Israel is an fantastic country to visit, whatever your background and faith, but for Christians there is incredible significance in making a journey to the Holy Land. Whether wandering through the narrow streets of the Old City of Jerusalem and gazing at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, visiting the Basilica of the Annunciation in Nazareth, where the Angel Gabriel informed Mary she was with child, or exploring the Galilee, where Jesus spent many of his later years ministering, the experience is usually a very profound one.An NRSV Bible open to the title page of the New Testament. Photo byTim WildsmithonUnsplashOf course, as well as the ‘must see’ Christian holy sites in Israel, there are also many places more out-of-the-way, which are imbued with religious significance. One of these is Emmaus and although it is not particularly well-known, it has a fascinating history. Not only is it linked to the resurrection of Jesus but, in recent times, archaeologists have excavated remains that point to it possibly being the site where the Ark of the Covenant was placed. Let’s take a look at the background of this place to try and understand more about its significance for scholars, archaeologists, and also modern-day Christian pilgrims.Etymology: What does Emmaus mean?The name ‘Emmaus’ is thought to be a Hellenized (Greek) version of the Hebrew name Hammath. The name Hammath comes from the root חמם (hamam), meaning to be warm and in modern-day Hebrew is used to describe hot springs. A spring of Emmaus (Greek: Ἐμμαοῦς πηγή), or alternatively a 'spring of salvation' ( πηγή σωτήριος) can be found in Greek sources. Emmaus is mentioned by this name in two Midrashim (Rabbinic/Biblical interpretations) - Midrash Zuta for Song of Songs and Midrash Rabbah for Lamentations and Ecclesiastes. Historically, Emmaus was a relatively common name in the Levant and even today, across the Middle East, many sites are called Hama, Hammath (e.g. Hamat Gader), and other variations on this theme.Silhouettes of man and woman near a cross. Photo byJunior REISonUnsplashEmmaus in the Christian BibleEmmaus is mentioned in the third of the Gospels (the Gospel of Luke) as the place at which Jesus appeared to his disciple Cleopas and a friend, who were walking on the road from Jerusalem to Emmaus (possibly a distance of between 10-12 km). According to Luke, the story takes place on the day of Jesus’ resurrection. The two disciples had heard that the tomb where Jesus had been buried was now empty and were discussing the matter. Luke goes on to state:And it happened that while they were speaking and debating, Jesus himself drew near and walked with them, but their eyes were prevented from recognizing him … as they approached the village to which they were going, he gave the impression that he was going on further. But they urged him, "Stay with us, for it is nearly evening and the day is declining." So he went in to stay with them. And it happened that, while he was with them at table, he took bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them. With that their eyes were opened and they recognized him. Luke also recounts that after the three of them ate supper at Emmaus, Jesus scolded the two of them for their lack of belief and taught them about the prophecies of the Messiah. Emmaus is not mentioned in the Gospels of Matthew or John; in the Gospel of Mark a similar story is mentioned, but with no particular reference to Emmaus.Red Bible on a wooden table. Photo byTim WildsmithonUnsplashWhere was the exact location of Emmaus?Historians have debated this question hotly for many years and the answer is, we don’t really know because references to its precise location are quite vague and in manuscripts of the Christian Bible there are references to at least three different distances between Emmaus and Jerusalem. Among the contenders are the sites of Emmaus Nicopolis / Imwas, Al-Qubeiba / Castellum Emmaus / Chubebe / Qubaibat, Kiryat Anavim / Abu Gosh, Coloniya, El-Kubeibeh.Emmaus Nicopolis / ImwasThis site is the oldest of the possible locations and, today, many Christian pilgrims regard Emmaus-Nicopolis as the place at which the disciple Cleopas and his friend encountered Jesus after he had risen from the dead. It was Eusebius of Caesarea who first raised the idea of Nicopolis as the site of Emmaus.Eusebius was a Greek historian whose account of the first centuries of Christianity is a landmark text for historians. Jerome, who later translated Euebius’ book, insinuates that there was a church in Nicopolis, built in the house of Cleopas, and this was where Jesus and the two disciples broke bread together. Other sources that talk of Emmaus include the first book of the Maccabees, the writings of the Roman historian Josephus and accounts from the late Roman, Byzantine, and early Muslim eras.In the modern era, it was the explorer Edward Robinson who was first said to have found the location of Emmaus - he believed it was the Arab Palestinian village of Imwas, close to the Latrun Monastery. Imwas was destroyed in 1967 but before then it was situated close to the Judean hills, about 23 km from Jerusalem via the Kiryat Yearim ridge.Latrun Trappist Monastery, Israel.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinThe Walk of EmmausToday, many of these pilgrims, as a way of recreating this journey, set out to walk the route called the ‘Emmaus Hike’. This begins at the Saxum Visitor Centre (just outside of the village of Abu Gosh), runs for 20 kilometers, and has a number of different trails. Just as interesting, part of the route pilgrims take today was once a Roman road that connected Jerusalem with the port of Jaffa, and it is more than 2,000 years old. Along the trail, there are a number of interesting archaeological sites, including the remains of a Byzantine basilica.Al-Qubeiba / Castellum Emmaus / Chubebe / QubaibatAnother possible location for Emmaus is the town of Al-Qubeiba, northwest of Jerusalem. In Arabic, it means ‘Little Domes’. In 1099, a Roman fort by the name of Castellum Emmaus was discovered there although historians do not believe it was named ‘Emmaus’ at the time Jesus lived. By the 12th century, the Crusaders had named the site ‘Small Mahomeria’ (as opposed to ‘Large Mahomeria’ which stood near Ramallah). In 1335, the site was taken over by the Franciscans, who began organizing pilgrimages there each year and in 1902 built a church there.By the Second World War, the British Mandate held prisoners of Italian and German heritage at Emmaus Qubeibeh and between 1940-1944, the archaeological Bellarmino Bagetti carried out excavations there. He found a number of artifacts from different periods - Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Crusader - and subsequently carried out some explorations.Olive groves around Latrun, Israel.Photo credit: ©Dmitry MishinAbu Ghosh / Kiryat AnavimThe village of Abu Gosh is situated about 12 km from Israel’s capital, in the middle of the Kiryat Yearim Ridge, with Nicopolis on one side and Jerusalem on the other. The explorer Edward Robinson (see above) estimated that it dates back to the Crusader era and considered it to be the best-preserved ancient church in Palestine. When the 1940s excavations were carried out, archaeologists found ‘Fontenoid’ which was a site the Crusaders regarded as Emmaus, before they reconsidered and accepted Nicopolis as the ‘authentic’ Emmaus.Abu Gosh itself is situated in an area of Israel where some of the earliest humans lived - excavations have shown habitation dating back to the Neolithic period. Today it is famous for its excellent hummus (many Israelis will admit to having driven long distances to eat there) and its famed choral music festival, taking place twice a year, in the spring and the fall.In this festival, choirs and musicians not just from Israel but across the world come to perform in two of the churches in Abu Gosh. As has been commented, the opportunity for Jews to visit a Muslim community and hear music in a Christian place of worship is really an excellent example of working towards peace. Judean Hills, Israel. Photo byBenjamin GrullonUnsplashEmmaus / Colonia / Motza / Ammassa / Ammaous / Khirbet MizzaSituated between Jerusalem and Abu Gosh, also on the Kiryat Yearim Ridge Route, is Colonia. It was referred to in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Joshua, as ‘Mozah’ and in the Talmud as a place where people came to cut down tree branches to celebrate the harvest festival of Sukkot. The historian Joseph Flavius wrote in ‘Antiquities of the Jews’ about the Maccabean Revolt, and in this instance mentions a city named Emmaus, which seems to link up with the idea of Emmaus being Nicopolis (in terms of its distance from Jerusalem). However, in ‘The Jewish War’ he talks of a second location from Emmaus, where Roman legions settled after the First Jewish Revolt. Latin manuscripts talk of ‘Amassa’ and Greek manuscripts ‘Ammaous’ but once the Roman legions (‘colonia’) had arrived, these names were soon forgotten. The name ‘Colonia’ survived for a long time - the Jerusalem and Babylonian Talmud both refer to ‘Qeloniya’ (the Aramaic term for Colonia) and in Arabic, the name still exists, in the form of ‘Qalunya’. In 1881, William Birch (who was part of the Palestine Exploration Fund) identified what he called ‘Motza’ as the Emmaus mentioned in the Gospel of Luke. Less than 2km to the north is a ruin named Khirbet Beit Mizza, which some scholars believe to have been the biblical Mozah. Contemporary excavations now place Mozah at Khirbet Mizza.The Gospels set from Alabaster Co.Photo byLauren KanonUnsplashTouring Emmaus todayNorth of Emmaus’s church complex you can find a very well-preserved Roman bath complex. Archaeologists believe it is in such a good state because the structure was considered holy by Muslim conquerors, and built a cemetery around its edges over the years. It is possible to visit Emmaus today by car - the entry fee is very small and it is just off Highway 1. Alternatively, it is possible to take a private tour of Jerusalem and/or the Judean Hills area - you will be able to customize the tour exactly to your needs and visit there for as long as you desire.

Lying at the very bottom of Israel, nestled on the coast of the Red Sea, lies the city of Eilat. Today, a premier vacation spot, it wasn’t always this way - indeed, until the 1970s it was nothing more than a quiet fishing village. However, as Israel became an increasingly popular tourist destination, this tiny spot began growing into the resort it is today - complete with luxury Eilat hotels, excellent cafes and restaurants, and all kinds of attractions.Eilat Coral Beach, Israel. Photo credit: © Doron Nissim. Published with permission of the Israel Nature and Parks AuthorityYear-Round Sun and Year-Round Fun!And with its year-round warm climate, it’s the perfect place for anyone (Israeli or tourist) to head if they’re seeking sunshine, beaches, warm waters and plenty of fun, both for kids and adults. The Eilat weather is a big draw too - in the winter months, temperatures are extremely pleasant (between 21 and 25 degrees in the day), which makes it an ideal place to escape grey winter climes. And in the summer, even though it’s the hottest spot in Israel, it’s still a popular place to head for some ‘R&R’...Long Weekends and Chillout Vacation in EilatSince Israel’s a small country, travelling the length and breadth of it is not too difficult. Eilat is within easy travel distance of both Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, where many tourists spend their time. Public buses run regularly (and are inexpensive), driving down from the centre of Israel to the tip will take around 5 hours and flying directly between Ben Gurion airport and Eilat Ramon airport is circa 45 minutes. So it really is a place you can visit for a long weekend! Below we’re taking a look at some of the most popular things to do in Eilat, from water sports to camel riding, jeep tours and hiking in the nearby mountains, and even hopping over the border to Jordan, to visit the lost city of Petra or explore the fascinating Wadi Rum desert, made famous by Larence of Arabia.Reefs at Eilat Coral Beach, Israel. Photo credit: © Assaf Zvuloni. Published with permission of the Israel Nature and Parks Authority1. Underwater Observatory ParkFor anyone interested in marine life (young or old) this has got to be on your list of ‘must see’ things in Eilat. The Underwater Observatory Park is a fantastic way to learn about life under the sea without even getting wet, and there are enough displays inside to keep you occupied for ages!There are over 35 aquariums (with more than 800 species of rare fish and marine creatures), some of them only found in Eilat! Kids also love the ‘Shark Pool Complex, where - as they walk through a transparent tunnel - it's possible to gaze at these astonishing creatures, up close and personal!The observatory is also home to manta rays, giant turtles, jellyfish and even the Googly-Eyed Glass Squid. It’s hard to believe that you’re just six metres below sea level, as you watch so many species in their natural habitat. For an additional cost, you can also take a trip out in one of their glass-bottomed boats, or visit the ‘Aquadome’ and learn more about the humpback whale. Wow…2. Eilat Coral Beach Nature ReserveThe Eilat Coral Beachnature reserve is also a national park and the northernmost shallow-water coral reef in the world. Extending for 1,200 metres off the coast of Eilat, it is an ideal place for snorkelers and divers to explore marine life - its delicate natural habitat is full of colourful fish as well as astonishing plants. On land, the beach is well cared for and the nature reserve guards helpful, the showers and restrooms are clean and pleasant and there’s also a snack bar. Underwater enthusiasts…this attraction is for you!People getting ready for snorkellingat Eilat Coral Beach, Israel. Photo credit: © Doron Nissim. Published with permission of the Israel Nature and Parks Authority3. Dolphin Reef in Eilat, IsraelEilat’s ‘Dolphin Reef’ has got to be on your bucket list - it’s a magical, extraordinary and unique way of enjoying a few hours with these magnificent creatures, watching them frolic and swim that’s not just natural but also belongs to them. The ‘reef’ is home to a number of bottlenose dolphins (as well as their offspring) who ‘choose’ to live here (i.e. there are no nets to keep them in). The owners have done this deliberately, to foster the idea that the bond created between visitors and dolphins is truly authentic.Once you’ve entered, there’s a secluded beach, hammocks and structures where you can sit and wait for the dolphins to appear - some will swim up to you, so you can actually pet them. It’s possible to sit very close by and watch, as they are fed. It’s also a wonderful place to relax, with a book, or a drink from the beach bar, staring out at the Red Sea.It’s possible to snorkel in the area (and there’s plenty to see) and for the truly hooked, there’s also the opportunity to dive with the dolphins…you’ll get a wetsuit and flippers and be taken out by a professional. The Dolphin Reef is perfect for a day out - whether you’re a family with young children, a couple who are looking for something romantic to do or simply someone who loves these intelligent and adorable animals.Dolphin Reef Beach, Eilat, Israel. Photo bySilviu GeorgescuonUnsplash4. Camel Riding in Eilat, IsraelTaking a camel ride is something many people dream about when planning a trip to Israel. Well, just a few kilometres from Eilat’s the Red Sea are mountains and deserts, so this is a no brainer. The ‘Eilat Camel Ranch’ offers visitors the chance to take a journey through the Arava desert, enjoying clean air, panoramic views and tranquillity. The silence as you trek is extraordinary - and all the camels they use are female (apparently more well-behaved than the males!), well-fed and trained, and very friendly. Visitors can choose from four different treks - we’d recommend the two-hour sunset ride, with a cheese platter to follow!P.S. For serious adrenalin junkies, they also offer a ‘Rope Line’ which consists of 700 metres of routes, including swings, climbing nets and ziplines.5. Snorkelling and Diving in Eilat, IsraelEilat is a veritable paradise for anyone who likes to snorkel or dive. All the way down from Coral Beach nature reserve to the border with Egypt is full of coral and just a few metres down, you’ll be able to see as much as if you were 30 metres below! When you dive in Eilat, you can also walk straight into the water - so no boat is necessary.Freediver-girl snorkelling across the sea.Photo by Israel Gil on UnsplashBecause the water is so clear, in one short dive you might see a host of tropical fish and dolphins besides! Although Israel only has a tiny part of the Red Sea (compared to other surrounding countries), it’s pretty magical. If you’ve already passed your test and have a PADI licence, it’s very easy to rent tanks and other equipment from one of the many dive centres in the area. You can, of course, just dive with your buddy but there are many trained guides who can take you out to spectacular places, including some wrecks.Two of the best of the wrecks, we think, are Satil and Yatush. Satil was an Israeli navy speedboat from the 1960s, and today is home to numerous schools of fish. You can explore the missile launching area, the bridge and the engine room. Yatush is deeper down (around 28 metres), so you’ll have less time to spend there, but that gives you ample opportunity to enjoy the tropical fish and corals when you descend. Prepare to be overwhelmed - Eilat’s waters contain so many species, including triggerfish, clownfish, butterflyfish, lionfish, scorpionfish, frogfish, sea snakes, moray eels, octopus and barracuda. Some lucky divers might even spy a whale shark in the summer months. And because the water is so clear, you won’t feel deprived if you’re simply snorkelling, rather than diving. Grab those fins, masks and tanks…Red sea, Eilat, Israel.Photo byVitaliy PaykovonUnsplash6. Jeep Tours in the MountainsIf you’re the adventurous type, then we’d definitely recommend a jeep tour into the Eilat mountains, with a 4x4 vehicle. Driven by a professional and knowledgeable guide, you’ll spend several hours exploring desert landscapes in the Eilat Mountains, including the Red Canyon, Doum Palms, Ein Evrona Nature Reserve, Wadi Raha, and the Flamingo Pools. If you go later in the day, you may also be able to spot animals that only come out into the desert once the sun sets…7. Visit Jordan - Petra, Wadi Rum & AqabaEilat is just a hop, skip and a jump from the border with Jordan, so why not consider making a trip to one of Israel’s neighbours? Jordan’s most popular attraction, by any stretch of the imagination, is Petra, which - located in the south of the country - is just two hours drive from the border, making a day trip to this Lost City quite possible. Wadi Rum, Jordan. Photo byLior DahanonUnsplashIf you take a Petra tour and leisure day in Eilat, you can combine fun and history! After sunbathing, coral reef exploration and some cocktails at sunset, spend the next day exploring this Nabatean gem, complete with Treasury, Monastery and rose coloured rock formations. Wadi Rum - this astonishingly beautiful dessert is also known as the ‘Valley of the Moon’ and is a valley cut into sandstone rock and granite. It was made famous by Lawrence of Arabia and is home to caves, canyons and springs. It is a great destination for adventurous travellers, since you can hike, rock climb, take 4x4 jeep tours and horse rides. It’s also popular to sleep there in Bedouin camps, where traditional dinners are provided.Aqaba - Just a 12-minute drive from the Yitzhak Rabin border, Aqaba makes an ideal day trip. Like Eilat, it’s situated on the Red Sea and offers the visitor an interesting combination of city life, beach life and history. Like its neighbour, it’s also a good place to enjoy water sports and sunbathing and there are also plenty of shops, as well as places to eat authentic local food.Al-Khazneh (The Treasury), Petra, Jordan.Photo bySnowscatonUnsplash8. Desert explorationThere’s plenty to see in the nearby desert including: Timna, one of the Arava desert’s most popular attractions and no wonder. About 25 km north of Eilat (a short drive, by bus or rental car), it sits in 15,000 acres in a valley shaped like a horseshoe, surrounded by dramatic steep cliffs. As you hike around, you’ll see wondrous rock formations, naturally formed millions of years ago (look out for ‘the mushroom’) as well as an ancient copper mine. Unbelievably, there’s also a lake (yes, a lake!) at which you can take shade. Yotvata Hai-Bar - About 35 minutes drive from Eilat (by bus or car) lies the Hai-Bar, a phenomenal nature project, designed to bring back animals to this area that were once extinct in Israel (particularly the Arabian oryx and Asian wild ass). Spread out over 3,000 acres, it is home to snakes, Griffon vultures, sand cats and even spotted leopards. The Hai Bar is divided into three areas. The first is where herbivorous creatures live, the second includes carnivores such as wild cats, hyenas and leopards (as well as birds of prey and lizards/snakes) and the third is a darkroom area, where you can watch creatures in their nocturnal state (such as bats). Because the reserve is open only during the day, the hours are reversed, so you will see activity!Hai-Bar Yotvata Nature Reserve, Israel.Photo credit: © Doron Nissim. Published with permission of the Israel Nature and Parks Authority9. Hiking in the Red Canyon, IsraelThe Red Canyon provides hikers with an easy and accessible trek, with the ‘classic’ trail just 2 km (which means you can take kids along). Just a 20-minute drive north of Eilat, it gives you the opportunity to enjoy natural canyons. Named because when the sun hits the sandstone, it turns a reddish colour, it’s amazing to think that these rocks were carved by wind and water over thousands of years.Our tip: if you want a hike that’s a little more challenging, follow the ‘black trail’ (which goes along two creeks and affords wonderful photo opportunities). This trail should take about 1 hour 30 minutes to complete.10. Shopping in Eilat, IsraelWhen all else fails, why not go shopping? Eilat has a reputation for being the cheapest place in Israel to shop - that’s because it’s in a free trade zone which is exempt from VAT. This means that prices here are very competitive, so whether you’re in the market for beach attire, Judaica, Dead Sea products or Medjool dates from one of the nearby kibbutzim, the bill is most likely going to be cheaper than anywhere else in Israel. Get out your wallet!Moutains near Eilat.Photo byGregory AtkatsonUnsplash

