The Red Sea Jazz Festival is an annual event held in the gorgeous beach resort city of Eilat, Israel on the edge of the Red Sea. Since its initiation the festival has grown in size and importance. The Red Sea Jazz Festival plays an important role in fostering Israeli jazz talent and has also earned itself a reputation in the international jazz scene. The event takes place over four days in August at the music-inspired Prima Music Hotel and other Eilat venues.jazz festival The Red Sea Jazz Festival hosts a special tribute to Israeli jazz with lots of performances spanning the full spectrum of the Israeli jazz scene, showcasing the multicultural tapestry of Israeli jazz. The festival includes Israel’s greatest jazz performers who have established careers both in Israel and internationally. At the festival, there are both veteran pioneer artists responsible for establishing the jazz culture in Israel and new up-and-coming Israeli artists. The festival follows a special format to salute the legendary Israeli jazz artists with original productions showing the development of jazz through the generations. In addition, usually, there are several big-name international acts including such artists as The Chick Corea Trio, Avi Lebovich and The Orchestra; Aharale Kaminsky; Albert Piamenta; Guy King; TATRAN; Quartet to Afrika; Shlomi Shaban; Shalom Hanoch and Maya Belsitzman among others.Few festivals manage to continue for 30 years and this is a testament to the strong legacy and unique character of the event. In addition to the live performances, the festival offers other special events like the Red Sea Jazz Festival Young Jazz Program. Young musicians will be able to join a workshop run by some of the festival performing artists. The festival hosts the Israeli Jazz Convention, discussion panels, lectures, master classes, workshops for the public, and in the mornings special jazz performances geared towards children aged 5-10 years. One of the traditions of the Red Sea Jazz Festival is the Jam Session held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel poolside. The jam session starts at 11 pm and the jamming continues into the night. Throughout the festival, there are usually sunset jazz cocktail events on Mosh’s Beach near the Eilat Port. Entrance is regularly free and the cocktails will be accompanied by a selection of young bands.Queen of Sheba hotel EilatEilat is the ultimate beach resort; during the festival, visitors will be able to enjoy the incredible Red Sea where there are natural coral reefs, schools of tropical fish, and even dolphins. There are water sports for the whole family, cruise excursions, dreamy beaches, and amazing malls. Eilat is a duty-free port city so you can shop-til-you-drop. Be sure to visit the Ice Mall which has an ice rink in the center. Visitors can also take excursions into the surrounding desert to places like Park Timna, the Dead Sea, and Masada. From Eilat, there are convenient day trips to Petra, Jordan, one of the seven wonders of the world. Eilat has wonderful restaurants, many specializing in seafood and you will find that Eilat hotels rival the best beach resort hotels worldwide. Visitors can enjoy the Red Sea Jazz Festival and a fantastic holiday.Practical Information:When: usually in August. Performances and events take place throughout the day from 10 are to 1 am.Where: At select Eilat venues including the Crowne Plaza Hotel; Jazz Cinema; Port arena; Red Note and the Sea Club.

