh desert. Watch a family of ibex tiptoe quietly by, as they peer
interestedly at you. Splash around in the cool water of the lakes and
waterfalls that dot the trail. There is also a nearby kibbutz offering various
tourist attractions throughout the year.
Beersheba
Beersheba, the
"Gateway to the Negev," is the capital of the southern portion of
Israel, and is one of the most ancient cities in Israel, boasting a history
which dates back to the patriarch Abraham. On your next Christian tour to the
Holy land, we recommend you visit Tel Beersheba, a fascinating archaeological
site right outside the city. Within the city, you can visit the Negev Museum of
Art, the Center for Ethiopian Craftsmanship, and the famous Bedouin market, in
which modern goods are offered right next to authentic, unique Bedouin items.
Whether in the north,
south, east, or west of the Holy Land, you are in the birthplace of
Christianity, immersed in ancient traditions, walking in the literal footsteps
of Jesus and the Apostles. You will leave feeling connected to Christianity in
a new and profound way - and you will leave wanting to book your next
trip…soon!
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