When visitors arrive in Israel today, they are often surprised to see an incredibly modern country, with gleaming highrises, raved-about cuisine, renowned academic and scientific institutions, and a booming hi-tech industry. Stereotypes about locals riding around on camels and not speaking English are quickly crushed as they realize that Israel is at the forefront of so much innovation, particularly the bustling beach city of Tel Aviv, with its 24/7 action.View of Tel Aviv from Jaffa. Photo byReiseuhuonUnsplashWhat makes this even more amazing is that Israel is an incredibly young country - not even an octogenarian in people terms! Created in May 1948, a huge amount has been achieved in these 73 years and who knows what lies ahead? But what about important historical events in Israel long ago?The fact is that whilst Israel, in many respects, is an incredibly modern country but it’s steeped in extraordinary history - it’s everywhere you go, in its seaports, Herodian cities, Crusader castles, Roman defenses, and Old City walls. Ancient Israel is thousands of years old, and in the time before it took for David Ben Gurion to declare independence in Tel Aviv, a great deal happened.We realize that, whether you’re a first-time visitor to Israel or you’ve been here many times, this can all be a little confusing, which is why we’ve decided to put together some ‘Top Ten’ list covering what we think are some of the most important events in ancient Israel’s long, chequered and glorious history. We are not scholars, so we’ll try and keep it succinct, but - remember! - Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither was the Land of Israel. Here goes…Part One of our ‘Historical Events’ series, beginning with Judaism’s beloved Patriarch, Abraham.Cows in Shaar HaCarmel National Park, Israel. Photo credit: © Oksana Mats1. Abraham arrives in the Land of IsraelIt was Abraham, the father of monotheism (a belief in the One God) who was the first protagonist in the fateful story of the Jews. Commanded by God to leave his birthplace, he set off on a long and arduous journey to the land of Israel.Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (his son and grandson) would become the three Patriarchs of the Jewish religion and the Hebrew Bible is filled with extraordinary stories about their lives. These include God’s blessing of Abraham (to make him the father of a great nation), the binding of Isaac, and Jacob’s stealing of his brother Esau’s birthright.Jacob would go on to have 13 children, 10 of whom would be founders of tribes of Israel. In the latter part of his life, famine forced the Israelites to migrate to Egypt, where Jacob would finally be reunited with his beloved son Joseph (owner of the fabled coat of many colors).Cave of the Patriarchs (Sanctuary of Abraham), Hebron, West Bank. Photo byDan RosensteinonUnsplash2. The Ten Commandments are given to MosesIn terms of major historical events in Israel, this really has to be up there. It was at Mount Sinai where Moses, Judaism’s most important prophet, received the Torah (which in Jewish terms means the first five books of the Hebrew Bible), including the Ten Commandments. These are considered to be the blueprint for the ethics and worship in Jewish life up until today - they are the laws that Jews (and also Christians) strive to abide.Without a doubt, Moses was an extraordinary hero of the Jewish people, who led the Jews out of slavery in Egypt (famously parting the Red Sea with his staff) and led them, after many years of wandering, to the Promised Land. As he stood at Sinai, he entered into a covenantal relationship with God and, as a result, delivered God’s words to his people. Moses is considered to have been the only person who ever saw God ‘face to face’ (atop Sinai) and his actions are also indicative of a renewing of God’s covenantal relationship with Abraham, long before.Sunset on Mount Sinai. Photo byVlad KiselovonUnsplash3. The Eras of King David and King SolomonThis really was a golden era, by any standards. Named ‘the United Monarchy’ period, it refers to the United Israelite kingdom of Israel and Judah, during the reigns of Saul, David, and Solomon, whose story is told in the Hebrew Bible. Scholars estimate that it lasted between 1047 BCE and 930 BCE. Under King David’s rule, the Judean dynasty was founded and all the tribes of Israel were united. Born a shepherd boy, he famously slew the giant Goliath with nothing more than a slingshot, then served at King Saul’s court as an aide. After going into hiding and living as a fugitive and “Robin Hood’ figure, he was anointed King at the age of 30. Following this, he conquered the city of Jerusalem, established it as Israel’s capital, and made the Ark of the Covenant the focal point of the city. David was a talented musician, poet, and lyricist, many of the biblical Psalms are ascribed to him and in prophetic literature, he is the forefather to the Hebrew Messianic Age. In Jerusalem today, there are endless references to David - his tomb, King David’s Tower, and the underground City of David, which is 3,000 years old.King David’s Tomb, Jerusalem, Israel. Photo credit: © Oksana MatsEven the Bridge of Chords (a striking architectural masterpiece, located at the city’s entrance) has been deliberately shaped to resemble his harp (its cables representing strings). After his death at 70, his son Solomon replaced him as King. Known for his ruthlessness in dealing with political opponents, he appointed close friends in positions of government and reinforced his position as King through military means (infantry, cavalry, and chariotry). Solomon was also both a master builder and a sage (hence the phrase ‘ the Wisdom of Solomon’). He was responsible for the erection of the First Temple of Jerusalem, the national and spiritual center of the Jewish people, as well as an enormous building program throughout the entire nation. Deemed wiser than any other sage, the Hebrew Bible's Book of Proverbs tells the famous story of his adjudication between two women, each claiming to be the mother of a baby, and his profound conclusion. Moreover, the ‘Song of Solomons’ - also in the Hebrew Bible - is an extraordinarily beautiful love poem, attributed to him. Today, Solomon is revered both in Judaism and Christianity for his wisdom and is regarded by Muslims as a prophet.Solomons pillars, Timna Park, Israel.Photo byRaimond KlavinsonUnsplash4. HellenismIn 332, the land of Israel was conquered by Alexander the Great, a brilliant Greek leader and a great force in history. He ushered in an era of Hellenism (rule characterized by the culture of ancient Greece). However, the Jews fared better under him than they had done under the Romans and came to an ‘arrangement’ with them. The ‘pact’ they made was that in return for paying taxes and behaving in a loyal fashion towards him, they could remain autonomous.On the positive side, Jews survived (i.e. were not slaughtered en masse, as they had been in Roman times). The flip side of their acquiescence was that the door was opened to Greek culture and a certain level of assimilation. It also led to the creation of a tax system that was so corrupt, the Jews hated it long after Alexander had died.5. The Maccabees RevoltBetween 167-160 BCE, a revolt by the Maccabees took place against Hellenistic influences and the Seleucid Empire. King Antiochus IV introduced a number of repressive anti-Jewish measures, including making the Second Temple a site of a pagan cult. A group of Jewish fighters, led by Judas Maccabeus (Judah Maccabee) and they even had an early victory, capturing Jerusalem.Although Judah was killed in a subsequent battle, eventually the Greeks were expelled from Jerusalem and the Maccabees went on to establish the independent Hasmonean Kingdom, which ignited a sense of Jewish nationalism.Ben Shemen Forest near Modiin, where the Maccabees Revolt started. Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin6. Jewish independence under the Hasmonean monarchy.The subsequent period, which lasted until 63 BCE, saw the Jews living independently in the Hasmonean kingdom. It was an extremely unstable dynasty and the Hasmoneans were not conventionally Hellenistic, rather a ‘national monarchy’. Initially triumphant, Jewish life flourished but eventually, their reign became quite corrupt and within a few decades, Rome’s power began to be felt. Eventually, the Hasmonean dynasty fell, leading to the installation of Herod the Great as King, who made Judea into a Roman client state. 7. The Capture of Jerusalem by the RomansA dark period in Jewish history, in 63 BCE the Roman General Pompey captured the city of Jerusalem and installed a puppet king. Friction ensued and three years later culminated in the First Jewish Revolt. By the spring of 70 BCE, Jerusalem was besieged by General Titus. The Romans cut off supplies to the city by encircling the walls, quickly driving the Jews inside to starvation. By August of the same year, the Romans were inside the Old City, ransacking and burning as they went, and then massacring many of the remaining population. They subsequently destroyed the Second Temple (today, only a trace of it remains, in the form of the Western Wall). The Romans celebrated their victory by building the Triumphal Arch of Titus at the foot of the Palatine Hill, in Rome’s Forum.The Roman rule would continue for hundreds of years, with King Herod (who became one of the most powerful monarchs in the Roman Empire), who remodeled the Temple. After his death, ancient Israel would come directly under Roman administration, and great suppression of Jewish life, culminating in the defeat of ancient Israel's last Jewish outpost, Masada (see below).The Judean Desert view from the top of Masada Fortress, Israel. Photo byDaniel LeeonUnsplash8. Jesus of Nazareth’s Ministry in the GalileeJesus, regarded by Christians as the son of God, spent his formative years in Nazareth but the latter part of his life - between around 20-33 BC, traveling around the Galilee, ministering. After being baptized in the Jordan River, by John the Baptist, he recruited his twelve disciples and began preaching in synagogues, casting out demons and healing people.He is known for miracles such as calming seas and walking on water, feeding a crowd of 5,000 with two fishes and five loaves, turning water into wine at a wedding, and raising a man from the dead. Today, all around the Galilee are places of extraordinary importance for Christians (theGospel Trail), including the Mount of Beatitudes, near Capernaum and Tabgha.Here Jesus gave his famous ‘Sermon on the Mount’, the ‘Wedding Church’ at Kfar Cana and Yardenit baptismal site.Eventually, Jesus left Galilee for Jerusalem, where he was betrayed by his disciple Judas, and crucified by the Roman authorities, before rising from the dead, three days later.Capernaum, established during the time of the Hasmoneans, Israel.Photo credit: ©Dmitry Mishin9. The Jewish Revolt at MasadaThis ancient desert fortress, built by King Herod, located on a plateau in the Judean desert and close to the Dead Sea, was a place that would truly be remembered in history for years to come. Meaning ‘Support’ or ‘Strong Foundation’ in Hebrew, it was at Masada that the Jews there made a last heroic stand against the Romans.In 66 CE, the Jewish leader Eleazar Ben Yair fled Jerusalem (for Masada, to command a group of Judean rebels. Once the Romans had destroyed the Temple, they turned their sights to Masada, the last community (with just under 1000 rebels living there). Led by the military leader Flavius Silva, thousands of Romans built camps at the bottom of the fortress, as well as a siege wall and a ramp, by which they planned to storm through. The rebels held out for two years but in April 73 CE, it became apparent to them that they had lost. Rather than surrender and be captured as slaves, they followed the instructions of Bey Yair and committed suicide en masse. For several centuries, Masada remained uninhabited although, during the later Byzantine period, a group of monks built a monastery there. Two centuries later, when the Muslims conquered the region, the fortress would be abandoned once more. Today, Masada is one of Israel’s most famed attractions and is beloved both by tourists and Israelis.It is a popular site for touring, military commendation ceremonies, and bar mitzvahs (the ritual where a 13-year-old Jewish boy comes of age). Its opulent palaces, storerooms, Roman baths, and extensive water system make it a site of major archaeological importance in Israel and at an emotional level, Jews identify with it as a symbol of courage, resilience, and hope.Ruins of Masada Fortress, Israel. Photo credit: © Shutterstock10. Bar Kokhba’s uprising against RomeThis rebellion by Jews in Judea was led by Simon Bar Kokhba and was fought against the Romans sometime between 132-136 CE. It was the last of three major wars the Jews fought against the Romans. After Emperor Hadrian had spearheaded a series of measures to hellenize the region (including the outlawing of circumcision and the erection of a temple to Jupiter over the remains of the Jewish Temple) Bar Kokhba and his followers stormed the Roman colony of Aelia in Jerusalem. Eventually, the battle between the Jews and the Romans became so fierce that Hadrian himself visited from Rome and ordered 35,000 men to fight the rebels. Gradually, the Jews were worn down and in 135 CE Bar Kokhba, himself was killed, in Bethar, southwest of Jerusalem. The rebels were quickly crushed, Judea was abandoned and the Jews were barred from entering their holiest city.To be continued.A man riding a donkey on the road to Jerusalem. Photo byIva RajovićonUnsplash

For a small country, Israel has not just a thriving film industry but a nation of cinema aficionados. Indeed, even in the era of home streaming and Netflix, you’ll find movie theatres across the country packed out, both for blockbusters and small, independent films. Whether it’s a film by a local director or the latest James Bond, Israelis will be there…and this is reflected in famous Israeli movies competing internationally and winning many awards over the years.Cinematographer’s room.Photo byNoom PeerapongonUnsplashIn Israel today, the population is just under 9 million people but there are 10 film schools and seven international film festivals held each year! Even though cinema attendance has declined in the last 30 years (well, this is true of almost everywhere in the world today), film directors are still hard at work, producing works that showcase Israel across the world as a vibrant, modern nation, not without its dilemmas but constantly changing.The History of Cinema in IsraelBefore the state was established, there were many cinemas in Israel (see below), initially silent movies. Baruch Agadati established the AGA Newsreel and directed an early film called ‘This is the Land’ in 1935. Also, the children’s author Zvi Lieberman had two of his books turned into films and one of them - ‘Over the Ruins’ - is considered to be a ‘landmark’ in the history of cinema in Israel. After Israel came into being in 1948, different genres of film emerged. These included:1. Documentary / Propaganda films in Israeli cinemaThese were filmed for several purposes - not only were they informative (letting Jews around the world see how the new state of Israel was faring), but they also served as a means of persuasion i.e. encouraging Jews to emigrate, not to mention attracting donations. Two of the most important of these filmmakers were Ya’acov Ben-Dov and Lazar Dunner. The latter was responsible for the short color film entitled ‘A Day in Degania’, showcasing the first established kibbutz in the country, in the Galilee. In 1953, the Israeli Public Information Administration was established and subsequently produced many propaganda films - they dealt with current affairs, news to do with agriculture and health. These films gave foreigners a glimpse into Israeli Society and were a powerful tool of instruction.Сinema Sign. Photo by Samuel Regan-Asante on Unsplash2. ‘Bourekas’ films in Israeli cinemaThese ‘comic melodramas’ were popular in the 1960s and ’70s. Often real tearjerkers, they played on ethnic stereotypes of Ashkenazi (European) and Mizrahi (Sephardic-Arab world) Jews and stuck to a predictable format. In general, this would involve a canny, street-smart Mizrahi man trading insults with a conceited, cold, arrogant Ashkenazi man. Whilst highly popular, with their slapstick humor, they were also criticized for being ‘shallow’ and ‘low brow’. Today, they are no longer made but many have obtained cult status, including ‘Sallah Shabbati’ by Ephraim Kishon, ‘The Contract’ directed by Menachem Golan, and ‘Hagiga B’Snuker’ by Boaz Davidson.3. ‘New Sensitivity’ films in Israeli cinemaStyled after the new wave French movement, this genre of film was popular in Israel in the 1960s and 1970s. Promoting both artistic and aesthetic values, it was a somewhat modernist style. Films at this time included “The House on Chelouche Street” by Moses Mizrahi, “Hole in the Moon” by Uri Zohar, and “But Where Is Daniel Wax?” by Abraham Zeffer.A spectator in the cinema. Photo byKaren ZhaoonUnsplashMovie Theatres in Israel - Past to Present‘Kolnoa Eden’, Tel Aviv - The Eden cinema dates from the turn of the 20th century and was one of the earliest cinemas built in Tel Aviv. It was founded by Moshe Abarbanedl and Mordechai Wieser in 1914, even though residents of the neighborhood (Ahuzat Bayit) objected strongly.During the First World War, it was closed by the Ottoman government but reopened under the British Mandate and was a true center of social and cultural activity. It even served as a live venue in 1923, when it hosted ‘La Traviata’ performed by the Palestine Opera! It remained popular into the 1950s and 1960s but closed its doors in 1974. Mograbi Cinema, Tel Aviv - The Kolnoa Mograbi (Mograbi Cinema) was an art deco cinema that opened in 1930, in central Tel Aviv. For years it was, arguably, the city’s most famous cinema and during holidays people often gathered in front of it - indeed, after the 1948 partition and establishment of the State of Israel, it was one of the places where locals broke into spontaneous dancing and cheers of joy. It remained a city landmark for decades afterwards but, following a fire in 1986, it was demolished.Cafe Lorenz, Tel Aviv - In 1905, Cafe Lorenz opened to the public in Jaffa Road in the neighborhood of Neve Tzedek, with the Lorenzo family screening films there and 20 years later, the Kesem Cinema (‘Magic Cinema’) was housed there for a short period. Turned on projector.Photo byJeremy YaponUnsplashEsther Cinema, Tel Aviv - Built in 1930, it opened as the ‘Dizengoff Square’ cinema (because of its location but the following year was renamed ‘the Esther Cinema’. Built in the Bauhaus style of architecture (popular in Israel in the 1930s, because of the number of German Jewish architects who had arrived in the city), it was commissioned by Esther and Moses Nathaniel. Very modern for its day, it had seating for 1000 people, air conditioning and a cafe. Soon, it became a social and cultural hub, holding lectures and political meetings too. What makes this building special even today is that it was restored and renovated, made into a boutique hotel called ’Cinema’. Great care was taken to keep the exterior in keeping with the 1930s and inside you can see the original staircase, chandeliers, and a display of projectors and movie posters. It is fair to say that, today, this building is one of the most striking in Tel Aviv.Alhambra Cinema, Jaffa - Located on Jerusalem Boulevard in Jaffa, and designed in Art Deco style by Elias Al-Mor, this cinema opened in 1937 and was named after the Alhambra Palace in Granada, Spain. Owned by Palestinians, it was used as a cultural institution as well as a cinema, then as a theatre in the 1960s. After being abandoned for a long time, it was restored in 2010 and now is home to the Scientology Centre. People watching a movie in a movie theatre. Photo byKrists LuhaersonUnsplashCinema International, Jerusalem - This silent movie theatre opened in Jerusalem on Jaffa Road in 1912. Housed in Feingold House, it screened silent feature films but with no regular showings - it all depended on how many tickets were sold! Smadar, Cinema Jerusalem -Situated in Jerusalem, in the German Colony, this cinema opened for commercial screenings in 1935 and was soon known as the ‘Orient.’ Jewish management took it over (since originally it had been a German-owned business) and after 1948 it was purchased by four young soldiers, three of whom were later bought out by the fourth, a movie lover called Arye Chechik. It became a real family business - he sold tickets and worked the projector, whilst his wife sold sweets at a nearby stand!The Armon, Haifa -Moshe Greidinger opened this cinema in 1935 - a building that could seat 1,800 and in art-deco style. Soon it became the hub of Haifa’s entertainment scene, being used not just as a movie theatre but also as a music venue for the Israeli Opera and Israeli Philharmonic.Clapboard plays an important role in the video production process. Photo byJakob OwensonUnsplashMovie Theatres in Israel TodayToday, many of the small, independent cinemas in Israel have closed down, since they cannot compete financially with the big multiplexes, in the form of ‘Cinema City’ and ‘Yes Planet’. However, that does not mean that there is no demand for independent productions - on the contrary, Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Haifa are all popular, and not just on a day-to-day basis but for the film festivals they hold.Cinematheque Tel AvivOpened in the spring of 1973, and located within walking distance of the historic part of the city, Tel Aviv Cinematheque and movie archive boasts five screening halls. It shows all kinds of films, both Israeli and international, and hosts a number of festivals. In the fall of 2011, its ‘sister’ the Israeli Cinema Centre opened next door to it. This wing is much larger than the original and boasts three screens, a library, and a restaurant. Cinematheque JerusalemThe Jerusalem Cinematheque was opened in 1981, the brainchild of George Ostrovsky, Lia van Leer and the then-mayor of the city, Teddy Kollek. Situated at the Valley of Hinnom (on Hebron Road), it boasts spectacular views of the Old City. With four screening halls and a growing film archive, the Cinematheque is a real treasure for all movie fans. Screening a mixture of commercial, Israeli, and international films (as well as gems from its archives) it regards itself as a leading platform for the promotion of local cinema. Its Film Archive preserves and showcases films from the beginning of Israeli cinemauntil modern times and is an exciting venue both for established and up-and-coming film directors. People at the movie theatre. Photo byErik WitsoeonUnsplashCinematheque HaifaThe Haifa Cinematheque was also established by Lia Van Leer and her husband Wim, but long before its Jerusalem counterpart - actually in the early 1950s. Today it offers visitors the choice of 40 plus films each month, screened in two different theatres. These include old and new films, restored prints, and retrospectives.Recognized Israeli Film DirectorsThere have always been classic Israeli films that are loved by its people, but until the last 20 or so years, they didn’t really break onto the world scene. All that has changed now and more and more tales of life in Israel, focusing both on the secular and religious worlds, as well as politics, music, and love, are ending up on the big screen. Ari Folman was nominated for an Oscar in his groundbreaking ‘Waltz with Bashir’, following the story of an Israeli soldier who battles mental health issues after fighting in the first Lebanon war. Eytan Fox became famous after his film ‘Song of the Siren’ (in 1994) was released, taking a comic look at an Israeli woman’s convoluted love life in the midst of the Gulf War. In 2002, ‘Yossi and Jagger’ was released, a touching portrayal of two men in love, whilst in the midst of their army service. And in 2006, ‘The Bubble’ aired a very personal film for Fox who, openly gay, wanted to deal with the subject of coming out of the closet.‘Footnote’ by Joseph Cedar, was released in 2001, and later won the ‘Best Screenplay Award’ at Cannes. Exploring the troubled relationship between a father and son who both work at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, it is both touching and poignant. Black and silver cameras with film reels. Photo by昔日少年寻不见onUnsplashCinema Festivals in IsraelIsrael holds a number of film festivals each year, which are well-attended. And because of its fascinating history and people, there’s a story to be had on every street corner, which means there are plenty of Israeli directors at the screenings too. The oldest of these festivals is the one held in Haifa, which began in 1983 and is held every year around Sukkot time (between September and October). Not only are there all kinds of screenings, but each night there is a program of cultural events, which includes outdoor film screenings, live music, and an artists’ market close by.Hot on the heels of Haifa is the Jerusalem International Film Festival (JIFF) which was first held in 1984. Ever since, each July, it screens between 150 and 200 films, giving both locals and tourists the opportunity to see some of the finest films that have just been made. A cinema sign, crafted into the ironwork.Photo byNick FewingsonUnsplashNor is Tel Aviv shy in this department, especially when it comes to documentaries. Docaviv, (the Tel Aviv International Documentary Film Festival) was founded in 1998 is the largest festival in Israel, drawing audiences of up to 40,000. And there’s also TLVFest, which focuses on films related to the LGBTQ movement, supporting pluralism in one of the world’s most gay-friendly cities.Moreover, there is the Tel Aviv International Student Film Festival, which promotes young filmmakers, starting out in the industry. Each June it shows more than 200 short films from around the globe and its prizes are highly coveted. Held at the Cinematheque, events include masterclasses, exhibitions, conferences, and artist workshops. Running now since 1996, it has developed a real reputation for innovative cinema.If you are visiting Israel for one of these film festivals and would like to organize a day tour or private tour within the country, please feel free to contact us by phone or email. We are always happy to help!Cool looking movie theater popcorn bags. Photo by Corina Rainer on Unsplash

