Historical Highlights from Israel
Many people who come to Israel are at least aware of its historical and religious significance. For me, I was interested in the religious aspect of the country as much as the bohemian elements that make this country so unique. Here are a few highlights from my trip.
Haifa & Akko
Located in the north of Israel, Haifa is the country’s third largest city with The Bahá’í Gardens serving as the most important religious site for the Bahá’í people. Akko is the ancient Phoenician and Crusader seaport and is designated as a world heritage site by UNESCO. While many travelers tend to skip Akko, I definitely recommend taking a tour of the secret city, the fishermen’s port and Turkish bazaar.
Jerusalem – The Old City
An important city for Christians, Jews and Muslims alike, Jerusalem often requires more time than other large cities. Most of the historic monuments are located in the Old City including the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, The Western Wall and Dome of the Rock. The New City has an eclectic series of cafes, restaurants, bars and dance clubs. Jerusalem is a walkable city, making it relatively easy to travel between the Old and New cities.
Galilee & Tiberias
There are several sites located near the Sea of Galilee that are worth a visit. The Yigal Alon Museum at Ginosar houses a First Century wooden sailing boat found by two brothers in the Sea of Galilee. An important event in Christianity, the Mount of Beatitudes is also located nearby. Tiberias is a historical resort town along the Sea of Galilee and one of Israel’s four holy cities. We didn’t spend too much time here but it does have a nice beach front with many bars, restaurants and shops.
The Dead Sea & Masada
It’s hard to come to Israel and not make a detour to swim in the Dead Sea. The large amount of salt causes people to float, making for many touristy yet amusing photographs. Close to the Dead Sea is Masada, a mountain and fortress with a very interesting story. Built by King Herod, Masada was the last stronghold in the Jewish revolt against the Romans in 73 CE. The men of Mesada chose death over slavery to the Romans, killing their families before the attack.
Caesarea & Capernaum
Speaking of ancient ruins, Caesarea National Park is a day trip in itself, although we stopped by for just a few hours. Here, you can visit the remains of the Roman theatre, hippodrome, bathhouse and Herodian port – all part of the old Crusader city and former Roman Capital. Capernaum is an old Jewish fishing village and the place where Jesus began his Ministry. The site includes ruins of the ancient synagogue, church and original stones from this era.
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18 Comments
Thought I am not religious but had amazing trip to Israel. It is hard to believe how much happened on such small peace of land. Qumran is also interesting place to visit on the way to Masada.
Vi recently posted..Sri Lanka in five days. Day 5
I feel the same! For such a small country, there is a ton of amazing history. I went to Masada but don’t think I made it to Qumran.
Megan recently posted..Historical Highlights from Israel
I’d love to visit Israel some day. The religious and political history is fascinating…. and plus I want to swim in the Dead Sea.
Christy @ Technosyncratic recently posted..Thien Cung Grotto: the Gaudiest Limestone Cave in Vietnam
You should! It’s a wonderful country
Megan recently posted..A Day in Palestine
This country have wide variety of vacations places to visit, amazing landscape, & ancient history & sculpture to see. Thanks
It sure does!
Megan recently posted..Local Life Along the Elbe
There are so many great historical sights in Isreal… each of those places you mentioned could have a couple of posts just to itself!
You are very right about that Jade!
Megan recently posted..Local Life Along the Elbe
Wow, those gardens are beautiful!
Brock – Backpack With Brock recently posted..Snapshot: Florence, Italy – My First Italian City
I know! Haifa was probably my favorite city that I visited in Israel and very unexpectedly so.
Megan recently posted..Circus Hostel Berlin
Never been on my list to go there but you make it sound tempting now
Natalie – Turkish Travel recently posted..Patriotic Turks, Their Flag, and the EU
Some of these places weren’t on my list either life Haifa for example and that ended up being my favorite city on our trip!
Megan recently posted..Circus Hostel Berlin
I’ve always wanted to do a Holy Land tour, and these photos inspire me even more. I can imagine Haifa is quite impressive. Thanks for sharing!
The Time-Crunched Traveler (Ellen) recently posted..Why the world’s largest, continuously running market left me unimpressed
Thanks Ellen! Haifa was absolutely stunning. I really hope you make it to Israel.
Megan recently posted..Cultural Highlights from Germany
Looks like a place I’d love visiting someday. Thanks for sharing
Brooke Vs the world recently posted..A Kyrgyz Drink Shocking Travelers’ Taste Buds (with video)
Glad I could help
I hope you make it there one day Brooke!
Megan recently posted..Cultural Highlights from Germany
Hi Magen ,
lovely post , in fact , i am not sure we would have done it better ourselfs and we are highlights tours of Israel
Wow – great to hear Noam!
Megan Eileen McDonough recently posted..How to Feel Boho Chic When Flying Coach