When you arrive in Israel, one of the first things that will strike you is the letters of the Hebrew alphabet! You’ll see them on storefronts, menus, banners at Ben Gurion airport, and all kinds of public transport. The letters in this alphabet (referred to by scholars as Jewish script or ‘Ktav Ashuri’) certainly can puzzle visitors (luckily for them, the Roman script is widespread too!)A historic Old Testament scroll rescued from the city of Lodz in Poland.Photo byMick HauptonUnsplashEarly Hebrew was the alphabet used by Jews before the 6th century (basically the Babylonian Exile) and existed in local variants. For sure, it developed over time but essentially it had - and still does - 22 letters, but only with consonants represented.The letters are written in block form. Just as interestingly for the visitor, it was - and is still - written from right to left. And it’s not the only language in Israel you’ll see written this way either - Arabic (although written in cursive, not block letters) and Yiddish are also written right to left.As we all know, language is an incredibly powerful tool in society - it helps people communicate with each other, build relationships, and also enables them to promote their culture. Language lets people share common ideas, express feelings and desires, and, in turn, forges all kinds of ties between people. And never more so than in Israel which was in the interesting position of only having revived Hebrew (in its modern form) in the last 150 years!Today, we’ll be looking at language in Israel - how linguistic scholars and Zionists alike promoted a Hebrew revival and how this Hebrew revival impacted Yiddish speakers (many of whom had come to Palestine/Israel from Eastern Europe and knew nothing of Hebrew, save for what they could read in the Bible). We’ll also take a look at how Yiddish is still used in small religious communities in Jerusalem and how it’s even making a bit of a comeback amongst the young and secular in wider Israel. Let’s go! Lamir Geyen! ! בוא נלךA wall at Netiv HaAsara facing the Gaza border reads the words “Path to Peace” in Hebrew, Arabic, and English. Photo byCole KeisteronUnsplashHebrew From Ancient Times until the 19th CenturyHistorically, ‘square’ (block) Hebrew was established in the land of Israel, some time between the ½ BCE and slowly developed into what is now the modern Hebrew alphabet, in the next thousand years. By 10 CE, classical Hebrew existed in three clear formats - formal (used in books), rabbinical (used by medieval Jewish scholars), and local scripts.So actually, Hebrew had roots that dated back a long time, which makes the story of it being brought back to life even more extraordinary. As mentioned earlier, 150 years ago Hebrew was not a spoken language - it was effectively dormant and used simply for prayer. Only because of Eliezer Ben Yehuda - an individual of exceptional vision - was it brought back from life. How did he do it?A Hebrew RevivalBen Yehuda was born in Lithuania and arrived in Israel (then Palestine) in 1881. Settling in Jerusalem, he heard many languages around him - Russian, Polish, Arabic, German - and soon he took the view that these new arrivals needed a common tongue to unite them. As a Jewish nationalist. Ben Yehuda believed both in the return of Jews to their historical homeland (the Land of Israel) and a ‘national tongue’. To make the latter challenge a reality, he decided to transform ancient Hebrew - used just for prayer for thousands of years - into a modern language.Ben Yehuda campaigned vociferously for Hebrew to be made the official language of instruction in schools and set to work expanding the existing Hebrew vocabulary. He created more than 300 new words (including ‘toy’, ‘car’, ‘ice cream’, and ‘newspaper’). He also dedicated himself to compiling the first modern Hebrew dictionary and later edited the first Hebrew-language daily newspaper. On a personal note, Ben Yehuda was a stickler for discipline and, in schools today, every Israeli child hears the story of how he only spoke Hebrew to his own children (even when they wept). In fact, his son Ben Tzion was the first child in modern times to grow up using this language as his mother tongue because of his father’s sheer determination.Mia's Mosaics "We Were All Once Refugees". A collaboration with Kuchinate, a Women's African Refugee Collective, Tel Aviv. Photo byAntoine MerouronUnsplashHebrew as the national language of IsraelThanks to Ben Yehuda’s sterling efforts, more and more communities of Jews who had arrived in the First Aliyah (1881-1903) and the Second Aliyah (1904-1914) established Hebrew schools in their surroundings. As a result, by 1922 there were enough Jewish pioneers speaking Hebrew in their daily lives that the British Mandate rulers recognized it as the official language of Jews in Palestine. Since then, modern Hebrew has developed a lexicon of more than 75,000 words including almost 2,500 deliberately designed Hebrew alternatives for foreign words. Whilst Ben Yehuda himself never lived to see the creation of the State of Israel, this idea of the Jews speaking their own language in their own land came to pass. Arguably, this made him one of the most successful language revivalists of all time as well as one of the most prominent historical figures in Israel! Today, modern Hebrew (or ‘Ivrit’ as it’s called) is the standard form of the Hebrew language spoken in Israel, and every new immigrant who arrives is offered, courtesy of the government, a free ‘ulpan’ which is a language instruction program, teaching them the basics.Road sign in Haifa in Hebrew, Arabic, and English.Photo byLevi Meir ClancyonUnsplashSo whatis the Yiddish language?Today, in every school, restaurant, and business place in Israel you’ll hear Hebrew spoken. But as well as the fact that it was only adopted ‘officially’ 100 years ago, there’s another reason Hebrew wasn’t widely spoken back then - it’s because Yiddish was incredibly common. Yiddish was the language of Ashkenazi Jews - Jews who hailed from Central and Eastern Europe.Written in the same alphabet as Hebrew, by the 19th century Yiddish was spoken widely in any community in the world where a Jewish population existed. The history of Yiddish is indeed a fascinating one. Scholars have traced its origins back to the 14th century when Ashkenazi Jews emerged as a community in Europe. From its birthplace, in German-speaking areas, it eventually spread to all of Eastern Europe. A fusion of High German (‘Hoch Deutsch’) vernacular and Slavic words (especially Polish and Ukrainian) it even has a historical trace of Romance language expressions in it. Yiddish is an incredibly rich language, as a result, even having what is called ‘artificial loanwords’. This actually means that the word borrowed from elsewhere and used in Yiddish doesn’t even exist in the original language. A good example is ‘tate-mame’ which means ‘parents’ in Yiddish. (And not to forget aboutYiddishe mama). In Slavic, these two words mean ‘dad’ and ‘mum’, but there’s actually no such phrase in Polish (or, indeed, any other Slavic language).As a result, many of the Jews who arrived in the Holy Land (then Palestine) spoke Yiddish as their mother tongue. They came from all walks of society - writers, politicians, business leaders, artists, social activists - and they were devoted to their language. This, of course, would become problematic for them as time passed, since they were also Zionists, therefore felt obliged to promote the Hebrew language in its new, modern format.Orthodox Jews in Jerusalem.Photo byArno SmitonUnsplashHebrew vs YiddishBetween the first aliyah and the creation of the State of Israel, therefore, Yiddish was spoken widely, although as time passed, modern Hebrew became predominant. However, Yiddish culture was alive and kicking in all kinds of forms - on the stage, in music venues, and in European-style cafes on Tel Aviv’s trendy Dizengoff street.So what changed this? Essentially, a huge cultural and ideological shift in Israel in the 1940s and 1950s. after the unspeakable horrors of the Holocaust. After millions of Jews had been murdered in the camps, the remaining survivors began looking for new homes. Some went to North America, others to Europe, and some even to Australia but many, of course, set sail for Israel.The then-Prime Minister, David Ben Gurion, had made a decision not to turn away a single refugee, in his quest to bring Jews from across the globe to this new homeland. But not, as Ben Yehuda had also said, to be a collection of different peoples - to forge a new country and a new national identity. This didn’t just mean having Hebrew as the official language of the state, it meant actively encouraging Yiddish speakers to abandon their ‘mamaloshen’ (mother tongue).Ben Gurion’s vision (and that of many of his contemporaries) was to create a new identity for the Jews - strong, proud, and ideologically committed. He encouraged immigrants from Eastern Europe to forget the ‘shtetls’ (villages) where they had been raised, and ‘shake off’ everything to do with their old lives. Candles from Safed with inscriptions in Hebrew, Israel. Photo byJoshua SukoffonUnsplashIt was their obligation - he argued - as citizens of this young nation - to be pioneers and part of that duty was to abandon the culture of the diaspora. And thus the ‘Sabra’ was born - the ‘new’ Israeli who was resilient, the Jew who would fight back against tyranny (the implication being that many Jews in Eastern Europe had gone to their deaths ‘like lambs to the slaughter’).As a result, Yiddish didn’t have an easy time in the 1950s, in the state of Israel. Many of the state’s population spoke it as their mother tongue but were embarrassed and ashamed to speak it publicly. Even worse, legislation was passed, protecting Hebrew from ‘competitor’ languages, particularly Yiddish, forbidding theatre productions to be performed and newspapers written in other languages. Additionally, diplomats and anyone else who represented Israel abroad actually had to Hebraize their names.Many children of Holocaust survivors also recount their ‘shame’ at having parents who spoke Yiddish together, instead of Hebrew. The awful truth was that, in the 1950s, the enormity of the Holocaust was not really understood, and - as a result - many of the refugees were ‘blamed’ for not fighting back against the Nazis. A lack of consciousness about this dark period meant that children born in Israel often ‘rejected’ their parents (and as some admit, did not want to have anything to do with their ‘old world’ language and customs). As a result of this dilemma, and the growth of modern Hebrew, today in Israel only about 3% of the population speak Yiddish on a day-to-day basis. So who are they?View of the Jewish Cemetery on the Mount of Olives. Photo byRiaonUnsplashYiddish in the Haredi Ashkenazi World in IsraelWithin Jerusalem is a special neighborhood, named ‘Mea Shearim’ which in Hebrew means ‘one hundred gates’ or ‘a hundredfold’. One of the oldest of the city’s neighborhoods, the people who live there are of Haredi background - that is Ultra-Orthodox Jews. Their day-to-day language of communication is Yiddish. The residents only use Hebrew for religious studies and prayer at synagogue, since they believe Hebrew is a sacred language that should only be used for communicating with God.For any visitor to this quarter of Jerusalem, it may almost seem as if they have stepped back in time, into a world of yesteryear. Men wear black frock coats and large black hats. Women are always dressed modestly - no skirts above the knee or plunging necklines and blouses that cover the elbows. They also cover their hair, either with headscarves or wigs.For anyone visiting this neighborhood, they will hear Yiddish on every street corner. They will also see it written in the form of ‘Pashkvils’ which are street posters, used both for political manifests and obituaries. Whilst Mea Shearim is open to all, there are large signs at its entrance (both in Hebrew and English) reminding people to behave respectfully by dressing modestly and, on Shabbat, not using their cellphones or taking photographs.The Wailing Wall in Jerusalem's Old City, Israel.Photo byIvan LouisonUnsplashPreserving Yiddish Culture in Israel TodayBut what of Yiddish in the rest of Israel? Well, there is, thank goodness, a more ‘happy’ side to this story - after years of it being sidelined (and ‘downgraded’) in Israeli society, there has been a resurgence in interest in the Yiddish language and culture. Today, you can attend lectures in cities across the country, given about famous writers (such as Isaac Bashevis Singer, who wrote ‘The Magician of Lublin’ and Shalom Aleichem, who penned ‘Tevye the Dairyman’).There is a Yiddish theatre in Tel Aviv called ‘Yiddishspiel’ which was inaugurated in 1987, as a result of the campaigning of the then Mayor, Shlomo Lahat. Its mission is to restore this wonderful language (which had almost disappeared from Israel) to the public - who can learn about its charm and glory, and the extraordinarily rich culture that lay behind it. Today, it is flourishing and puts on several productions a year, which are viewed by Israelis and tourists of all ages.Furthermore, many Israelis (especially children and grandchildren of Holocaust survivors) have now signed up for Yiddish classes. Tel Aviv University has begun hosting Yiddish summer camps and the Hebrew University now offers classes for credit. Every year, in Israel, the National Authority for Yiddish Culture now gives out prizes to prominent figures in the fields of arts and literature who contribute significantly to the Yiddish language and culture in Israel.So, what are you waiting for? Visit Israel and learn more about these two interesting languages for yourself!People in Tel Aviv cafe, Israel. Photo byYaroslav LutskyonUnsplash

Abu Gosh is an Arab-Israeli town located about 10 km west of Jerusalem in the Judean Hills. It is named after one of the most prominent clans inhabiting the town. Abu Gosh is known for its picturesque scenery, authentic local cuisine, ancient churches, and welcoming community. It is also home to the second-largest mosque in Israel. Flowers in Benedectine Abbey in Abu Gosh, Israel. Photo by Pauline on UnsplashAbu Gosh hosts a biannual music festival held during the Jewish holidays of Shavuot (Pentecost) and Sukkot (Festival of the Tabernacles). Most of Abu Gosh’s 7,000 residents are Muslims but there are also several Christian and Jewish families. History of Abu GoshThe majority of Abu Gosh residents come from four clans that can trace their roots back to the Chechen and Ingush tribes of the Caucasus Mountains. The ancestors of Abu Gosh residents were enlisted by the Ottoman army to join the fight for the Holy Land in the 1500s. They were known for their price, wealth, courage, and strength. Once the Ottomans had conquered Palestine, many of the Chechen and Ingush soldiers remained. They settled in the Abu Gosh area, and for hundreds of years, they controlled the pilgrimage route between Jaffa and Jerusalem. Sultan Selim gave them permission to charge travelers a tax or fee for safe passage along this route.Hummus made Abu Gosh famous.Photo byLudovic AviceonUnsplashHighlights of Abu GoshThe New Mosque - Construction of the New Mosque in Abu Gosh was funded by President Akhmad Kadyrov of Chechnya, in honor of the Chechen people of Abu Gosh. It was completed in 2014 and is the second-largest mosque in Israel after the Al-Aqsa Mosque on Temple Mount. The magnificent mosque has four tall minarets, a golden dome, and combines Middle Eastern and Caucasus architectural styles.Benedictine Monastery of St. Mary and the Church of the Resurrection - This monastery complex was built by Crusaders in 1141 and has beautiful gardens, a church, and a guesthouse. The monastery’s Church of the Resurrection has walls adorned with outstanding medieval frescoes. In the church crypt is the spring that attracted settlers to Abu Gosh thousands of years ago. The monastery is still active, and visitors can listen to Gregorian prayer chants sung throughout the day. Visitors can buy ceramics and candles made by monks and nuns. Abu Gosh is believed to be the site of Emmaus, a place mentioned in Luke 24. Two disciples were traveling the road from Jerusalem to Emmaus when they met and ate with a stranger who was the resurrected Christ.Our Lady of the Ark of the Covenant Church - The second church in Abu Gosh is known for a statue depicting Mary carrying baby Jesus. The statue can be seen from almost anywhere in Abu Gosh. Below the sculpture of Mary is a base resembling the Ark of the Covenant. Abu Gosh is identified with the biblical site of Kiryat Ye’arim. The Book of Exodus tells how the Ark of the Covenant (an ornate golden chest containing the original stone tablets of the 10 commandments) was kept at Kiryat Ye’arim before being taken to Jerusalem by King David. Our Lady of the Ark of the Covenant was built in 1924 on the ruins of a Byzantine church. Part of the original Byzantine mosaic floor can still be seen.Local Cuisine in Abu GoshNo one comes to Abu Gosh without trying some of the excellent local cuisine. The main road is lined with restaurants serving authentic Middle Eastern dishes. Abu Gosh hummus is particularly famous.Abu Gosh is a model of coexistence. Its multicultural community welcomes international visitors and Israelis who particularly like to come here to enjoy the food. Abu Gosh is a unique destination with much to discover and the residents welcome everyone with open arms.If you are interested in visiting Abu Gosh, join one of our private tours.

It’s been a mad few days in Israel (and much of the world!), as news of the Omicron variant has emerged. After almost two years of being closed to tourists, Israel opened its borders for those who were excited to visit, on November 1st. Now, less than a month later, the borders are closed again - and no one is quite sure for how long.Celebrating Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights.Photo byDad GrassonUnsplashBut just as we can’t see any more light at the end of the tunnel, one of Israel's favorite holidays (especially for kids) has arrived and we’re now almost halfway through. Yes, Hanukkah is upon us and this ‘Festival of Lights’ isn’t just a chance to enjoy the blaze of candles and chow on some delicious fried foods but also to celebrate a miracle that occurred, a long time ago, in a Temple in the Holy Land.Today, we’re giving you the run-down on this much-loved Jewish festival, which isn’t by any stretch of the imagination Christmas but has plenty to offer both young and old, all over Israel. What is this holiday? Why do Jews light candles and spin a strange-looking toy called a ‘dreidel?’ And why - everywhere you look - are bakeries from Tel Aviv and Jerusalem to the Galilee and Eilat suddenly filled with delectable sweet treats in the shape of donuts? Here we go - and, as we say in Hebrew - Chag Sameach! (That’s ‘Happy Holidays’ if you don’t know!)Hanukkah donuts in Israel. Photo byElisheva GoharonUnsplashWhat exactly is Hanukkah? When is Hanukkah celebrated in Israel?Hanukkah is an eight-day festival in the Jewish calendar that falls in the winter (any time between late November, and late December. It falls on the 25th day of the month of Kislev and because the Hebrew calendar (unlike the Gregorian one) is based both on the sun and the moon, the exact date will change every year. The most common way to observe it is by lighting candles on a candelabrum which in Hebrew is called a Hannukiah (or menorah). This lamp has nine branches. Eight of them represent the eight days of the festival and the ninth is used to light the other candles - this one is called the ‘Shamash’ (which in Hebrew means ‘attendant’ or ‘helper’). Each night, one more candle is lit until, on the last night of the holiday, the entire menorah is ablaze with candles. Hanukkah menorah. Photo byRobert ThiemannonUnsplashWhat does Hanukkah mean and what’s the history behind Hanukkah?In Hebrew, the word ‘Hanukkah’ means ‘dedication’ and this festival commemorates an important historical event for Jews, which took place in the 2nd century before Christ was born. At this time, the Greek Empire ruled over what is now Israel and in 168 BCE, King Antiochus forbade Jews to practice their own religious traditions. Even worse, in keeping with their Hellenistic customs, the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem was defiled, with an altar to the God Zeus put up, at which pigs were slaughtered. (Judaism forbids the worship of idols, and the eating of pork is also strictly forbidden according). The Maccabees, a small army of Jews, refused to bow down and, after a struggle, won back control of the Temple, took down the altar to Zeus and built a new one at which they could offer sacrifices in accordance with Jewish law. In the process, according to the rabbis of the Talmud (a book of Jewish teachings compiled between the 3rd to 6th centuries), a great miracle occurred. The sages recount that, at that time, there was only enough oil in the Maccabees lamps to keep the Temple’s menorah burning for one day. But, amazingly, the flame did not burn out - it blazed for a full eight days, by which time a new supply of oil had been found.This story really sets the tone for the entire holiday. Sevivon or dreidel with candles for Hanukkah celebration.Photo byTetiana SHYSHKINAonUnsplashChristmas vs Hanukkah in IsraelSo, is Hanukkah a big deal in Israel? What’s also interesting, however, is how many people have begun equating Hannukah with Christmas, even though - in fact - Hanukkah is a minor Jewish festival, compared to, say, Passover (celebrating the exodus of the Jews from slavery in Egypt) or Yom Kippur (the holiest day in the Jewish year, when people fast for 25 hours and pray to be forgiven for their sins).This is not to say that Hanukkah isn’t fun - it is! And especially as the State of Israel has grown older, more and more Hanukkah events have sprung up across the country, since this is a week at which children are not at school (meaning many Israeli parents are looking for activities to keep their broods occupied!) If you want an idea of some of the places you can visit, all across Israel, during this week, keep reading to the bottom of this page!Christmas tree and Star of David. Photo byMarkus SpiskeonUnsplashWhat are the Hanukkah customs and traditions?There are many incredibly fun and charming ways to celebrate this festival, and you don’t have to be young to do so!1. Lighting Hanukkah candles - in Israel, it’s traditional for family, friends, and even work colleagues, to gather together each night of the holiday and light candles as dusk turns to dark (Hebrew festivals always begin at sundown). In some homes, every child has their own ‘hanukkiah’ which they themselves light (with a little parental supervision). If you go into any supermarket, you’ll also see boxes of brightly colored Hanukkah candles, made especially for this time of the year.In Israel (as well as in major cities across the world now, such as London, New York, and Moscow) there are also public lightings of huge Menorahs. This year, in Tel Aviv, you can go to Rabin Square or Habima Square to see it, and in Jerusalem head to the Kotel - the Western Wall - where it will be lit each evening at 16.30 by different rabbis and known figures in Israel. Glass hanukkiah. Photo byGravonUnsplash2. Eating sufganiyot (fried Hanukkah donuts) - this is a great time-honored tradition in Israel. There is some argument as to where in Central Europe the donut became fashionable but, for sure, Polish Jewish immigrants who arrived in Palestine in the 1930s brought their ‘ponchiks’ with them.The ‘sufganiyah’ is still incredibly popular today, all over the country, both with kids and adults. In years gone by, they were quite simple creations - donuts (fried in oil) with jam in the center and a sprinkling of white powdered sugar atop. But as more and more fancy bakeries have sprung up in Israel, so have the variations on a theme.Today, if you walk the streets of Tel Aviv for instance, you’ll be confronted by all manner of delicious creations. So if you have a sweet tooth, you’re in for a fabulous eight days since the flavors are endless - caramel, pistachio, chocolate with Oreos, raspberry, lemon, and praline, to name a few. At the Roladin bakery (which has branches across the country) you’ll even see people standing in line, waiting to pick up boxes of extraordinary creations. OK, ok, they’re not the healthiest treat and guaranteed to go straight to your hips, but there’s no shame in indulging in one or two (or if you’ve no willpower, one each evening…)Hanukkah decorated donuts, Tel Aviv.Photo credit: © Sarah Mann3. Cooking up a batch of latkes - these delectable potato bites are eaten - just like donuts - to symbolize the miracle of the oil that survived all of eight days in the Temple. The word itself derives from the Yiddish language and means ‘ little pancake’. Traditionally they are made from potato and onion and served piping hot either with sour cream or applesauce. In recent years, however, Israelis are experimenting with beetroot, plantain, carrot, and even broccoli! 4. Giving your kids some ‘Hanukkah gelt’ - both in Hebrew and in Yiddish, ‘gelt’ means ‘money’ and these chocolate coins are a favorite treat for kids of all ages. It’s actually a long-standing tradition, which began in the 17th century when Polish Jews gave money to their children to distribute, in turn, to their teachers. 5. Spinning the dreidel - the dreidel is a spinning top with four sides, each one with a Hebrew letter - nun, gimel, heh, and shin respectively. These stand for ‘Nes gadol haya sham’ which means ‘ A great miracle happened there.’ When children spin it, whilst playing the game, the letter on which it stops decides how many points they will receive. Dreidel, in Hebrew, is ‘Sevivon’ and children also sing songs about this as they play.The Hebrew letter Shin on the dreidel. Photo byRobert ZunikoffonUnsplashWhat’s going on across Israel at Hanukkah time?From the big cities to smaller towns, there’s plenty going on this week. Here are some of the highlights we’d recommend (though,m of course, because of Corona, please check in advance to make sure the activity scheduled is actually going ahead). Hanukkah 2021 in Tel AvivChildren’s Film Festival at the Cinematheque - this 5-day extravaganza has something for everyone in the family. The famous independent cinema has sourced movies from across the globe, with children in mind. The holiday atmosphere in Tel Aviv Cinematheque is also enhanced with donuts, lights, and creative workshops for young adults in mind (especially those with an interest in filmmaking).‘Vintage Me Up’ - if you’re a fashion lover, this is the event for you. Held at ‘The Little Prince’ on Nahalat Binyamin street near the famous Carmel Market, you can explore 14 different vintage stores from across the country, all in one spot. There are also snacks and drinks on offer, as well as some good Israeli music (nostalgic and contemporary). Sketchfest - this festival of sketch comedy is all about celebrating and writing this interesting art. Writers will get together, discuss their ideas, draft stories and then have the opportunity to perform them on 4th December at two live performances. Shapira Light Fest - held in this hipster Tel Aviv neighborhood, this local produce festival features homemade food, local art, and second-hand clothing for sale. As you eat and shop, local musicians will toot their stuff in the background - vocals, wind, bass, you name it. Kids will enjoy the painting workshops and if you’re a night owl then hang around for the DJ party. Tel Aviv at night. Photo byKai PilgeronUnsplashHanukkah 2021in JerusalemAt the Kotel - as we mentioned above, a Menorah is lit every night at 4.30 pm at the Western Wall, in the Old City, and it’s a spectacular sight. Whether it’s your first time in Israel or you’re a returning visitor, there’s nothing quite like standing in front of the last remaining wall of the Second Temple, with hundreds of locals both praying and celebrating. The Israel Museum - the world-famous Israel Museum in Jerusalem is always worth a visit but never more so at this time of the year when it hosts all kinds of activities that are perfect for the whole family. These include storytelling, art workshops, and guided tours.Tower of David - meet historical figures, solve ancient mysteries, take a fun tour game and climb up to an observation point that gives you a fabulous view of all of Jerusalem. Yes, the Tower of David is a wonderful place to visit, whatever your age, at Hanukkah!Strolling in the Old City - the Old City of Jerusalem is a truly magical place and something lovely to do at Hanukkah is a stroll in the narrow streets of the Jewish Quarter and admire all the individual menorahs lit up in the windows of local homes. To see the Hanukkah celebration in Jerusalem, join one of ourJerusalem tours!Wailing Wall at night, Jerusalem. Photo bySander CrombachonUnsplashHanukkah Celebration 2021 Across IsraelHaifa, Israel’s third-biggest city and the center of northern Israel, is a very ‘mixed’ place, with Jews, Muslims, and Christians living next door to each other. This festival takes place each December to officially mark Christmas, Hanukkah, and Ramadan. Taking place in Wadi NisNas and the German Colony, kids can enjoy music, food stands, street celebrations, and even a circus! Visit Safed - this charming mystical city in Upper Galilee is the perfect place to take a Hanukkah break. This year, Safed is offering dozens of activities, including puzzle rooms, a glassblowing workshop, tours of the Old City, and even the chance for kids to look at old Israeli stamps.Spend a day at Chevel Modiin - light candles as the ancient Jews did, at Chevel Modiin, which is the place the Maccabees once lived and worked. Kids can make wooden dolls and candles, enjoy a petting zoo, harvest olives, and stamp coins in a restored Hasmonean village. Whatever you do this Hanukkah, however, here at Bein Harim we wish you all a very happy holiday. In these difficult times, let us all hope and pray that the light shines through!Hanukkah candles. Photo byRobert ZunikoffonUnsplash

Today we’re taking a closer look at Ashdod, Israel’s sixth-largest city, which sits on the Mediterranean and - whilst not one of the country’s obvious tourist attractions - has plenty to offer the visitor. Ashdod is the largest port in the county - indeed, it accounts for 60% of the country’s imports.Winter day in Ashdod, Israel.Photo byMax SimonovonUnsplashWhere is Ashdod?Ashdod is located on the Mediterranean coast, in the southern district of the country, just 32 kilometers south of Tel Aviv and 20 km north of Ashkelon. With a population of around 221,000, whilst it does not have any world-class museums or galleries, it can offer the visitor a large marina with restaurants and cafes, green open spaces in which to walk, museums and archaeological attractions, and - perhaps best of all - long stretches of pristine Israeli beaches.Ashdod in the BibleAshdod is a biblical name meaning ‘inclination',’ diffusion’ or ‘theft’. It is mentioned thirteen different times in the Hebrew Bible, which tells of it being a member of the Philistine pentapolis (the ‘five cities’). According to the Book of Joshua, in the Hebrew Bible, it was also part of the tribe of Judah. In the first Book of Samuel, Ashdod is once again mentioned as being among the principal Philistine cities. Indeed, after they captured the Ark of the covenant from the Israelites, the Philistines took it to Ashdod and set it down in the temple of Dagon. (The God ‘Dagon’ was the legendary inventor of the plow).Geography and Climate of AshdodAshdod lies on Israel’s coastal plain, next to the sea, and is a very flat city. It has a typical Mediterranean climate - because it is on the coast, its summers are long, hot, and very sticky. In contrast, winters are cool (with not too much rain) and many clear days. Temperatures in the summer can soar to well over 35 degrees and in the winter (January being the coldest month) fall to 12 degrees at night.Ashdod bedroom suburb. Photo byOleksandr KovalonUnsplashAshdod in Ancient TimesThe first documented urban settlement at Ashdod dates back to the Canaanite culture of the 17th century BCE. In 8 CE, the city fell to King Uzziah but was then captured by Assyria. In Hellenistic times, the city was known as Azotus, in Byzantine times it was under the control of Bishops. The ancient Ashdod, underneath the mound (‘tel’) had outports as Ashdod Yam and a Crusader castle. By the 1960s and 1970s, archaeologists from Israel and the USA had excavated remains in Ashdod dating back to the Canaanite period, as mentioned above.Ashdod TodayModern Ashdod was founded in 1956, along the Lakhish stream estuary, It was always intended to be a port city, because of its position on the Mediterranean and the fact that it rests on flat land, at a strategic economic crossroads. Today, it exports the majority of Israel’s citrus fruits as well as diamonds (and other precious stones), chemical products, and computer equipment. Ashdod is also a port at which many cruise ships from around Europe dock. Because it is so close to both Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, booking acruise excursion is an excellent way to spend a day in Israel. Whether you want to head to Israel’s capital, wander in the Old City, explore historical sites and places of worship, or travel to Tel Aviv and enjoy some Bauhaus architecture, boutique shopping, or a trip to Jaffa’s famous port and flea market, a private ship-to-shore tour from Ashdod port is a perfect way to manage it.The Ashdod Festival of the Nations and Their Tastes, Israel. Photo credit: © Oksana MatsAttractions in AshdodAshdod is not a particularly large city and it’s easy to walk around, hail a cab, or use the public transport system. Here are a few of the attractions we’d recommend you seek out if you’re in the city:1. The Marina - the Ashdod Marina is close to the city center and close to the ‘beach zone’ of the city. Known as the ‘Blue Marina’ its mooring basin is in the shape of a circle, with the dock stretching out like an arm. The dock itself looks like a menorah (a Jewish seven-branched candelabra) with three ‘finger docks’ to each side. It has berths that can accommodate up to 550 yachts and small boats and is a popular place to stroll. There are many restaurants and cafes in the neighborhood and the area is regenerating constantly. It is an excellent place to have a fish lunch or dinner, and if you are keen on water sports, in Ashdod there are schools for diving, surfing, and sailing dotted around the area.2. Ashdod Yam Park - this 50-acre flagship project is a beautiful place to walk and makes for some very family-friendly outdoor fun. They have a carp pond and an excellent playground, and there’s even a huge skate park, for those who love their boards! This is a lovely park to walk in on summer evenings, especially as the sun goes down.3. Ashdod Museum of Art - located close to the city center, this museum has been open for 15 years now and places its focus on issues that relate to the nature and identity of Ashdod. Many of the exhibitions put on in the last few years have looked in-depth at contemporary Israeli culture and feature artworks both by modern and veteran artists, both Israeli and from across the globe. A ship dragged anchor at Ashdod, Israel. Photo by Felix Tchverkin on Unsplash 4. Lachish River Park - this 650-acre park t stretches along the southern bank of Nahal Lachish River, which is the green lung of Ashdod. You can stroll along the river that divides the city and beaches from the port - lookout for kingfishers! Inside the mini zoo, halfway up on the right, you can see ostriches, goats, zebras, and turtles. In the summer, children will love the trampolines, bumper cars, and inflatable cars, as well as a play area and pool. 5. Museum of Philistine Culture - the Corinne Mamane Museum of Philistine Culture is the only archeology museum in Israel (and, indeed, the world) dedicated solely to the Philistine culture, ancient culture in the Canaanite cities, Ashdod being one of them. It’s fairly small, and can be explored in about 2 hours - there are interactive stations to encourage children to get excited and one actually includes getting dressed up in ancient costumes! Others have videos and one has an interactive display of Samson pulling down some pillars! Admission is 30 NIS.6. The Eye of the Sun - this modern sculpture sits in a large circle at the end of Ashdod’s promenade. Designed by Motti Mizrachi, it changes color at night. 7. Bet Guvrin-Maresha National Park - not far from Ashdod, this is a huge archaeological complex that contains the remains of two ancient cities. It contains the Maresha caves that date back 2,000 years, to the time of Bar Kochba, as well as a reconstructed ancient wine and olive press and the northern complex. The northern complex boasts significant remains from the Roman period (both a bathhouse and impressive amphitheater), as well as the remains of a Crusader fortress with a church, dining room, workshops, and underground vaults. The caves are fascinating and there are many of them but are probably not suitable for children under the age of 5.Beit Guvrin Archaeological Park. Photo credit: © Manu Grinspan. Published with permission of the Israel Nature and Parks AuthorityMusic, Art, and Culture in AshdodIf you’re in Ashdod, try and grab a ticket for a performance by the Israeli Andalusian Orchestra in Ashdod - founded in 1994, this orchestra endeavors to act as a cultural bridge between Israel and the Arab world. It performs pieces that were created during the Golden Age of Jewish Culture in Spain.Ashdod also has its own Symphony Orchestra and holds dance festivals from time to time. Ashdod’s Méditerranée Festival, held annually, showcases the best artists from Israel and well-known guests from the Mediterranean countries. During the festival days various shows are held, film screenings, and culinary events from the best Mediterranean cuisine. The festival’s events are held at various sites across the city.Getting to Ashdod from Tel AvivAshdod is well connected with Tel Aviv, the bustling economic center of Israel, with its hipster bars, innovative food scene, antique markets, and non-stop nightlife. There are a few ways you can travel between the two cities, including:1. Two buses that will take you from Ashdod to Tel Aviv. The first is bus number 320, which leaves Ashdod Central Bus Station every 20-30 minutes and takes approximately 50 minutes, dropping you at the Tel Aviv Central Bus Station (Levinsky) in the south of the city. The second bus is number 626, which leaves from Ashdod al Halom and takes approximately one hour, dropping you at the Savidor bus station (on Arlozorov Street), in the north of the city. You can buy a ticket online beforehand online, use a green Rav Kav card (with preloaded credit) or simply pay the bus driver with cash when you board. A one-way ticket would cost around 14 NIS.Israeli train.Photo byJohn AdeoyeonUnsplash2. Train - these run hourly from Ashdod to Tel Aviv and the fastest will take 45 minutes. You leave from Ashdod al Halom and alight at one of Tel Aviv’s three railway stations - HaHaganah, HaShalom, or Savidor. A one-way ticket should cost around 18 NIS.3. You can hire a car.Car rental in Israel is relatively simple and all you need is your international driving license and a credit card - there are many companies that can help you including Eldan, Shlomo Sixt, and Budget.The cost is relatively cheap (compared to other countries in Europe or the US), all of the representatives speak good English and if you shop around online, a day or two before, you may be able to pick up a real bargain. 4. Taxi - take a taxi or even book a private transfer if you wish to make the trip by road. Taxis in Israel can be pre-booked with a hotel concierge or with the Gett app. It is better to agree on a price beforehand for this kind of trip, so there are no nasty surprises involved at the end of the ride. For private transfers, please contact us at Bein Harim - we will be delighted to arrange this service for you.Jaffa port, Israel. Photo byFaruk KaymakonUnsplashGetting from Ashdod to JerusalemJerusalem is also within easy reach of Ashdod. Bus number 448 leaves Ashdod Central Station regularly (every 30 minutes or so) and the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. You will arrive at the Jerusalem Central Bus Station, which sits directly on Jaffa Road, and from there you can easily continue onto all of the major attractions, including the Old City, using the Jerusalem light railway. A one-way ticket from Ashdod to Jerusalem should cost around 20 NIS and - again - you can use a Rav Kav card or simply pay the driver in cash when you board.It is possible to travel between Ashdod and Jerusalem by train, but not directly. You will have to change in Tel Aviv, at HaHaganah station, and then continue on and the journey time will be around 1 hour 40 minutes. Both stations are modern and have English signs (and electronic self-service machines, with a variety of instructional languages) and elevators, should you have heavy luggage! A one-way ticket from Ashdod to Jerusalem should cost around 25 NIS.Driving between the two cities, either using a hire car, a taxi, or a private transfer, should take you around just over one hour, using Route 1, providing there is no traffic.The Wailing Wall, Jerusalem. Photo byThomas VogelonUnsplash

One of the many incredible things about Israel is its diversity - and not just in landscapes! A first-time visitor to the Holy Land will, most likely, be amazed at how many different kinds of people they see and talk to, whether it’s on the streets of large cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, in tiny villages in the Galilee or in the desert areas of the south.Riding Through The Desert, Israel.Photo byRobert ByeonUnsplashBedouin in Israel: FactsAnd if you ask someone “What kind of people make up Israel’s population?” it’s quite likely that they will respond with a number of answers. Most people know that Israel is a country formed in 1948, to represent Jews, and they also know that the land is home to a fair number of Arabs (both Muslim and Christian). But what about other, smaller, minority groups such as the Druze, the Bedouin and the Bahai?Today we’re going to be taking a look at the Bedouin - a nomadic tribe of people who have lived in Israel’s Negev desert for hundreds of years - and explore their history, their culture and lifestyle and how they feel about their lives in Israel today. Who are the Negev Bedouin?The Bedouins in Israel are a small community of nomads, who live in Israel’s Negev Desert, and are part of Israel’s Arab Palestinian minority. The number of Bedouin in Israel today is estimated to be around 200,000-250,000, which accounts for approximately 3% of Israel’s total population. However, in the Negev desert (which is sparsely populated) they actually account for one in four residents. The Bedouin tribes in Israel can be divided into three different groups, depending on their origins. The first are descendants of ancient Arabian nomads, the second hail from certain Bedouin tribes in the Sinai and the third are Palestinians who came from more cultivated areas.Rahat, the cultural capital of Bedouin in the State of Israel. Photo byLevi Meir ClancyonUnsplashHistory of the Bedouin in Israel.From the Spice Route to 1948The majority of the Negev Bedouin can trace their history back to the Hejaz region, located in the north of the Arabian peninsula (in modern terms, between Saudi Arabia and the Sinai area). Between the 14th and 18th centuries they began migrating to the Holy Land - of course, when you consider the history of ancient Israel, this means they are relatively new arrivals! They travelled along the IncenseRoute and, in fact, many became wealthy because of their ability to trade luxurious goods. Historically, the Bedouin were (and still are) nomadic or semi-nomadic tribes. They would wander from place to place, in search of agricultural land where their sheep and goats could be put out to pasture, and after they left an area, it would replenish itself naturally. Since they were highly dependent on water, they moved places according to the climate.In the 19th and early 20th centuries, neither the Ottoman rulers nor the British Mandate had any real interest in the desert part of the country, which meant that Bedouin - for the most part - were free to live and act as they chose. Of course, this all changed after the War of Independence (leading to the creation of the State of Israel, in 1948). After Egypt’s soldiers invaded Israel, the Negev soon resembled a terrible background and, soon after, around 90,000 Bedouin fled to Egypt and Jordan. By the end of the war, only 11,000 remained!Mohamed, part of the Israeli Bedouin community in the Negev. Photo byLevi Meir ClancyonUnsplashBedouin History from 1948 onwardsThose in positions of power in the newly created state quickly realised that much of Israel’s landmass (actually, 60% of it) was desert. Not surprisingly, they regarded the Negev desert as an area where development and growth could take place and, in their haste to settle the land, did not give sufficient thought to the Bedouins already there. Today, many historians argue that this policy has continued, insofar that every Israeli government since 1948 has ignored Bedouin claims to the land in their haste to develop it for their own purposes. (To read more about this subject, take a look at ‘Land Ownership’ below)Where Do Israeli Bedouin Live?Israeli Bedouin live in small villages and ‘townships’ in the southern Negev desert. Essentially, this is a ‘triangle’ located between the outskirts of Beersheba, Israel’s gateway city to the south, and the small cities of Dimona and Arad. You can also see Bedouin walking with their animals, en route from Jerusalem to the Dead Sea.Fun fact: it was actually a Bedouin shepherd boy who discovered the Dead Sea Scrollsafter one of his sheep became lost from the flock and he went into the Qumran Caves to look for it. The result? One of the great archaeological discoveries of the 20th century (the Dead Sea Scrolls can be seen today, at the Israel Museum in Jerusalem, where they are housed in a building that has been described as an ‘architectural masterpiece.’A camel rests between trips, Negev Desert.Photo byCole KeisteronUnsplashBedouin Villages in IsraelAfter the War of Independence, few Bedouin remained in the Negev but as the years passed, they slowly began to return. By 1954, about 11,0000 were recognised by Israel as citizens and between 1968 and 1989, Israel built seven townships for them in the northeast of the Negev. Eventually, it is estimated that about 60% of them relocated to these towns, especially to the largest - Rahat. Indeed, by 1984, the population of the town had grown sufficiently to be recognised as a city by Israel, which means today that it is the largest Bedouin city in the world. The other six townships in the Negev in which Bedouins in Israel live today are Tel as-Sabi (Tel Sheva). Ar-arat an-Naqab (Ar’ara BaNegev), Lakiya, Hura, Shaqib al Salam (Segev Shalom) and Kuseife (Kseife). Having a Bedouin Experience When In IsraelIf you’re travelling in Israel, it’s actually possible to see, first-hand, how this nomadic tribe lives, by taking a day tour (or even, sometimes, an overnight tour) to one of the many Bedouin villages in the Negev desert. The experience itself many report as being extraordinary - and one thing for which the Bedouins are well-known in Israel is their hospitality.There is no one typical trip but almost every ‘Bedouin Experience’ will contain certain components, including food, hiking (or trekking with camels) and an overnight stay. Many trips include travel to off-the-beaten-track locations, up in the Judean Hills, or in arid parts of the Negev. Negev tour, rocky desert on horseback, Israel.Photo byGreta Schölderle MølleronUnsplashIt’s possible, often, to take jeep tours (similar toJudaean Desert Safari Private Tour), partake in the age-old ‘coffee ceremony’ (after which you can try pita that’s just come straight from the fire), visit ‘off the grid’ villages and take night hikes under the starry skies. Bedouin lunches and dinners are usually served in a ‘khan’ which is a large Bedouin tent. Meals often take the form of feasts - visitors sit on traditional mats (not tables) and food is served on platters that serve many people. A typical dinner could include homemade pita, salads, tahini and hummus and eggplant, followed by ‘Maklube’, a traditional Arab-style dish. Maklube is a traditional one-pot dish, filled with rice, roasted vegetables and meat, which is flipped upside down when served (‘maklube’ means ‘upside down’ in Arabic!) And whilst it's not common to be served alcohol at these meals, you will be offered juices and sweet baklava for dessert! An overnight stay in a Bedouin tent is often the highlight of a visit. They come in all kinds of shapes and sizes but are often large enough to accommodate dozens of people. Woven out of goat hair, in their most basic form they have mattresses for guests and in more luxurious tents the experience is more like ‘glamping’. Don’t worry either - they have thick rugs on the floor and warm blankets, so you won’t catch a cold, even on winter nights.The Negev Desert, Israel.Photo byMatan PerlmuteronUnsplashLand Ownership Issues:The question of land ownership is still a complex one in modern-day Israel - legally, as well as socially and historically. As stated above, Israel built seven townships (one which became a city) but what is also problematic is the number of unrecognised villages in the country, in which basic services - such as electricity and water - are often hard to come by. As a result, these villages are often ‘off the grid’ and their inhabitants suffer as a result.In the meantime, the Negev Bedouin have been claiming ownership of land in the Negev desert that amounts to 12 times the size of Tel Aviv! Since the 1970s, over 3.000 claims have been filed - the Bedouin argument is that these lands were illegally taken from them after 1948. They wish for these lands to be legally returned to them since they argue that they are indigenous people whose rights are continually being violated by the Israeli government. They argue that these lands are theirs as they were to their grandfathers and fathers and that after the state of Israel was declared, they were not allocated adequate space. In contrast, the Israeli authorities have argued that Bedouins are trying to take over many parts of the Negev by building homes on empty land, staking out farming and grazing areas. Since they have no permits to build, the Israeli government argues that they are effectively building on state-owned land, which is illegal...Israel is currently in the process of building a number of new villages or towns for the Negev Bedouin and these townships are intended to meet all of their future needs. The Israel Land Administration (ILA) also says it is doing everything in its power to deal with the problems of the landless Bedouin in the Negev. Clearly, the matter is very complex, since there are thousands of claimants (approximately 15,000) who represent the clans of the original claimants.The Negev Desert from the car window, Israel.Photo byOndrej BocekonUnsplashIdentity and Culture of Negev BedouinThe Bedouin are extremely tribal in nature and are organised in clans, in which are many extended family members. Bedouin culture is also patriarchal - the head of each family, as well as of each larger unit, which makes up the tribe, is called a sheikh.Each sheikh is aided by an informal tribal council of male elders. Furthermore, polygamy is widely practised in Bedouin society, which means it is quite usual for a Bedouin man to have a number of wives and sometimes even dozens of children. In places such as Egypt and Jordan, the Bedouin are often referred to as Arabs and this is technically correct. However, there is a real distinction - Bedouins are different from other groups because of their extensive kinship networks (giving them a great deal of community support) and rich culture.It is fair to say that the Bedouin have a very traditional (even conservative, by Israeli standards) culture. However, modern-day standards mean that they are far less homogenous a social group than they were, say, 50 years ago and many Bedouin now are pursuing professional and academic careers. In certain instances, they have also been incorporated into the military and police service.For sure, Bedouins are known for their extraordinary hospitality and also resourcefulness (after all, they have managed to survive in harsh climates, with limited resources, for hundreds of years). The Bedouin are also extraordinarily independent - as animal herders, they are used to migrating into the desert during the rainy season and returning to cultivated land in the dry summer months. It is not surprising, therefore, that so many of them have struggled to adapt to ‘urban living’, after moving to towns.A Bedouin man in Wadi Rum, Jordan. Photo byLukas BeeronUnsplashThe Bedouin Attitude towards IsraelThis is a very interesting question since there is a lot of ambiguity in Bedouin attitudes towards Israel. On the one hand, they are not ardent nationalists and struggle to identify with the concept of Zionism. On the other, many are proud Israelis, who choose to serve in the IDF (service which is mandatory for all Jews).Since Israel is very advanced in terms of education and high-tech, this means that more Bedouin have the opportunity to take advantage of technological progress and gain a university education (particularly women).Still, it is fair to say that the Bedouin community suffers from discrimination in Israeli society (particularly because its towns do not have the level of services and resources that they should have). Many Bedouin are still on the bottom rung of the socio-economic ladder in Israel and - by moving to townships - they have lost the traditional livelihoods that sustained them for centuries and, for them, that means a loss of ‘freedom’. So their attitude to Israel, essentially, remains ambivalent.If you are interested in Bedouin culture, feel free to book one of our customizable private tours!

Tourism is slowly returning to the world and Israel is no exception - COVID restrictions are easing and if you’ve been double vaccinated and your last shot was less than 6 months ago, then you’re welcome in the Holy Land. Once you’ve received the results of your PCR test from the airport (which usually takes around 12 hours) you’re free to start exploring - and what better place to start than with two of Israel’s top attractions - Masada and the Dead Sea.Tourists on a day group tour to Masada and the Dead Sea with Bein Harim. Photo credit: © Sarah MannWriting this not just as Bein Harim’s social media maven but as an intrepid solo traveler, I’ve always wondered what it’s like to explore sites abroad with a group, led by a professional, guide and today I’m being given the chance to find out first-hand, joining one of the company’s first-day tours running since Winter 2020! I really have no idea what to expect so I’m coming with an open mind, plenty of sunscreen, snacks, and the requisite bathing suit! Let’s see if it’s all it’s cracked up to be…Tel Aviv pick-up - 6.40 amBleary-eyed, I show up at the pick-up point, in downtown Tel Aviv, early. I quickly spot the other participants - three women, from France, Austria, and the US respectively. They’re all taking a longed-for vacation after Corona and love the idea of a group day tour - they tell me they don’t want to deal with car rentals, Israeli roads, and complications in Hebrew. They also want to learn as much as they can about the area we’re visiting, andguided tours in Israelare perfect for that.And before we know it, here he is, in a bright yellow banana-themed t-shirt. His name’s Itamar and he’s been guiding for over a decade - he’s young, fun, personable, and immediately we all warm to him. We hop in the van and head towards Jerusalem, to pick up our fifth trip member. Before we’ve even hit the highway, he’s giving us a bit of the history of Tel Aviv and quizzing us on our Hebrew. This is going to be fun!Sea Level Sign, on the way to the Dead Sea. Photo credit: ©Sarah MannJerusalem pick-up -7.55 amWe pick up Elena at the hotel - we’re a bit late because we’ve been battling city traffic and then we’re off. Jerusalem’s en route to the Dead Sea and soon we’ve left the city behind and are confronted with desert scenery and Bedouin shepherds. We stop for an obligatory photo at the ‘Sea Level’ sign and stretch our legs - it’s November but the weather is perfect - a toasty 26 degrees. Then we jump back in our van and head south, heading further and further below sea level. The Dead Sea’s the lowest point on earth (!) and we can feel the temperature rising. Itamar reminds us to drink lots of water (a must in this part of the world) and points out things of interest en route, including the Qumran caves (where famousDead Sea Scrollswere discovered there in 1947).There is a number of sinkholes (where the soil has eroded, with devastating consequences) causing parts of Route 90 to be cordoned off. The Dead Sea is evaporating - in the last 30 years it’s said to have lost 30% of its water - and the climate crisis isn’t helping it either.Masada Cable Car, Israel. Photo byDebby HudsononUnsplashIn the meantime, we’re all getting to know each other, chatting about where we’re from and why we took the trip. For some, it’s the first time in Israel, for others a chance to rediscover old places. We’re a group of independent women, all with our own reasons for loving travel, and being driven by Itamar is a delight because he’s hilarious and knowledgeable at the same time. After a pit stop at the Ahava outlet (where we grab a coffee and a couple of us buy some mud pack treatments), it’s onto our first stop of the day - Masada.This ancient fortress is a place I personally have visited a fair few times but I have to admit that every time I return, I get goosebumps. Completely isolated, at the top of a mountain in the midst of the Judean desert, it takes your breath away. Designed by King Herod, a master builder and lover of the good life, not only was Masada his ‘winter retreat’ but also a haven from his enemies. And Herod spared no expense either - this Royal Citadel contained not one but two sumptuous palaces, remains of which have been excavated and we’re going to see today.Looking through an ancient stone wall opening at the Masada ruins in Israel. Photo byCraig VodnikonUnsplashMasada Fortress - 11.30 amBefore we ascend by cable car, Itamar gives us a little history of the complex (which is, by the way, completely fascinating) and we watch a fun 7-minute film, explaining the strategic importance of the fortress and why it’s so important to Israelis today. There’s a lot of Jewish history bound up with this place - after all, it was where Jewish rebels, 2,000 years ago, decided to commit suicide en masse rather than be taken alive (and then be made slaves) by the Romans. A sobering thought - but also a symbol of Jewish resistance, heroism, and bravery. No wonder it’s so revered today.Exploring the Fortress - 12 pmWow! Up we go, in the cable car, with astonishing views below us, including the ‘snake path’ which winds through the mountain precariously. We then spend a good hour exploring the site - frescos, bathhouses, cisterns, storerooms (with tonnes and tonnes of grain), and even a synagogue. Now I realize the advantage of taking guidedMasada tours- Itamar has a wealth of information at his fingertips and I’m learning so much (even as someone who’s studied Jewish history for 20 years). He takes us from place to place, answering our questions, explaining the whys and wheres of this astonishing fortress, treating us to some ‘Bamba’ (a tasty peanut snack that Israelis love, which he packed in his bag in case we became hungry before lunch!) We look at models of Masada, in terms of how it was set out, back in the day, and marvel at the thermal pipes, the aqueducts, and even the sleeping quarters for the guards who protected Herod. Tourists in Masada, Israel.Photo credit: ©Sarah MannThere truly is no end to the resourcefulness of the engineers involved in Masada, we all agree. Built in the year 30 BCE, it’s spread out over three terraces and made up of eight Roman camps, a siege wall, and a ramp constructed of earth and wood, which was established on the western side of the fortress. It’s also an example of a luxurious villa - Herod imported only the finest wines and best food here, no matter the cost and the lengths that armies of servants had to go to transport it. Still, this was a place where the King didn’t just enjoy himself but also conducted business - and Herod was certainly one for impressing his guests.It’s super hot by now and we’re all looking for shade, every time we move to a different spot. Itamar takes us to some fabulous lookout points where, at every turn, we’re afforded panoramic views. The Dead Sea glistens before us, shades of blue and turquoise, and the sky is clear. What’s even more astonishing is that, because of COVID, Masada is almost deserted. We don’t have to wait to enter a single part of the complex and, in certain parts, the silence almost deafens us.Masada ruins, Israel. Photo byKelly ReprezaonUnsplashIt’s also fun to be in a group tour like this - because it’s a lot smaller than normal, it gives us the chance to ask endless questions and really get to know each other better. We’re a very diverse group - Maria grew up in South America and because she’s catholic, it’s always been her dream to visit Israel. Francois’s been in the Holy Land before, but it was over 20 years ago, and in the meantime, she’s been learning Hebrew, Linda’s flown in from LA because she wanted to take a holiday before starting a new job. And Ute’s taking a quick break, having hopped a flight from Vienna to Tel Aviv with Wizz Air. It’s really eye-opening, meeting all these different people, who’ve come from all over the place to visit this country! It’s also good to see how much they’re enjoying their time in Israel and, from what I can see, their day out with Itamar. Our guide reminds us to keep swigging water and we oblige. Now it’s off to the Dead Sea, for a spot of lunch, some floating in the lowest point on earth and some optional mud-slathering!2000-year-old fortress of Masada. Photo credit: © ShutterstockDead Sea - 2.15 pmWe’re heading to Kalia Beach, at the top of the Dead Sea (for which there is an entry fee, but it’s included in the price of the day trip). Itamar, our loveable guide, gives us the lowdown on where to find changing rooms, lockers, and places to grab a bite (because we’re all starving!) Nobody can wait to get into their bathing suit - the idea of floating in water is quite novel! - and soon we’re all at the water’s edge. As someone who’s content just to sit in a chair and admire the views of Jordan from across the water, I soon become the appointed photographer, snapping everyone as they wade in and realize, quite quickly, how buoyant they are!The weather’s good, even though it’s mid-November, and the beach isn’t particularly crowded either. The air feels so clean and pure, and I can’t help but smile as I watch my group trying valiantly to put their feet down in the water! Some are reading books (the ultimate photo opportunity, to show off back home).Some are floating peacefully and one has got out of the water to cover herself in black mud, which can be found all over the beach and is perfect if you want to rejuvenate your skin! Even Itamar has stripped down to his trunks and has gone in, and I have to smile as I watch them all larking around…Floating at the Dead Sea, Kalia Beach, Israel.Photo credit: ©Sarah MannThe beach closes at 4.30 pm (since it gets dark early at this time of the year) and, as sorry as we are to leave, we’re all quite exhausted. We hit the road back to Jerusalem and as we arrive in the city, dusk is turning to dark and the lights are twinkling. Itamar drops off two of our participants (one wants a cocktail, the other has decided - on my recommendation - to make an impromptu visit to the Israel Museum since it’s open until 9 pm that night). Everyone’s swapping numbers and hoping to meet again in Tel Aviv, for dinner, in a couple of days. We’re tired but happy, that’s for sure. By the time we arrive back in Tel Aviv, I’m dead beat, Itamar, who’s gone above and beyond for all of us today, drops us all off personally, close to our homes, and as I hug them all goodbye I wonder why I’ve spent my life avoiding day group tours. After all, even if you’re traveling independently in Israel, there’s no reason why taking these kinds of trips isn’t a great idea.So there you have it - what to expect on a day tour to Masada and the Dead Sea. And whilst I do work for Bein Harim Tours, I have to say that this is a day tour I’d recommend to anyone - history, archaeology, scenery, and a chance to chill out at the beach too. These are sites that everyone should see on a trip to Israel, and taking one of the organized Dead Sea tours is ideal for anyone who doesn’t want to hire a car, appreciates the knowledge of a guide, and wants to make new friends. Competitively priced and giving you a lot of bang for your buck, what’s not to like? In fact, I might even take another one soon. Watch this space… Sunset at the Dead Sea, Israel. Photo byBenjamin RascoeonUnsplash

Israel is a country packed with culture - and for art lovers, there’s an incredible amount to see, and not just in the endless museums scattered all across the country. Sculpture is not what often springs to mind when you say ‘art’ in Israel but it is a medium that’s becoming more and more prevalent.Sculpture in Ilana Goor Museum, Israel.Photo credit: ©Dmitry MishinWhether you’re walking in Israeli sculpture gardens in the big museums of Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, exploring kibbutzim and moshavim (small settlements) in the countryside, or just traveling from place to place and stopping off randomly along the way, you’re going to see sculptures. There’s even one at Ben Gurion airport, at the arrivals gate - a figure reading a book (well, Jews are said to be the people of the book!) Let’s have a look at some of the most popular installations you can see when visiting Israel...From when can we chart the beginnings of Israeli sculpture?It’s fair to say that we can trace the beginnings of Israeli sculpture back to the founding of the Bezalel Academy of Art and Design in 1906. (Bezalel, according to the Hebrew Bible, was the most important artisan of his time, and, appointed by Moses, led the project to build the Ark of the Covenant). Bezalel is situated in Jerusalem, on the Mount Scopus campus of the Hebrew University. It was founded in 1906 by Boris Schatz, a Jewish painter, and sculptor, and is Israel’s oldest educational institution. Schatz had a vision of a ‘national style’ of art that would blend traditional Jewish and Middle Eastern works with a European tradition.What is interesting is that even though Schatz himself was a sculptor, sculpture was not really considered a priority, and much more emphasis was placed on the art of painting, as well as design. Of course, at that time, there were not many sculptors in Israel. The majority of them were immigrants from Europe and their work was often a fusion of European styles with a national artistic trend that was developing in the land of Israel (and, after 1948, the State of Israel).Palmahim Beach sculptures, Israel. Photo byChen MizrachonUnsplashBoris Schatz - The Father of Israeli ArtSchatz himself was considered the Father of Israeli Art. Before arriving in Jerusalem he had studied in Paris and had learned his skill from teachers who took quite a classical approach, so unsurprisingly his own work was very much influenced by this training. Nevertheless, because he was a Zionist, his subjects were primarily Jewish. He took figures from the Bible such as Mattathias ben Johanan and created them in sculptures as a way of representing good over evil. Still, for decades to come sculpture was very much on the periphery of the curriculum. Commemorative SculptureIsrael is filled with monuments commemorating events in the history of the state - both from 1948 (when it was established) until today and before 1948. Many of these are sculptures and have been designed specifically to invoke the notion of remembrance. These sculptures are a form of visual art but what makes them different is that they have been designed to commemorate historical events - and in Israel’s case, tragic events, the most important one being the Holocaust. Sculptures exist all over the country, commemorating what was probably the greatest tragedy in the history of the Jewish people. Fountain "Zodiac Signs", Jaffa.Photo credit: ©Dmitry MishinSculpture at Yad VashemPerhaps one of the most moving places to witness these is at Yad Vashem, Israel’s museum to the murdered six million. Located at Mount Herzl, in Jerusalem, visitors can explore the extensive museum and walk through the grounds, where there are 20 outdoor sculptures that relate to remembrance and the Holocaust. These works include The Warsaw Ghetto Square, the Pillar of Heroism, and the Yad Vashem Candelabra.The Warsaw Ghetto Square - designed by Nathan Rapaport, this monument is made of two bronze reliefs on a red brick wall (symbolizing the wall of the ghetto). On the right, the deportation of Jews to the extermination camps is depicted - young, old, healthy, and sick. On the left, there is a portrayal of the Ghetto Uprising, where men and women, with rifles, stones, and guns, fought heroically against the Nazis.The Pillar of Heroism - this is a three-sided pillar, made of shining stainless steel conclave panels, the front of which bears the inscription: “To the martyrs...the ghetto fighters...the partisans...to those who rebelled in the camps...to the fighters of the underground...to the soldiers in the armies...to those who saved their brethren...to the courageous people who took part in the clandestine immigration...to the heroes of valor and revolt …”The Yad Vashem Candelabra - this symbolic menorah was designed in 1985 by the sculptor Zohara Schatz, the first woman to ever win the Israel Prize. The six-branched aluminium candelabra represents the six million Jews killed and the piece, considered to be one of the museum’s great emblems, is at its entrance.Hall of Names in the Yad Vashem Holocaust History Museum, Jerusalem. Photo bySnowscatonUnsplashSculpture at the Weizmann Institute, RehovotIn 1972, Danny Caravan created the monument “To the Holocaust” at the Weizmann Institute, Israel’s leading scientific institute in Rehovot, a city close to Tel Aviv. Inside a rectangular plaza (which is sunken) is a large bronze sculpture of a broken Torah scroll, balanced in a very unsound way (as if it could fall at any moment) on a white stone basis. A stream of water that flows constantly drips down a crack in the center of the base. The dripping water symbolizes the tears of those who were sent to their death. A Star of David is engraved on the Torah as well as a series of numbers - these are carved to represent the numbers tattooed onto the arms of victims of the camps. There is also an inscription of the first line of the Shema - a central prayer in the Hebrew liturgy and one said traditionally by Jews before death draws close. Sculpture at Kibbutz Mishmar Ha’EmekThe only Holocaust monument established in Israel before the creation of the state in 1948, this is a monument to the children who perished in this terrible time. Located at Kibbutz Ha’Emek, it is nestled in the Jezreel Valley, a beautiful part of northern Israel. A stone wall surrounds a small plaza and carved into the wall are four alcoves, each with sculptured figures. They movingly depict the tiny spaces in which children hid and the ways in which their parents tried to protect them.The Gate of Faithby Daniel Kafri, Jaffa, Israel. Photo byJeremy BezangeronUnsplashThe Billy Rose Sculpture Garden at Jerusalem’s Israel MuseumThe Billy Rose Art Garden, named after the New York theatrical producer and designed by the Japanese-American sculptor Isamu Noguchi, is considered to be one of the most wonderful sculpture gardens of the 20th century. Located in Jerusalem’s world-famous Israel Museum, Noguchi began planning the garden in the early 1960s on the steep slopes of the grounds of the museum and divided it up into different sections, using walls of fieldstones. Noguchi worked with a Zen principle in mind and used materials such as water, gravel, and concrete, as well as incorporating many plants indigenous to the Middle East into his design. Completed in 1965, and set against the backdrop of an astonishing and dramatic Jerusalem landscape, visitors can wander the gardens and see works by many famous sculptures, including Henry Moore, Pablo Picasso, Auguste Rodin, Joel Shapiro, and Menashe Kadishman.Notable pieces include the Indian artist Kapoor Anish’s ‘Turning the World Upside Down’- an hourglass-shaped reflective piece that effectively turns the world on its head. Apparently, it is meant to represent the vision of the former mayor of Jerusalem, Teddy Kollek, who saw Jerusalem as a ‘merger’ of heaven and earth.Another piece that is infinitely photo-worthy (and loved by Instagrammers!) is Robert Indiana’s famous ‘Ahava’ sculpture at the Israel Museum in Jerusalem. Ahava, in Hebrew, means ‘love’ and is spelled out in four Hebrew letters (aleph, heh, bet, heh). Visitors can climb inside the huge steel weathered letters and pose for the camera with the Jerusalem hills in the background.Park Sculpture by Eli Ilan, Har HaBanim, Ramat Gan, Israel. Photo credit: ©Dmitry MishinThe Tel Aviv Museum of Art Sculpture GardenEstablished in 1999, the Tel Aviv Museum’s sculpture garden gives visitors the opportunity to view over 30 contemporary works by sculptors both from Israel and around the world, in its permanent collection. The Lola Beer Ebner Sculpture Garden in Memory of Dolfi Ebner is a true place of peace and tranquility in busy Tel Aviv. A sunken garden, it is surrounded by eucalyptus trees and the perfect place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of Tel Aviv. Visitors should look out for the Tel Aviv–Yafo Mosaic, created in 1999 by Italian artist Enzo Cucchi. It forms the path linking the upper level to the lower one. Another interesting sculpture is by Israeli artist Yitzhak Danziger in 1963. Close by, in Nata’s Garden, are two other sculptures on permanent display: ‘Sisyphus and Jacob Meet by the Well’ by Sigalit Landau and ‘Wreaths’ by Erez Israeli."Mizpor Shalom" - The Ursula Malbin Sculpture Garden, HaifaSituated in Haifa, this is the first sculpture garden in Israel devoted entirely to a female artist. Here, visitors can view many of Ursula Malbin’s works, created in the last 60 years. Mitzpor Shalom (which in English means ‘Peace Park’) is close to the Bahai Gardens.Tel Aviv Museum of Art.Photo credit: ©Dmitry MishinThe Omer Open Museum Sculpture GardenThis sculpture garden can be found just outside of Beersheba, the getaway city to Israel’s Negev desert. Omer is a small ‘yishuv’ (a settlement created before the State of Israel was created) and on the grounds of its Open Museum visitors can see a range of artworks from the museum collection. The collection includes sculptures by the following artists: Ilan Averbuch, Shlomo Selinger, Shlomo Schwarzberg, Ofra Zimbalista, Gengiz Çekil. As well as the permanent works, the garden also features temporary sculpture exhibitions. Omer is one of three Open Museums (the other two are Tefen and Tel-Hai, in the north of Israel) and another sculpture garden - Dalton - which have all been established within industrial parks in Israel.Kibbutz Dalia Sculpture Garden, GalileeLocated in Galilee, this sculpture garden was established by kibbutz member Nathan Ezra Yenuka who wanted to focus on art and present it in a way that really represented the spirit of the community. There are 24 works to see and they are made of all kinds of material, including polyester, marble, and even local rocks. Bahai Gardens, Haifa.Photo credit: ©Dmitry MishinVarda Yatom Sculpture Gallery, Upper GalileeLocated in Kibbutz Sasa, in the Upper Galilee, artist Varda Yatom is considered to be one of Israel’s leading ceramic sculpture artists and has a wonderful gallery which you can visit, and meet Varda herself. The kibbutz also boasts a museum of archaeology (free entry) and panoramic views of northern Israel and Lebanon. Our tip: don’t miss their ice cream parlor - the flavors are fantastic!Sculpture Park at Mitzpe Ramon, Negev HillsThe brainchild of Ezra Orion, this sculpture park is located on the edge of the Maktesh Ramon (the Ramon Crater) which was formed over millions of years. It runs for 2 kilometers and was created in 1963 after artists from across the world were invited to arrive and create whatever piece they chose. The only condition - they had to chisel their pieces out of one large rock. Take a trip to the Negev desert, visit Mitzpe Ramon and decide for yourself what some of these weird and wacky creations represent!To explore Israeli sculpture in detail feel free to join our private tours.

When reading about the history of the Middle East and, in particular, the Holy Land, you’ll often hear references to the term ‘‘ancient Israel’. But what does that really mean? Well, in large part it is to do with the tribes and kingdoms that were formed by the Jewish people in the Levant in ancient times. (The Levant is an area that, today, is made up of Lebanon, Jordan, Syria, Israel and Palestine)A camel rests between trips, Negev Desert, Israel.Photo byCole KeisteronUnsplashAncient Israel's main agricultural products were grapes, olives, lentils, dates and grains (usually wheat or barley). Over time, they developed a thriving trade with Egypt, Greece and Cyprus (using their ports on the Mediterranean). But how did they travel further afield? By creating different routes, some which ran by the sea and others which ran over hilly terrain.Below we’ll be taking a look at certain ancient routes in Israel - some no longer exist, and others have been ‘modernised’ to give tourists a sense of what life was like thousands of years ago when people travelled by foot and with camels to explore new lands and trade their wares...The Via MarisThe Via Maris was, for sure, one of the most significant ancient Israel trade routes. Both In Hebrew (‘Derech haYam’) and Latin, this means ‘ Way of the Sea’ and references to it can be found both in Isaiah (in the Hebrew Bible) and Matthew (in the Christian Bible). It dates back to the early Bronze Age and was a route linking Egypt with the northern empires of Syria, Mesopotamia and Anatolia.‘Via Maris’ is a Roman term and the reference to the sea is, of course, theMediterranean Sea- the stretch of coast through which the route passed. It is also known by other names - the ‘Coastal Road’ and ‘the way of the Philistines’ and in modern-day Israel, it is referred to as the ‘International Coastal Highway.’Tel Aviv Port, Israel. Photo byShai PalonUnsplashThe Via Maris was one of three major trade routes that were used in ancient Israel, along with the Ridge Route and the King’s Highway. Within ancient Israel, it ran from the Galilee (in the north) to Samaria (in the south) and passed through the Jezreel Valley. Along the route, it split into two branches - one that ran along the coast from Acre down to Ashkelon and Gaza, and the other that took an inland route, through the Sea of Galilee and Jezreel Valley, the two branches reunited at Megiddo (known in contemporary times as ‘Armageddon’).The Via Maris was a principal coastal highway for traders and the one most of them chose to travel on from Egypt and then far north. There were simple reasons for this - it was close to water, sources of food and towns. It also avoided the highlands. Megiddo was equally important as a pit stop on this route, guarding the western branch of a narrow pass on the most important trade route of the ancient Fertile Crescent. Sea of Galilee, Israel. Photo byChris GallimoreonUnsplashThe Via Maris connected all of the major trade routes stretching from Egypt and Syria to Iraq, Turkey and modern-day Iran. As a major thoroughfare, it connected the Sinai with Damascus passing, as mentioned before, through the Jezreel Valley. Over the centuries, after the Jews were exiled from Israel, that valley was abandoned and became a marshy, swampy area. It was only revitalised after Zionist pioneers arrived in the early 20th century and set about draining the land; today, of course, it is unrecognisable - filled with orchards, greenhouses and kibbutzes/moshavim that produce all kinds of fruits and vegetables.Crucially, branches of the Via Maris also intersected with the major trade routes of its era including the Silk Road, the Indus Valley and beyond. The Via Maris was a ‘home base’ for explorations of worlds beyond - indeed, it was really the beginning of commerce, where Jews would trade fish, grains, oil and dairy for everyday staples from the Far East (as well as luxuries like spices). Nachsholim Beach, Nahsholim, Israel. Photo byBen MichelonUnsplashThe King’s HighwayThe Kings Highway (also referred to as the ‘Via Nova Traiana’ was an ancient thoroughfare that connected the Gulf of Aqaba and Syria through the area that we now know as Jordan. One of the world’s oldest continually used routes of communication, it is mentioned in the Hebrew Bible. The King’s Highway was a crucial passage for ancient trade, running from north to south of this part of the Levant. The Roman Emperor Trajan (who reigned from 98-1117 CE) actually renovated the road, in his desire to improve communications and transport between Aqaba and Bostra.Once ‘modernised’ the road was then referred to as the ‘Via Nova Traiana’ (as opposed to another road, in Italy, that had been built by the same Emperor, named ‘Via Traiana’. The King’s Highway was a crucial artery for Crusaders, journeying from Europe via Syria to Jerusalem on their military pilgrimages and for the interested visitor, there are many fortified castles to be explored on its route, even today.Today, the King’s Highway is still promoted as a tourist attraction with more rural parts of Jordan. It links up important historical sites such as Al Karak, Al Tafilah and, most notably, Petra, as well as beautiful natural sites such as Wadi Al Mujib.Wadi Rum, Aqaba, Jordan. Photo byRinaldo VadionUnsplashThe Ridge RouteThis path was of less importance for international trade than either the Via Maris or the King’s Highway but, nevertheless, travellers used this route. They would travel through the hills of Judea and Samaria, passing by the city of Jerusalem. It was called the Ridge Route (or sometimes the Hill Route) because it followed the watershed ridgeline of the surrounding mountains.The Way of the PatriarchsThis ancient north-south route crisscrossed the land of Israel. It was given this name by biblical scholars because of its having been mentioned in biblical narratives. This, you see, was the route often travelled by Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the three founding fathers of Judaism.Also known as Derech ha Avot (the Hebrew term), it linked Jerusalem and Hebron and today can be found between the communities of Alon Shvut and Neve Daniel in the Gush Etzion part of Judea. Unlike the Via Maris and the King’s Highway, which were ancient roads that ran international borders and passed through the territory of many different peoples, this route was entirely within the territory of ancient Israel.Snow in Kings Highway, Jordan.Photo by Thales Botelho de Sousa on UnsplashThe Incense RouteThe Incense Route was an ancient trade network of important land and sea trading routes. It connected the Eastern world with the Mediterranean and involved ports all across Egypt and the Levant, as well as northeastern Africa, Arabia, India and the Far East. From the 3rd century BCE until 2 CE, the Nabateans were transporting incense across the desert, from Arabia to the Mediterranean and, from then on, demand for other luxury goods in the Roman world flourished. The Incense Route was a way to trade all kinds of articles, including Arabian frankincense and myrrh. Gold, rare woods and feathers came from Africa whilst precious stones, pearls, silk and spices arrived from India and further east. The Incense Trade Route was, in the main, controlled by the Arabs, who transported goods by camel caravans and for almost 700 years, this hazardous but very profitable trade was carried on.Mamshit, Nabatean city, part of the Incense Road, Israel. Photo credit: Jenny EhrlichMerchants also had other ingenious ways of trading on this route - indeed, some individuals in Southern Arabia constructed inflatable rafts made out of animal skins. From there, they could secretly float bundles of incense out on the Arabian sea, where ships were clandestinely waiting for them. The ships would then sail up the Red Sea in the dead of night and drop off the incense at ports in Egypt.Today, visitors to Israel can explore the Incense Route down in the Negev desert. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a wonderful site, with archaeological sites and desert panoramas. The ‘Spice Route’ as it is called by locals, is perhaps best explored on a jeep trip since much of the terrain (especially in the Arava part of the desert) is barren and suitable only for experienced hikers.Travelling north on the Spice Route, a particularly fine place to visit is Mitzpe Ramon, home to the world-famous crater. Whether you want to hike inside it, wander around its parameters and enjoy the views or abseil down its side, you’re bound to enjoy yourself. There’s also an ‘Artists Quarter’ nearby, as well as a farm selling local goats’ cheeses and many visitors choose to stay overnight in Bedouin campsites.Mitzpe Ramon, Israel. Photo byDmitry ShamisonUnsplashThe Gospel TrailThe Gospel Trail was established by Israel’s Ministry of Tourism in November 2011, giving Christian pilgrims (and indeed anyone else interested in this period of history) the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of Jesus. Consisting of over 60 km of paths and roads with special signposts, tourists can walk, hike or cycle as little or as much of the route as they choose. The route itself runs through Galilee, beginning at Nazareth (where Jesus spent many of his formative years) and ending at Capernaum, on the edge of the Sea of Galilee. It follows the route Jesus was supposed to have taken (referenced in the Book of Matthew, in the Christian Bible) when he left his hometown and set off for Galilee, where he would begin his ministry.The main part of the route begins, as stated above, in Nazareth, and visitors can walk along the Nazareth range, affording panoramic views of Mount Tabor, the Church of the Transfiguration, Kfar Kanna, and the Turan Valley.Column in the synagogue,Capernaum, Israel. Photo byPhil GoodwinonUnsplashThe path then slopes down through the Arbel cliffs towards the sea of Galilee, until it reaches ancient Magdala (the home of Mary Magdalene). From Magdala, it continues north along the Sea of Galilee until it reaches what is known as the ‘Holy Triangle’ - the places that are the Mount of Beatitudes, Tabgha, and Capernaum.From there, visitors can walk the length of the Sea of Galilee on the promenade (or bike around it, if they are fit!) and stop along the way to see all kinds of attractions, including national parks, churches and the baptismal site of Yardenit.Israel National Trail (Shvil Israel)This hiking trail traverses the length of the country, stretching approximately 1000 km from Kibbutz Dan in the far north (near the Lebanon border) all the way down to Eilat, on the Red Sea. Loved by nature enthusiasts, biblical scholars, and adventurers alike, it's the perfect way to see Israel’s natural beauty.The Israel National Trail was the idea of Abraham Tamir and Ori Dvir, who were avid Israeli hikers. Inaugurated in 1995, it has given thousands of locals and tourists the opportunity to experience Israel’s varied landscapes up close and personal - from mountains and hills to deserts and wadis. A continuous footpath across the country, it has been lauded by nature enthusiasts, ramblers, hikers, and even National Geographic.Mountains near Eilat, Israel.Photo byJosh AppelonUnsplash

Israel is home to all kinds of religious and ethnic groups - Jews, Christians, Muslims and those of the Baha'i faith. But one group isn’t talked about as much - and that is the Druze. Indeed, even in Israel, many of its citizens don’t know much about this small minority who have lived in the religion for thousands of years.Druze man in his car. Photo by Marquise de Photographie on UnsplashThe Druze community is, within the Levant, not a small group - in fact, it numbers between 800,000 and a million followers. Based mainly in Lebanon, Syria, and Israel (and a small number in Jordan) there is a certain amount of mystery surrounding them since many of their practices are kept secret not just from ‘outsiders’ but even from members of their own community.Indeed, even today, only a small privileged number of Druze known as ‘Uqqal’ (followers) participate fully in Druze religious rituals and are given access to the teachings of their secret scriptures. Moreover, since Druze have historically been forbidden from marrying outside their own faith (and intermarriage today is still unusual) it is hard for those outside their society to fully grasp the inner workings of their community.So what do we know about the Druze, particularly those in Israel? Is it possible to visit them and experience their hospitality? Can one convert to the Druze faith or pray with Druze? And how do they seem themselves, as a minority in the state? Let’s take a closer look at some of their beliefs and practices, and find out more about these fascinating people...Druze guard in Jerusalem, Israel. Photo byLevi Meir ClancyonUnsplashHistory of the DruzeThe history of the Druze is indeed a fascinating one with historians, anthropologists, and geneticists still arguing about their origins today. There remains much dispute as to whether the Druze are of Turkish, Arabian, Persian, or Caucasus descent. No one is entirely sure but recent findings point to them hailing from a region somewhere between northeastern Turkey, northern Iraq, and southwest Armenia, bordering the Ararat and Zagros mountains. The Druze are first mentioned by a 12th-century traveler named Benjamin of Tudela, who wrote of them as being ‘fearless mountain-dwelling warriors who favored the Jews.’ Historians now believe the first Druze worshippers lived in Cairo, under the protection of Al-Hakim bi-Amr Allah, the ruler of Egypt and the eastern Mediterranean. After his rule, however, the Druze were persecuted terribly and many fled to other parts of the Levant. (This persecution may, in part, account for the fact that their faith soon became ‘closed’ to outsiders).Pyramids of Giza, near Cairo, Egypt. Photo by Simon Berger on UnsplashDruze ReligionWithout a doubt, the Druze are a unique religious and ethnic group. With a tradition dating back to the 11th century, their faith incorporates elements of different traditions including Islam, Hinduism, and even classical philosophy. The Druze place a great emphasis on spiritual purity and religious philosophy and their faith has many mentors, including John the Baptist, Moses, Jesus, and the Prophet Mohammed. However, unlike Christianity, Judaism, or Islam, the Druze have no clear holy days, pilgrimage obligations, or even a clear liturgy. Druze people are also admirers of Greek philosophers such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle! What is interesting about the Druze religion is that although the faith originally developed out of the Ismaili Shia branch of Islam, the Druze certainly do not identify as Muslims. In fact, Druze's philosophy supports the idea of reincarnation and believes that at the end of the cycle of rebirth (after many reincarnations) the soul will be united with the Cosmic Mind. This is a much more Hindu-like approach! The Druze do adhere to the idea of ‘theophany’ i.e. the appearance of a Deity (or even a personal encounter with a Deity), as well as their belief in the oneness of God. However, their holy book - known as the Book of Wisdom - is not known to many (it is not accessible or even comprehensible to those outside the faith).Aristotle's Metaphysics translated by Joe Sachs.Photo byTbel AbuseridzeonUnsplashThe Druze comunity in IsraelThe Druze population in Israel, according to the most current census carried out in 2019, stands at approximately 145,000. This is a dramatic increase since the eve of the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948 when the Druze community numbered just 14,500. This means that the Druze account for 1.6% of the total population of the country.Druze communities can be found in the north of Israel, predominantly in Galilee, the Carmel, and parts of the Golan Heights. Whilst it is certainly possible to visit Druze villages in Israel and experience great hospitality, it should be noted that in many respects they are a tight-knit and secretive spiritual community.One of the largest and most interesting Druze villages in Israel is Daliat-el-Carmel, around 20 kms southeast of Haifa. It has a bustling Saturday market (which is closed on Friday, the Druze sabbath) where you can buy handcrafted items and Druze souvenirs from Israel (don’t forget to bargain!) as well as local Druze restaurants and cafes at which you can sample excellent hummus. The Druze holiday of Nabi Shuʿayb atDaliat-el-Carmel, Israel. Photo credit: © ShutterstockOlder residents will be wearing long flowing gowns; younger residents dress in more Western-style clothing. Within the oldest part of town, look out for the shrine of Abu Ibrahim, whom the Druze consider a prophet, as well as the Oliphant House, home to Lawrence Oliphant, a British diplomat, mystic, and Christian Zionist of the 19th century.Just outside of the village (a few minutes' drive away) is the Carmelite Monastery of St. Elijah (also known as the ‘Muhraka monastery’). It is believed to be the place where Elijah offered a sacrifice to God, which in turn, was answered by God who sent down fire from the heavens. Inside the catholic chapel is a small sanctuary but it is the gardens that are really lovely, offering visitors the chance to engage in some peaceful contemplation or take the walking trail. For spectacular panoramic views of the Carmel, climb up to the roof. Daliat el-Carmel makes for an excellent day trip, which lets you also visit the charming artist’s village of Ein Hod, nearby.The Carmel Mount, Israel.Photo byYoav NironUnsplashDruze ZionismThe Druze community in Israel is extremely patriotic and their loyalty to the state is without question. The cultivation of a ‘special relationship’ between Jews and Druze began in the 1930s, in the form of a paramilitary alliance (which may have gone some way to alienate Druze Palestinians from their Sunni Muslim neighbors). Since the establishment of Israel, the general consensus has been that the Druze are natural allies of the Israeli state since they are loyal to the point of being prepared to fight in combat units. Israel has also recognized them as a separate Arab community since 1957. ||Druze IdentityAccording to recent research, 90$% of Israeli Druze feel very connected to their community and say they have a strong sense of belonging. The Druze in Israel are overwhelmingly proud of their identity and also believe (like many Jews and Muslims) that they have a special responsibility to take care of other members of their community around the world.What is also interesting is how they define themselves - what being Druze means to them. Is it culture, faith, or history? Here there is no clear consensus. Again, because no one can convert to the faith or technically leave the faith, outside accounts of Druze culture that exist are quite limited. A street in Daliat-el-Carmel, Israel.Photo credit: © ShutterstockIn terms of the ‘rules’ that they must follow, these include a prohibition on alcohol, tobacco, and pork. Polygamy is forbidden and men and women are technically viewed as equals, although whilst the role of women in Druze society is slowly changing, the Druze women are still seen, primarily, as mothers and daughters within the social hierarchy. Marriage is encouraged, but no Druze couple is permitted to marry until the prospective husband has built them a home. In terms of their economic contribution, historically Druze worked on the land but many have now entered the mainstream workforce, and are represented in all sections of society. Even Druze women, who traditionally worked in fields of teaching and education, are breaking into the world of finance and high tech. Indeed, spearheaded by fintech company Finastra in Kfar Saba (just 45 minutes drive from Tel Aviv), Druze women are being actively recruited into computer programming careers.The Druze FlagThere are variations of the Druze flag but the one thing all versions contain is five specific colors - green, red, yellow, blue, and white. Each color has different symbolic meanings: Red - the moon, the soul, and the ‘feminine’; green - the sun, the mind, and the ‘masculine’; blue - mental power and ‘the will’; yellow - ‘the word’ (i.e. the purest form of God’s truth); white - ‘the realization’ (i.e. the fulfillment of the word).The Druze Flag.By © Verdy pRelations with the Jews from 1948 to Present DayOn the eve of the War of Independence, the Druze had no hesitation in allying themselves with Israel, unlike most of the Palestinian Arabs. Historically, in 1942, after the Sunni leadership in Jerusalem threatened in 1942 to take control of the tomb of Jethro (‘Shuʿayb’’ to the Druze) in Tiberias, the Druze sided with the Jews and this has continued since - indeed, Druze soldiers have fought for Israel in every war since 1948. Today, not only are they well represented in the IDF but they also work in Israel’s diplomatic Corps and the Border Police. Military service and public officeThe Druze are very active in public life and not just subject to the military draft (the Israel Defence Force) but willing participants. Actually, for more than 40 years, there was a military unit composed primarily of Druze Infantry, called the ‘Herev’ (in Hebrew ‘Sword Battalion’). Distinguishing itself, it was awarded with two citations over the years (one for its operational activities in Lebanon, in the second war, and the other for infiltrating an Egyptian intelligence unit in the Negev).The Heruv battalion was dismantled in 2015 although, today, 80% of the Druze population in Israel is still drafted into the IDF and their soldiers have a stellar reputation for excelling in combat units.The Golan Heights.Photo byAviv Ben OronUnsplashStatus and position of the Druze in the Golan HeightsThe Druze who live in the Golan (as opposed to around the Carmel and the Galilee) in general have a more complicated relationship with Israel. In general, they refuse citizenship of Israel and in Majdal Shams, many still have relatives on the Syrian side of the border. Madjal Shams overlooks the divide between the Israeli-occupied part of the Golan and the plateau controlled by forces loyal to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, Indeed, after the Golan was first annexed, the local Druze went on strike for some weeks until the Israeli government promised not to issue them with identity cards.To sum up then, if you’re visiting Israel, and especially if you’re planning on spending some time in the north of the country, particularly around the Galilee and Nazareth, why not visit one of the Druze villages - including Isfaya, Beit Jann, Pe’kin, Kasra, and Julis. With their tradition of warm hospitality and excellent cooking, you can see for yourself what makes them such a unique and extraordinary part of Israeli society.If you wish to explore the Druze culture and to distill the Druze secrets, feel free to book aHaifa and the Carmel Private TourThe destination sign at the Golan Heights.Photo byKarima AonUnsplash

Beersheba is the largest city in the south of Israel and often referred to as the ‘Capital of the Negev.’ Historically, it was home to many Jews from Sephardic backgrounds (i.e. those who immigrated to Israel from Arab countries). Over time, more immigrants arrived from Ethiopia and the former Soviet Union and today the city has a very mixed feel.Tel Beer Sheva, Israel. Photo credit: © Doron Nissim. Published with permission of the Israel Nature and Parks AuthorityThe outskirts of Beersheba are also home to many Bedouin - nomadic Arab tribes, who practice Islam and who mainly live in their own townships, built between 1968-1989 by Israel. The city has grown substantially since the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948 and today is home to the prestigious Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, as well as an emerging high-tech scene in Omer, a suburb just outside the city.Etymology of the name BeershebaEtymologically, be’er is the Hebrew word for ‘well’ and sheva could either mean ‘seven’ or ‘oath’ (see the history section below for more about this). In terms of what the city’s name actually refers to, there are a few explanations. These refer to Beersheba meaning: the oath of Abraham and King Abimelech (‘Well of the Oath’); the seven wells supposedly dug by Isaac (‘Seven Wells’); the oath of Isaac and King Abimelech (‘Well of the Oath’); the seven young lambs that sealed Abraham and King Abimelech's oath (‘Well of the Seven’).Beersheba in the BibleBeersheba has an interesting biblical history. According to the Hebrew Bible, it was created after Abraham built a well (‘be’er’ in Hebrew) in the Negev desert. After the king’s servants captured his well, Abraham complained to their master. The dispute was eventually settled with an accord (agreement) and they both, then, together, swore an oath (‘shevua’ in Hebrew) to confirm this.Beersheba symbolized the southern boundary of the Land of Israel. Historically, it was also the home of not just Abraham, but the other two Israelite patriarchs - Jacob and Isaac. It was an important center in Israelite times until the destruction of its altar in 7 BCE.Tel Beer Sheva National Park. Photo credit: © Nadav Taube. Published with permission of the Israel Nature and Parks AuthorityHistory of BeershebaThe earliest remains of settlement at Beersheba were found by archaeologists in the form of a number of rock-hewn dwellings (11th/12th centuries BCE) as well as a deep well that supplied fresh water to the first permanent settlement of the Israelites from the Tribe of Simeon. Much of this site was excavated in the late 1960s and early 1870s, uncovering several layers of settlement remains, including fortified towns from the early Israelite period and the time of the Kingdom of Judah.Geography of BeershebaSo where exactly is Beersheba? Well, if you look at a map of Israel, it’s situated on the northeastern edge of the Negev desert. It is 120 km southwest of Jerusalem and 115 km southeast of Tel Aviv. Because of the existence of water (which flows south from the Hebron hills each winter) and remains underground, it has been populated for thousands of years. Beersheba’s main river is the Beersheba stream which floods in the winter. Climate of BeershebaIn Beersheba, the summers are long, hot, and very dry. The winters, in contrast, are cold and mostly clear. Throughout the year, the temperatures can range from 7 to 35 degrees. Rainfall is rare but sandstorms occur periodically, as well as flash floods in the colder months.Demography and Economy of BeershebaBeersheba is the fourth largest city in Israel (after Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Haifa) with a population of 204,000, and an estimated population of 300,000 by 2030. It is a predominantly Jewish city, with 97% of its occupants identifying as Jews.The economy of Beersheba is growing, with the three biggest employers being the Soroka Medical Centre, the IDF (Israel Defence Forces), and Ben-Gurion University. A high-tech park is currently being built near the north railway station and another, the Sammy Ofer park, is located in nearby Omer. The city is also home to a number of electronic and chemical plants, including Teva Pharmaceuticals.The archeological site of Tel Beer Sheva, Israel. Photo credit: © Tsvika Tsuk. Published with permission of the Israel Nature and Parks AuthorityMuseums and Art Galleries in BeershebaAnzac Museum, Beersheba - the Anzac Memorial Centre is a wonderful center that tells the story of the ANZAC soldiers - hundreds of horsemen who came from Australia and New Zealand - who fought bravely in First World War Palestine. It tells the story of these soldiers and the conquest of the city in the course of the Battle of Beersheba (1917) in a very experiential manner, giving visitors the opportunity to journey back to another time and place.Old Quarter, Beersheba - the new ‘Old City’ in Beersheba was designed to provoke an upturn in tourism and seems to have had some success. The old train terminal has been restored, along with a Turkish engine (dating back to Ottoman times), two original railroad cars, and the station master’s dwelling. The historic city of Beersheba, widely known as "the Old City" is a unique example of a well-planned city, built by the Ottomans. Designed by German and local Arab architects it was once an extraordinary combination of oriental and modern. Alongside beautiful gardens and well-planned streets were fine oriental buildings, with ornate balconies and beautiful Arches and you can see these again today.Art Museum of the Negev, BeershebaThe museum’s collection mainly relates to modern Israeli art but, over the years, began displaying exhibitions of ceramics and international art. Back in Ottoman times, it was the home of the Governor and during the First World War, it housed British Officers. An important biblical site of Tel Beer Sheva. Photo credit: © Tsvika Tsuk. Published with permission of the Israel Nature and Parks AuthoritySites of BeershebaAbraham’s Well International Visitors Centre - According to the world’s three monotheistic religions (Christianity, Islam, and Judaism), this is the spot at which Abraham dug his famous well, leading the city to be named as such. Visitors are invited to join a tour (approximately 1 hour) where the story of Abraham is recounted and learn about the different roles of wells in ancient times. There is also the opportunity to watch a 3D movie with subtitles (in nine different languages). Israeli Air Force museum - one of the top attractions in Beersheba, here you can see an enormous collection of airplanes and helicopters, some of which you’ll even be able to explore and scramble upon, as well as a video on offer telling the story of Israel’s air force. As you might imagine, this museum is particularly popular on Israel Independence Day (when you can visit for free!)Negev Zoo - this zoo has a good collection of mammals, reptiles, and birds - keep a special lookout for the lizards, snakes, and turtles!Carasso Science Park - this family-friendly science museum offers visitors both young and old a variety of outdoor displays and interactive exhibits. It’s very much a hands-on experimental place, designed to stimulate kids’ interest in technology and science. It has seven specialized laboratories, dealing with subjects such as genetics, crops, and nuclear energy, as well as a 3D printing facility. It is open every day save for Friday.Driving in the Negev Desert, Israel.Photo byOndrej BocekonUnsplashTel Beer Sheba - these UNESCO-listed biblical city ruins can be found several kilometers east of the modern city today. This ancient town was originally built on a low hill on the banks of a wadi (dry river bed) which flooded each winter. These include an altar (once used for sacrifice), a well of 68 meters deep (one of the deepest in Israel), and the city gates (two, an outer and also the main gate, guarded by two towers). Visitors can also see the “Governor’s Palace'' which once boasted ceremonial halls, a storeroom (one of the largest buildings in the ancient city) which, when excavated, were found to contain hundreds of pottery vessels, and a water system, built deep into the chalk rock of the city fortifications.Transportation in BeershebaBeersheba, as the gateway city to the Negev, is well-served by public transport, which is fast, efficient, and relatively cheap. Egged bus number 470 from Beersheba to Jerusalem runs every half an hour from the main station and takes approximately 1 hour and 32 minutes, dropping you at the third floor of the Jerusalem Central bus station. Buses from Tel Aviv to Beersheva also run regularly, both from the Levinsky bus station and Savidor on the Namir Road. The fastest journey will take about 1 hour 13 minutes. Taking the train from Tel Aviv to Beersheba is also a good option - trains leave from Savidor, HaShalom, and HaHaganah stations every 30 minutes and the journey takes just under 1 hour 30 minutes with a fast train.From Beersheba to Eilat, there are buses leaving constantly, traveling directly south on Route 40. The journey will take approximately 3 hours with bus 397. From there, visitors can take tours to Jordan, especially tours to Petra. Even a day tour of Petra is possible since travel time from the border of Eilat/Aqaba to Petra is only 2 hours by car or minibus.Tel Beer Sheva, Beersheba, Israel. Photo credit: © Nadav Taube. Published with permission of the Israel Nature and Parks Authority

Mitzpe Ramon is a town in the Negev Desert of Southern Israel. Most visitors to the Holy Land pass Mitzpe Ramon on their way to the Dead Sea or stop briefly to see the town’s most important attraction – the Ramon Crater. Mitzpe Ramon is located on the northern edge of the Ramon Crater, the largest erosion cirque in the world. In Hebrew “mitzpe” means lookout and the town of Mitzpe Ramon literally looks out across the Ramon Crater. It is a small isolated community, surrounded by spectacular natural beauty. Mitzpe attracts tourists that want to venture into the desert and artists who come to be inspired but the Negev’s dramatic landscape and endless starry skies.The Birth of Mitzpe RamonIn the early 1950s, a group of workers was sent to Southern Israel to construct Route 40, the country’s north-south intercity highway. The workers were accommodated at the Independence Camp established where Mitzpe Ramon stands today. A group of young families settled permanently in Mitzpe Ramon and established a cooperative agricultural settlement. In 1957 the government came up with a plan to develop the settlement, build homes and support employment by opening quarries, industrial plants, and tourist sites in the area. By 1961 the town had 370 residents and 180 homes were built to accommodate an influx of new immigrants from India, North Africa, and Holocaust survivors from Europe. It was not easy to live in the fledgling community with the harsh desert conditions, limited food supplies, hardly any amenities, and only prefabricated asbestos barracks for the new settlers.Conditions improved in the early 1970s and the town had a population of about 1,400 people. Mitzpe suffered a blow to the economy when the new Arava Road was constructed redirecting traffic on route to Eilat to bypass Mitzpe. When the Ramon Army Airbase was built nearby in the 1980s Mitzpe Ramon grew and by the end of the 1990s, the town’s population had swelled having absorbed arriving immigrants from the former Soviet Union. The original route 40 to Eilat is now considered the scenic route and brings travelers through Mitzpe Ramon once again.Why Visit Mitzpe RamonThe main reason to visit Mitzpe Ramon is as a base for exploring the Negev Desert and the Ramon Crater. The Mitzpe Ramon Visitor Center is a good place to start. There are many opportunities for desert safaris, extreme sporting adventures in the Ramon Crater, cycling, hiking, and mountain biking. Visit nearby ancient ruins dating back 2,000 years, take a camel ride in the desert, or see the Ramon Crater from the Albert Promenade. Mitzpe Ramon and the surrounding desert are perfect for star-gazing thanks to the lack of city light pollution in the desert. There are star-gazing tours at night that leave from Mitzpe Ramon and 5km west of Mitzpe Ramon is the Wise Observatory overlooking the Ramon Crater. Mitzpe Ramon is home to several bed and breakfasts as well as hotels like the luxury Beresheet Mitzpe Ramon Isrotel where each room has views of the desert. You could even have a Bedouin experience and stay overnight in the desert.Mitzpe Ramon hosts festivals and musical events throughout the year. The Artist Quarter is home to creative artists who come to Mitzpe Ramon for the isolation, pristine surroundings, and to escape the rat race. Mitzpe Ramon has gained a reputation as a spa destination where people come to relax and recharge their batteries. You can enjoy spa treatments, or attend a yoga retreat or spiritual workshop in the desert. The town’s Spice Route Quarter is another magnet for people seeking positive energy and spiritual surroundings. See local animal life at Bio Ramon, home to 40 species from the Negev, or visit the nearby Alpaca Farm. Believe it or not, the Negev also has several excellent wineries where tours and tastings are available.

The Tower of David site consists of a medieval fortress which has been altered several times over the years. Although it is called “David’s” Tower it actually has no connection to King David. Roman historian Josephus Flavius mistakenly attributed the tower to Kind David when in fact it was originally the Tower of Phasael and dates back to the time of Herod. When Westerners arrived in the Holy Land seeking biblical sites they too interpreted the site as David’s palace.History of the CitadelAccording to archaeological findings and references in the Bible Hezekiah King of Judea expanded the fortifications of Jerusalem to include the hill to the west of Temple Mount in the late 8th century BC. In the 2nd century, BC fortifications were expanded further and in the 1st century AD, Herod added three towers to the fortifications of the northwestern corner of the western hill where the Citadel now stands.Herod’s towers were intended to protect the city and his palace on Mt. Zion. Herod called the towers Mariamne in honor of his second wife who had been executed and buried near the towers; Hippicus in honor of one of his friends and the tallest of the tower, Phasael, in memory of his deceased brother. Of the three towers, only the base of the Phasael Tower survived.After the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD, the Romans used the Citadel to house troops and in the 4th century, Christian monks inhabited the Citadel. It was during the Byzantine era that the Citadel was erroneously associated with David’s Palace which is mentioned in Samuel II. The Citadel was known as the Tower of David from that point on.The Mamluks built a citadel in 1310 on the remains of Herod’s earlier fortifications. The Ottomans expanded the citadel in the 16th century and it served as their garrison for 400 years. They added a mosque to the site and built a minaret in 1635-1655 on the remains of Herod’s Phasael Tower. This minaret (and the entire fortress complex) has become a symbol of the city.Under the British Mandate (1917-1948) the citadel was used as a cultural center and under Jordanian rule from 1948 to 1967 the citadel once again took on a military role. Following the Six-Day War in 1948 the citadel returned to Israel jurisdiction. The Tower of David Museum was opened in 1989.The Citadel MuseumThe Museum of the History of Jerusalem traces the major historical events that have taken place in Jerusalem over the 4,000 years from the second millennium BC to 1948 when the State of Israel was established. To appeal to all visitors the museum uses advanced digital technology, holograms, and activities.Visitors can walk along the citadel walls and in the courtyard where archaeological findings are on display. From the top of the tower, there are breathtaking panoramic views of the Old City, Mt. Scopus, and the Mount of Olives. The museum hosts regular temporary exhibitions of contemporary art and culture as well as special events, performances, and educational activities. In the evening there is a sound and light show entitled The Night Spectacular where Jerusalem’s story is told through projected images on the ancient stones, sound, music, and lights.

Alona Park is about 80km from Zikhron Ya’akov, west of Moshav Amikam, at the southern end of the Carmel Mountains. The park includes natural Mediterranean forest, open lawns, and Mei Kedem (Ancient Water), a unique archaeological site dating back 2,000 years. Here you can explore an underground tunnel that was part of a complex Roman water system. It brought fresh water from the Ein Tzabarin Springs to the port city of Caesarea, over a distance of 23km. Armed with a flashlight, visitors can wade through shallow water in the underground tunnel and learn about this Roman engineering marvel.History of Mei Kedem (Ancient Water System)In c.22BC-10BC BC, King Herod built a grand port city on Israel’s Mediterranean coast, about half-way between Tel-Aviv and Haifa, and named it Caesarea Maritima. This magnificent city, with luxurious palaces, a huge amphitheater, and a man-made harbor needed a reliable water supply for its growing population. Herod's water system was a raised canal that brought water from the Shumi Springs on the southern side of Mount Carmel to Caesarea. Emperor Hadrian arrived in Caesarea in 130AD, and seeing that the water supply was no longer sufficient, he had repairs made and a second aqueduct constructed. This brought water from the Taninim River and comprised a 6km-long tunnel and aqueduct alongside the original aqueduct. For the next 1,200 years, these parallel aqueducts were used to supply water. By the 12th century, the aqueducts were beyond repair, and so the Crusaders built a third canal to replace the original two. There was a fourth water system built during the Byzantine era bringing water from the Maagan Michael Springs, north of Jiser-e-Zarka.The Engineering of Mei KedemHerod’s water system consisted of canals, clay pipes, aqueducts, and a 6km-long tunnel. The engineers had to overcome many obstacles in creating the water system. The various elevations of the terrain presented a problem. Roman engineers studied the local topography and used gravity to channel the flow of water. They began with a 6km-long tunnel dug horizontally into the hillside near the Ein Tzabarin Springs. Every 50m of so, shafts were dug into the ground. Then teams would dig through the solid rock from opposite ends until they met in the middle. Workmen used axes to hack through the rock. The engineers made calculations using measuring rods, ancient spirit levels, and other Roman tools. You can still see the niches in the rock where the Roman workmen placed their candles as they dug through the rock.What to See and Do at Park AlonaYou can have a unique adventure, walking through a 280m-long section of the Mei Kedem tunnel at Park Alona. Steps lead down into the underground tunnel, which is narrow enough for an adult to touch both sides. Visitors walking through the tunnel are surrounded by the thick stone walls and the water can be 40-70cm deep. Although there is dim lighting, it is recommended to bring a flashlight. Wear sturdy shoes and clothing that you don’t mind getting wet. Alongside the water tunnel is a small museum where you can learn about the tunnel’s history from the Romans, to the Byzantine-era.

HaMizgaga Museum is a hidden gem, with a fascinating collection of nautical and regional archaeological finds. The exhibits are housed in a former glass factory in the heart of Kibbutz Nachsholim. The kibbutz is on Israel’s Mediterranean coast, about 20km south of Haifa. Most of the museum exhibits were discovered just a short walk away, at the Tel-Dor archaeological mound and in the seabed just offshore. Today the Nachsholim coast is a sleepy stretch of sandy beaches and rock pools frequented by families, but for thousands of years it was a hub of maritime activity.The Former Glass Factory at Kibbutz NachsholimThe museum is in a two-story stone building that once housed a wine-bottle factory opened by Baron Edmond James de Rothschild in 1891. For a time, the factory was managed by Meir Dizengoff, who would become Tel-Aviv’s first mayor. The local sand was found unsuitable for glassmaking, and the factory faced other challenges that made it unprofitable. It closed just five years after opening and the building was abandoned. Then in 1980, members of the kibbutz began restoring the structure. Nearby at Tel Dor, excavations took place that uncovering a wealth of archaeological treasures. The abandoned bottle factory became a perfect venue to display finds from Tel Dor, archaeological artifacts recovered from the regional waters and local glass art.What to See at the Museum of Archaeology and Glass NachsholimThe museum building is an attraction in itself, and most of the architecture has been restored and preserved. The exhibits include artifacts discovered at the Tel Dor archaeological mound, just 500m from the museum. Over the course of 3,000 years, Tel Dor was settled by Canaanites, Israelites, Phoenicians, Assyrians, Persians, Greeks and Romans. See the treasures from these diverse cultures that used this stretch of coast as a gateway to the Middle East. Also on display are archaeological remnants from ancient shipwrecks offshore. Thousands of years ago, this stretch of coast had busy shipping routes, with the Roman port of Caesarea just a few kilometers south. The nearby coast has seen many vessels crashed and torn apart, leaving treasures on the rocky seabed. Besides archaeological artifacts, the museum displays local glass artwork. During school vacations and national holidays, the museum provides family activities and glass-blowing demonstrations. Next to the museum is an ancient burial cave that has recently opened to the public.

Turkish Hammam, AcreVisitors to Acre’s Old City can tour the incredible Turkish bathhouse, Pasha’s Hammam. The 18th-century bathhouse was once an important part of city life. The hammam was where men met, discussed business, and talked about the issues of the day. Today the traditional bathhouse is fully restored to its former glory, complete with a domed roof and marble floors. It no longer offers steam baths and massages but has been turned into an experiential museum. Visitors are swept back in time with the help of music, an entertaining audio guide, and sculptured characters that are brought to life with special lighting.History of the Acre Turkish HammamThe Ottoman governor of Acre, Ahmad Pasha al-Jazzar built the bathhouse in 1781. Hama al-Jadid (New Hammam) came to be known as Hammam al-Basha (the Pasha’s Hammam) in honor of Ahmad Pasha al-Jazzar. The Ottoman governor may even have had a hand in designing the bathhouse. Its construction was part of Acre’s transformation from a small fishing village to a busy port city. Hammam al-Basha was built on the remains of an earlier bathhouse and was the largest Hammam in the country. The hammam was one of two Acre bathhouses where local men gathered regularly to meet and relax. In 1918 the Ottomans were forced out of Palestine by the British, but the bathhouse continued to function until 1947.During the British Mandate of Palestine, the Acre citadel was used as a prison for members of the Jewish underground. In a 1947 prison break, the Jewish resistance blew up the southern wall of the citadel, which was right above the bathhouse. This caused so much damage to the bathhouse that it had to close. It was only in 1954 that the bathhouse became a municipal folklore museum. In the 1990s, the municipality made new plans and began restoring the bathhouse to replicate the bathing experience in Ottoman Acre.Features of the Acre HammamThe hammam has several sections, starting with the entrance courtyard and summer dressing room where visitors would change their clothes into bathing robes and sandals. Then they would go to one of the four middle rooms for various treatments such as massages and skin treatments. Next is the hot room, or steam room, at the heart of the hammam. Here visitors could use a heated pool and steam bath. They could also have treatments here, such as scrubbing, soaping, and massages. There are small cubical rooms around the steam room where visitors could have private treatments.Acre Bathhouse–An Experiential MuseumAt the Acre Bathhouse, you can experience what it would have been like as a functioning bathhouse over 200 years ago. Visitors get an audio guide (available in 8 languages) to listen to as they walk through the hammam. The soundtrack features five generations of fictitious bath attendants telling their stories about the hammam. Visitors can listen to the characters talking about the latest gossip in the hammam and the history of Acre during the Ottoman era. The stories on the audio guide include historical facts so you learn about Ottoman Acre while being entertained. There are static sculptured characters in each room of the hammam, each illustrating a typical activity that took place in the bathhouse. Together with the soundtrack and sculptured figures, there is atmospheric music and lighting. As the audio guide leads you through each section of the hammam, you can virtually experience what it would have been like all those years ago.

On Old Acre’s busy market street is a tiny 18th-century synagogue, named after Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzatto (Lotsato). The scholarly Rabbi spent three years of his life in Acre, where he would pray and lead the congregation at this small place of worship. The Ramchal’s Synagogue (also called Ohel Haim) has some fascinating features and is an important part of Acre’s Jewish heritage.Who was Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzatto?RaMCHaL is a Hebrew acronym for Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzatto, a well-known 18th-century Italian Kabbalist, philosopher, writer, and poet. The Ramchal was born in Venice in 1707, where he had a Jewish and secular education. From a young age, he was interested in mysticism, religious lore, art and science. He was a brilliant scholar, but he became a controversial figure after claiming to have had a visitation from an angel. The Rabbi began teaching “Divine Lessons” he had received from the angel. Local Rabbi’s viewed him as a dangerous heretic and eventually he was forced to leave Italy. The Ramchal lived in Amsterdam from 1735 to 1743, where he continued to be a prolific and controversial writer. He wrote plays, poetry, religious commentaries, and books on Jewish law and ethics. The Ramchal wrote 71 books including his best-known works, Messilat Yesharim (The Path of Just) and Derekh Hashem (The Way of God). In 1743 he traveled to the Holy Land and settled in Acre. Three years after arriving in Acre the Rabbi and his family died of the plague. The synagogue where he attended services, was named in his honor – Ohel Chaim.Another tradition holds that the synagogue was named after Chaim Farchi. Farchi was the synagogue’s benefactor, advisor to the Turkish Sultan, and worked with the Turks to prevent Napoleon’s invasion of Acre in 1799. Close to the synagogue is Chaim Parchi’s Home, where you can learn more about this influential Jew from Damascus.History of the Acre Ramchal SynagogueDuring the 16th to 18th century, there were two synagogues in Acre, the smaller Achav Synagogue, and the larger, more elegant Ramchal Synagogue. In 1758 the Bedouin ruler Zahir el-Omar destroyed the larger synagogue and had the el-Mualek Mosque built in its place. As compensation, Zahir el-Omar gave the Jews a smaller building along the market street. The Rabbi would have attended services in the original Ramchal Synagogue named in his honor, but it is the newer small synagogue that now bears his name. In recent years the Ramchal Synagogue has been renovated and restored.Architectural Features of the Ramchal Synagogue in Acre’s Old CityThe synagogue has a simple interior with stone ceiling arches that frame the space. The most interesting feature of this synagogue is a deep pit in the floor. According to tradition, Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzatto would go down into this hole to read the day’s Torah portion. The Rabbi was inspired by the Torah verse “Out of the depths have I called Thee, O Lord.” Another unusual feature of the Ramchal Synagogue is that it does not have a women’s section. Synagogues usually have a designated area, separate from the men’s area, where women can pray. At the Ramchal Synagogue, women would stand on the street and listen to the services through a window. Hanging on the synagogue wall is an old piece of parchment paper with three columns of text, taken from a Torah scroll written by the Ramchal. The small synagogue is not the most beautiful synagogue you will ever see, but it holds a rich history and deep significance for Acre’s Jewish heritage.

As you approach the Old City of Acre, the first thing you see is the Al-Jazzar Mosque’s slender green and white minaret rising above the city’s stone walls. This magnificent structure is Israel’s largest mosque outside of Jerusalem. The Acre mosque is also known as the White Mosque, the Great Mosque of Lights, and the Pasha’s Mosque after the Ottoman governor Ahmed Pasha al-Jazzar, who was responsible for the construction.Building the Al-Jazzar MosqueConstruction of the mosque began in 1781AD and they completed it within the year. The Turks built on the ruins of a Crusader church and kept the church’s large barrel-vaulted cisterns that lie beneath the mosque. Al-Jazzar took an active role in designing the mosque, although he had no architectural training. The mosque complex originally included a place for Islamic studies and accommodation for the students; a public library and an Islamic court. Al-Jazzar wanted the mosque to be much more than a place of worship.Who was Al-Jazzar?Al-Jazzar was born in Ottoman-ruled Bosnia sometime between 1720 and 1730. He moved to Constantinople (Istanbul) where he worked for a while before traveling to Egypt. He began his military career and made a rapid rise in the Mamluk ranks. As an important military leader, he was sent to defend Lebanon. He helped defeat the Bedouin ruler Zahir al-Umar al-Zaydani and was made governor of Sidon, an area from Egypt to Lebanon. Al-Jazzar made Acre his capital and transformed the former Crusader city with many new buildings, including the grand mosque. He was a ruthless and often cruel leader, earning the name al-Jazzar–the butcher. Despite his excessive cruelty, he made lasting improvements to Acre and even successfully defended the city against Napoleon in 1799. Al-Jazzar defeated his enemies one by one, consolidating his power and gaining prestige throughout the Ottoman Empire. The powerful leader died from malaria in 1804 and is buried along with his adoptive son and successor, Suleiman Pasha, in the mosque courtyard.What to See at the Al-Jazzar MosqueAl-Jazzar Mosque took its inspiration from the mosques of Constantinople, specifically the Hagia Sofia. The design is predominantly Ottoman in style but includes elements of Byzantine and Persian architecture. Al-Jazzar mosque looks like something out of Aladdin! Stairs lead up to a walled courtyard where there are Roman columns “borrowed” from Caesarea, and palm trees surround the mosque building. Outside the courtyard entrance is an Ottoman Rococo-style kiosk (sabil) with a green dome. The kiosk would dispense water to residents. The mosque building has green domes and a green-capped minaret set against white walls with colorful inlaid marble decoration around the entrance. Inside the mosque is just as impressive with a high ceiling, marble minbar, and mihrab. Delicate Arabic calligraphy adorns blue and green tiles on the walls. A glass cabinet holds the Sha’r an-Nabi (lock of hair) which is said to be from the beard of the Prophet Muhammad.

The Dormition Abbey (or Basilica of the Assumption) is one of Jerusalem’s most impressive churches. It stands on Mount Zion, the highest point in ancient Jerusalem. The Dormition Abbey is built on the site where Mary, mother of Jesus, fell into an eternal sleep and was assumed into heaven, body, and soul. Two places claim to be the site where Mary died–Ephesus, in present-day Turkey, and Mount Zion in Jerusalem, where the Dormition Church now stands. The massive Benedictine abbey has a distinct shape and unique architectural elements, unlike any other Jerusalem church.History of the Dormition Abbey, JerusalemIn the 5th century, the Hagia Sion Cathedral stood on the site where the Dormition Abbey now stands, but it was destroyed in the Persian invasion of 614AD. In the 12th century, a monastic order built the Sant Maria in Monte Sion Church on the remains of the Byzantine church. The Crusader church was destroyed in the 13th century and the land was unused for about 500 years.In 1898 the German Emperor William II visited the Holy Land and bought the land from the ruling Ottoman sultan for 120,000 German Goldmark. The Emperor gave the land to the German Association for the Holy Land to build an imposing, fortress-like church that would reinforce Germany’s place in the Holy Land. The Dormition Abbey was completed in 1910. The abbey was damaged during the Israeli War of Independence in 1948 and again in the 1967 Six-Day War.The Unique Features of the Dormition AbbeyThe huge Roman Catholic Benedictine abbey measures 34-meters high and has two levels. There is a crypt and Marian shrine on the lower level and a high altar and monastic choir on the upper level. The upper level has large windows and walls covered with mosaics depicting scenes from Christian and Benedictine history. The most impressive mosaic is above the main altar and shows Mary with baby Jesus. There is also a large circular floor mosaic in the upper church, dating back to 1932. The lower level has a central rotunda where a life-size wood and ivory statue of Mary lies sleeping on a simple bier. Mosaics featuring six Old Testament women adorn the dome above Mary. The fortress-like church has a round central building with four round towers at each “corner” and a free-standing bell tower. Topping the church is a cone-shaped lead-covered dome, unlike other churches of Jerusalem that have a round dome or spire. The architect blended the neo-Romanesque style of European churches with the white and red stones used in Mameluke architecture. The church has two organs that are used in services and liturgical music concerts. If you get the opportunity, join the Benedictine monks for a prayer service where Gregorian chants accompany the chilling organ music that resonates in this historic stone church.

Me’a She’arim Ultra-Orthodox NeighborhoodIsrael is a melting pot of cultures, religions, and sects, including the ultra-orthodox Jews (Haredi) of the Me’a She’arim neighborhood. This unique community lives according to traditional Jewish laws as their ancestors did in Eastern European villages a hundred years ago. Me’a She’arim (literally a hundred gates, contextually “hundredfold”) gets its name from a Biblical passage. The narrow streets of Me’a She’arim are fascinating, but the most interesting thing about the neighborhood is undoubtedly the people.History of Me’a She’arimIn 1874, a group of like-minded Hasidim (a sub-group within the Haredi community) pooled their resources to buy land outside the Old City walls. They asked architect Conrad Schick to design a closed neighborhood. He planned attached courtyard homes and a wall that encloses the community. There were only two entrances to the neighborhood and these were locked at night. The Haredim wanted a sense of security and a place to live according to their beliefs, undisturbed by the outside world. As Rabbinical leaders settled here, their followers joined them. Time has stood still in Me’a She’arim. It has been an exclusively ultra-orthodox neighborhood for almost 150 years.Who are the Haredim?The Haredim community came about in the 1700s-1800s when emancipation and assimilation into the gentile world posed a threat to traditional Jewish life in Europe. The Hasidic spiritual revival movement of the 18th century sought to live according to strict religious laws, taken from the Bible and sacred writings. These laws go into minute detail covering every aspect of life from how to dress, and what to eat, to how to behave, and what to study. There are many groups of Haredi Jews, each loyal to a Rabbi that acts as a spiritual leader. Men often study Torah full-time while the women work and provide the household income. The ultra-Orthodox prefer to associate with members of their community and try to avoid being influenced by the outside world. They avoid the Internet and secular media. Hasidic Jews prefer to speak Yiddish, as they believe Hebrew should only be used for religious purposes.Interesting Things to See in Me’a She’arimThe streets of Me’a She’arim have traditional bakeries; Judaica stores; clothing stores selling only modest items; book stores selling only religious books and food stores where all products are strictly kosher. There are many synagogues, some no bigger than a small room, and street charity boxes for the needy. One of the most distinctive features of the Me’a She’arim neighborhood is the way residents dress. The different Haredi traditions each have a distinct style of clothing. But the standard mode of dress for Haredi men is a black suit and a white shirt, with a head covering, (a black Fedora, Homburg hat, Shtreimel, or skullcap). Haredi women wear dark loose-fitting dresses or skirts, with long sleeves and high necklines, as well as stockings in all weather. Married women wear either a wig or head covering, and sometimes even both. On the walls of Me’a She’arim are signs asking visitors to dress modestly when passing through-closed blouse, with long sleeves, long skirt, no trousers, and no tight-fitting clothes. In Me’a She’arim there is no driving, no smoking, no use of mobile phones, and no use of electricity on Shabbat and religious holidays.Visiting Me’a She’arimVisits to Me’a She’arim must be in small groups to avoid disrupting the unique way of life. The residents are not keen on non-members of their close-knit community entering their enclave. When visiting, it is important to dress modestly, males and females should not touch in public, and you should refrain from using your phone. That said, a visit to Me’a She’arim should not be missed and offers a glimpse into the world of ultra-orthodox Jewish life.

Israel has some incredible museums; among them is the Tel Aviv Museum of Art. The museum's focus is on modern and contemporary art and holds Old Masters (16th-19th centuries). In addition, the Tel Aviv Museum of Art has one of the world’s largest Israeli art collections. The museum is spread through three venues – the Helena Rubinstein Pavilion; the Main Building and the adjacent Herta and Paul Amir Building.The newest wing of the museum was opened in 2011 alongside of the museum’s main building. It houses the Israeli Architecture Archives and exhibitions of photography and visual arts. The building covers 5.6km² spread over five floors. The museum building was the creation of Preston Scott Cohen.In addition, there is a youth wing; a Sculpture Garden, and Art Education Center. The museum holds collections of classic and contemporary art with a focus on Israeli art. If you are looking for things to do in Tel Aviv, then this Tel Aviv museum offers unbeatable value for money. The entrance is reasonable and all visitors under 18 years old enter for free.Herta and Paul Amir BuildingThe Herta and Paul Amir Building has become a modern landmark in the city. The dramatic architecture includes 2 floors above ground and 3 below ground all spiraling around a central atrium. Each gallery is built on different axes stacked one above the other. The galleries overlook the 26-meter high atrium through long windows in angular walls. Natural light floods in through the atrium skylight. The building has a triangular shape with rectangular galleries. The exterior has tessellated concrete walls with multiple angles and windows matching the rectangular and triangular panels.Tel Aviv Museum of Art holds Diverse Art Genres and MediumThe museum’s art collection has pieces representing many of the dominant modern art movements by leading artists. See work from French art movements; Impressionism; Post-Impressionism; German Expressionism; Futurism; Fauvism; Russian Constructivism and Surrealism movements. In addition, there are works by the greatest artists of the early 20th century. In addition to paintings, you can see sculptures, prints, drawings, architecture, photography, installations, and visual arts.Tel Aviv Museum of Art displays works by Leading ArtistsAmong the prominent artists included in the museum collection, there are the pieces by Picasso; Chaim Soutine; Joan Miro, and Roy Lichtenstein who’s created a mural specifically for the museum entrance. The museum holds works by Friedericke Maria Beer; Gustav Klimt and Kandinsky. You can see works by Pollock, Andre Masson, Richard Pousette-Dart; Yves Tanguy, and Roberto Matta. The museum also holds work by van Gogh, Marc Chagall, Pissarro, Reuven Rubin, and Anselm Kiefer. Among the outstanding Israeli works, there are pieces by Nahum Gutman; Itzhak Danziger; Aviva Uri; Moshe Gershuni and Michal Na’aman.Visit the Tel Aviv Museum of Art for its Impressive GalleriesIn 2011 the Amir Building was added adjacent to the main museum building. The building holds an Israeli Architectural Archive and galleries focused on visual arts and photography. The innovative museum building was designed by leading architect Preston Scott Cohen and features 1718 m² of gallery space on five floors.Permanent and Temporary ExhibitsIn addition to the permanent collection on display, the museum features temporary exhibits by well-known artists and group shows. It is also a popular venue for special events like screenings, shows, and festivals.Practical Information:Opening Hours: Mon, Wed, Sat 10 am-6 pm; Tues, Thurs 10 am-9 pm; Fri 10 am-2 pm and Sunday the museum is closed. Information: 03 6077020.Admission: Adults 50ILS; Tel Aviv residents 40ILS; students 40ILS; children under 18yrs free; seniors 25ILS. Children under 13 years must be accompanied by an adult and one adult can be responsible for up to three children.

The Israeli Supreme Court Building is one of the landmarks worth seeing in Jerusalem’s new city. It stands in Jerusalem’s Givat Ram governmental precinct, near to the Knesset (Israeli parliament building). For forty-four years the Supreme Court was in Jerusalem’s Russian Compound. Construction of the new Supreme Court building began in the 1980s and was funded by the Jewish philanthropist, Dorothy de Rothschild. Architects Ada Karmi-Melamede and Ram Karmi designed the courthouse, which is packed with symbolism and architectural themes. The new Supreme Court building opened in 1992. It houses the highest judicial authority in Israel. Judgments made by the Supreme Court are binding on all lower courts and all people and institutions in the country. There are 15 judges and a panel of three Justices usually sit for each case. The Supreme Court acts as a constitutional court and a court of appeals.Israeli Supreme Court BuildingThe Supreme Court building is loved by some and hated by others! The courthouse has three main buildings: a rectangular administrative wing where the judges’ chambers surround a cloistered courtyard; a building with five courtrooms, each extending out of the main hall and a square library building with a round courtyard and pyramid-shaped antechamber or “gatehouse.” The blend of architectural styles gives a nod to several periods in Jerusalem’s history. For example, the copper-clad pyramid roof of the entrance was inspired by the pyramid-shaped roof of the Tomb of Zechariah in the Kidron Valley. Visitors entering the court pass a wall of unhewn stone reminiscent of the buildings of ancient Jerusalem. A curved panoramic window lets in natural light and offers views of the city, including one of the oldest neighborhoods, Nachla’ot. The many windows and glass walls let in natural light, but also symbolize enlightenment and transparency. The Supreme Court building has a mix of contrasts–light and shade, narrow and wide, round and square, open spaces and closed.Supreme Court MuseumThe Supreme Court Museum presents the history of the Israeli judicial system. It covers the judiciary system in Israel under Ottoman rule, the British Mandate, and the State of Israel. The museum looks at the legal system and changing society during these historic periods. The museum also covers precedent-setting judgments since the establishment of the State of Israel. There are sections on human rights judgments, judicial disputes, and the law system. A video presentation explains the inner workings of the Israeli justice system. Of special interest is the reference to the unique character of the State of Israel as both a Jewish state and a democracy.

The Russian Ascension Church is part of the Convent of the Ascension, on the highest point of the Mount of Olives. The complex covers 54,000m² and is surrounded by a 1.5-meter-long wall. Inside the complex are a pilgrims’ hostel, a chapel, a freestanding bell tower, an olive grove, and well-kept gardens. Russian Orthodox nuns from around the world run the convent. They are known for their singing, icon painting, and embroidery. According to Orthodox tradition, this is where Jesus ascended to heaven forty days after his resurrection (Acts 1:9-11). In 1870, Archimandrite Antonine Kapustin bought land on the Mount of Olives and established the Russian compound where the church stands. This was in part an effort to expand the Russian presence in the Holy Land.Where Did Jesus Ascend to Heaven?The Bible identifies the Mount of Olives as the site of Christ’s ascension. But there are several churches on the mount that are dedicated to this Biblical event. The Russian Orthodox Ascension Church stands on the southern peak of the Mount of Olives. Nearby is the Dome of the Ascension. Most Christians believe that Jesus ascended to heaven from where the 4th-century Dome of Ascension stands. Today, the small eight-sided structure is within a walled compound that includes a mosque. On the northern peak of the Mount of Olives is the Greek Orthodox Viri Galilaei Church. It is named after the “men of Galilee” (Acts 1:11) who were addressed by two angels after Christ’s ascension. A fourth ascension church is part of the Augusta Victoria church-hospital complex where Palestinians from the West Bank and Gaza Strip receive medical care.The Fascinating Features of the Russian Ascension ChurchThe standout feature of the Russian Ascension Church is its 64-meter (about 200ft) high square bell tower that symbolizes Christ’s ascension. It was built for pilgrims to see the Jordan River from the tower belfry. The freestanding tower holds an eight-ton bell brought from Russia. It was the first church bell to ring in Ottoman Jerusalem. In the church, there are flagstones from an earlier Byzantine church that once stood here. Stains on the ancient flagstones may be the blood of nuns slaughter during the Persian invasion of 614. The beautiful church murals were painted by the convent nuns. On the outside wall of the church is a stone where according to Orthodox tradition Mary stood as she watched Christ’s ascension.A small cemetery lies within the convent complex, and there are several interesting gravestones. The founder of the Russian complex, Antonin Kapustin is buried to the left of the church entrance. In 1909, one of the convent’s first leaders, Father Parthenius, was found stabbed to death in his room. He is buried behind the church. His murder was never solved and the murderer was never found.The Chapel of John the BaptistAccording to tradition, a Christian woman named Joanna saw Herod Antipas’ wife disposing of St. John’s head. Joanna retrieved the head and secretly buried it in a clay jar on the Mount of Olives. In the 4th-century St. John appeared to two Syrian monks and told them where the head was buried. Helena, the mother of the Christian Emperor Constantine, ordered the construction of a chapel where the head was found. Today the Chapel of St. John the Baptist stands behind the Russian church. The chapel incorporates a mosaic floor from a 5th-century Armenian chapel that once stood here. There is a hole in the mosaic floor where the head of John the Baptist is said to have been found.

The Mount of Olives rises across the Kidron Valley from Jerusalem’s Old City. On the mountain slopes is the most sacred and largest Jewish cemetery in the world. It has been in use since King David made Jerusalem his capital 3,000 years ago. The cemetery holds about 150,000 graves, but there may even be more. Prominent Biblical figures, great statesmen, creators, and religious leaders are buried on this sacred ground. Many Jews want to be buried in Jerusalem, but the Mount of Olives holds even more significance as a Jewish burial site.What Makes the Mount of Olives Jewish Cemetery so Special?Jewish writings (midrash) state that the resurrection of the dead will start on the Mount of Olives when the Messiah arrives. The risen dead will then cross Kidron Valley to Temple Mount. Today Temple Mount is home to the Dome of the Rock. But Solomon’s Temple stood on Temple Mount until 586BC, and the Second Temple stood there until 70AD. According to Jewish tradition, a third Temple will occupy Temple Mount when the Messiah comes. The bodies on the Mount of Olives are buried with their feet facing Temple Mount so they can simply rise and walk straight ahead to the Temple.There may have been more practical reasons for the site of the cemetery. People of ancient Jerusalem would have buried their dead to the east. This would prevent west-blowing winds from bringing the smell of death into the city. The topography of the mount meant that a graveyard was more practical than trying to build or cultivate the land, and the relatively soft rock made it easy to dig graves. The location, not too far from the city, offered a peaceful resting place.Interesting Graves in the Jewish Cemetery on the Mount of OlivesThe Christian prophet Zechariah is buried in the Mount of Olives cemetery. Zechariah mentioned the Mount of Olives as the place where the resurrection of the dead would begin. Other graves include one of King David’s sons, 15th-century rabbis, and the former Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin (1913-1992). The cemetery holds the graves of Eliezer Ben-Yehuda (1858-1922), father of modern Hebrew, and Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook (1865-1935), Zionist and Chief Rabbi of Palestine under the British Mandate. Buried here is Judah HeHasid (1660-1700), who led a large group of Jewish immigrants to the Holy Land in the 17th-century. The grave of famed Hebrew fiction author and Nobel Prize laureate, S.Y. Agnon (1887-1970) is in the Mount of Olives cemetery.More recent Mount of Olives graves belong to British Jewish businessman Robert Maxwell (1923-1991) and American businessman Sheldon Adelson (1933-2021). You can even find Christian royalty buried on the Mount of Olives. 12th-century Danish queen, Boedil Thurgotsdatter and Princess Alice of Battenberg (1885-1869), the mother of the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Philip, are both buried here. Abraham Zelmanowitz (1945-2001), an American victim of the 9/11 tragedy, is buried on the Mount of Olives, as well as several Israeli terror victims.The Mount of Olives Cemetery TodayThe Mount of Olives Jewish Cemetery is still in use today. It costs an average of $30,000 or more to be first in line for resurrection. Space is rapidly running out, and soon there will be no room for new graves on the Mount of Olives. But you can still stroll among the graves, old and new, as you consider the incredible history “buried” here.

The people of Israel have been making wine for thousands of years. In the Bible, there are many references to wine and vineyards. Among the rolling hills, and green fields of the Upper Galilee is a small village called Kfar Tabor. This is where the Tabor Winery was born. Today, they continue the tradition of winemaking in the Holy Land, producing a wide selection of award-winning kosher wines. The winery’s original vineyards are at the foot of Mount Tabor, but they source grapes from vineyards in Israel’s top wine-growing regions. They produce an extensive range of wines from various grapes grown in different soils and a variety of climates. The best wine-making regions in Israel are the Golan Heights, Galilee, Judean foothills, and the central mountains. Winemakers at Tabor Winery are driven by their passion, love of the land, and innovation. This internationally recognized winery still has the heart of a family business.The Tabor Winery StoryThe Tabor story goes back over a hundred years to when philanthropist Baron Rothschild invested in the future of Israel as the Jewish nation. He supported Jews settling in the Holy Land and financed many of their efforts, including the Carmel Winery in Zikhron Yaakov. In 1901 Rothschild supported the establishment of a small town named Mes’ha, after a neighboring Arab village. Then in 1903, Zionist Menachem Ussishkin encouraged the village to take a Hebrew name. And so, Tabor Village (Kfar Tavor) was born in the shadow of Mount Tabor. The village has always had a connection to grape cultivation. But it never really got off the ground in a big way until 1999, when the Tabor Winery was established.Four experienced wine-growing families pooled their resources to create the new winery. At first Tabor Winery was a boutique winery, but they have grown to gain international recognition. In the first year, Tabor Winery produced approximately 30,000 bottles. Today it can produce about 2 million bottles a year. As the winery has grown, so has the variety of wines they produce. In 2005, IBBL bought Tabor Winery, giving them wider distribution and support. They continue to produce quality wines including Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Petit Syrah, Petit Verdot, Chardonnay, Viognier, Gewurztraminer, White Riesling, Merlot, Mourvèdre, Tempranillo, Tanat, Cabernet Franc, Roussanne, Barbera, Sauvignon Blanc, and French Colombard. Tabor wines are available in the UK, Europe, USA, and Japan.Tabor Winery’s Dedication to ExcellenceTabor Winery is committed to crafting fine wines while caring for the land and nature. The Tabor vineyards have kept to ecological standards since 2012. They have implemented various actions to protect the environment and restore nature. Tabor Winery’s ecological efforts are overseen by the Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel.Kosher wine is notoriously expensive. Producing it requires strict standards and certification. Tabor Winery offers world-class wine, that is kosher and affordable. Tabor produces what is known as QPR wine, or Quality-to-Price-Ratio. This means the wine is of high quality, but the price is low. Their Earth series, in particular, has been awarded for its excellent Quality-to-Price-Ratio. Tabor Winery continues to push the boundaries of winemaking and to maintain the passion of the original boutique winery that grew up in the shadow of Mount Tabor. The Tabor Winery Visitor Center is set in an idyllic location. Here you can sample wines from the Tabor Winery’s exclusive collection. Professionals are on hand to tell you interesting facts about winemaking in Israel and share entertaining stories of wine lore.