Israel has many hike trails which go through streams offering some relief from the heat as you hike. These water hike trails are usually free and sign posted so that you can follow the colored lines painted on rocks to show you the route. For these hike trails wear good walking shoes or sandals that you don’t mind getting wet and a swimming costume or clothes to change after completion of the hike. You’ll have a good time following the many streams which criss-cross Israel, keeping cool and enjoying the gorgeous countryside. These wet hike routes are greatattractions for families with kids.Majrase National Park, Israel.Photo credit: © Doron Nissim. Published with permission of the Israel Nature and Parks AuthorityEin MaboaEin Maboa or En Fawwar spring runs through the Wadi Kelt (Prat River) riverbed carrying water from the Judean Hills near Jerusalem to the Jordan River. This is a very easy hike, in fact, there is hardly any hiking involved at all; rather the fun is in swimming in the spring pool. Each day an underground karstic cave fills up with subterranean water and only when the cave is full does it empty into a pool where the water remains for about 20 minutes before continuing on its journey.From the car park walk about 300 meters to an old British Mandate-era pumping station. Water flows out of the spring at this point into a pool which would have been part of the pumping station. After about 20 minutes the pool empties as the spring water continues on its course. In this area, you can see the remains of ancient mosaics on the ground. A few meters downstream you can see the remains of an ancient aqueduct.Prat River (Wadi Kelt). Photo byChristian BurrionUnsplashZaki TrailThis water trail follows the last part of the Meshushim Stream which flows from the Yehudiya Nature Reserve into the Sea of Galilee. The walk takes about 3 hours and much of the trail is in the water. This is not a loop trail so if arriving in one car you will have to make the walk back to your starting point after completing the route. The river is quite wide and about knee-deep with gorgeous green trees and vegetation on both sides protecting hikers from the sun. At some points along the trail there is deeper water so bring water wings if you are with children who can’t swim. If the trail is too long for you it is possible to exit the water trail at several points and follow the road back to the parking area. The Majrase is another water trail running parallel to the Zaki Trail.Yehudiah Waterfall, Israel.Photo credit:© ShutterstockNahal Amudׂׂׂ(Amud Stream)This is a challenging trail in northern Israel when taken from the Sea of Galilee to the Mediterranean but you can also do a small section in a couple of hours. The most popular section is Nahal Amud not far from Safed. The trail goes alongside the stream with several points for jumping in along the way. This is a perennial stream that runs through a valley from Safed and empties in the Sea of Galilee but there are several points of entry including Meron where there is a parking lot and the start of a circular 4km route.Nahal Kziv (Kziv River)Together with the Monfort Trail, this is one of the most beautiful trails to follow in Israel. Meandering through the green Galilee following a perennial stream and passing by a Crusader Fortress, mountains, and a spring tunnel. There is an easy 6km circular route that requires some climbing towards the end but is suitable for all ages. Amud Stream National Park.Photo credit: © Afiw Bkreia. Published with permission of the Israel Nature and Parks AuthorityThere are other trails here that are not circular. You can enter the ancient spring tunnel (Ein Tamir) if you want but be sure to bring a flashlight. The Spring Tunnel ends in a dead-end so you have to double back to get out. This is a wonderful place to see wildflowers especially in spring (April-June).Nahal HaShofet (Shofet River)This water hike takes you through a landscape of HaZorea Forest and the greenery of the Ramat Menashe Biosphere Reserve in the Mount Carmel area. It is an easy hike suitable for the whole family and can be completed in 1-2 hours. Part of this hiking trail is fully disabled-accessible. The water flows in this stream year-round starting near Kibbutz Ein HaShofet, joining the Kishon Stream southeast of Kibbutz HaZorea. There are several routes you can take but the most popular one is a circular route.Mount Carmel, Israel. Photo credit: ©Manu Grinspan. Published with permission of the Israel Nature and Parks Authority

For four days in August the Train Theatre presents puppet shows and performances from Israel and around the world. The performances range from modern to traditional puppet theatre and from internationally acclaimed puppet troupes to relatively unknown performers. The aim of the festival is to introduce the public to the many facets of puppetry and show the artistic complexity, communicative power and sophisticated aspects of puppetry for all ages and tastes. Performances take place both at indoor venues across Jerusalem and in the theatre courtyard so that many of the events are free. The festival promotes multi-cultural interaction and a chance to learn about the world of puppetry and have some fun at the same time. The event is geared towards adults and children alike, in fact there are even puppet shows for adults only. The festival is a major platform for up-and-coming puppet artists and the performances are unique, professional and of exceptional quality.In addition to the puppet performances there are puptrpetry workshops and a chance to meet the artists. Performances take place throughout the day from 10am to 11pm and are listed according to the ideal age of the audience. There are shows suited for 2-4 year olds, 4-9 year olds, 3-9 year olds, 3-8 year olds, 3-7 year olds, 5-12 year olds, over 8s, all ages and for adults only. Among the international performers at the festival this year there are artists from Germany, France, Switzerland, Spain and China represented by master puppeteer Yeung Fai.Special Festival Eventsfish puppetZoooo-There is no Animal like It – This event has been specially created for the festival; it will take place in the Jerusalem Liberty Bell Park. At this multidisciplinary event visitors can meet all kinds of “animals” created by master puppeteers. See puppet monkeys, giraffes, tigers and go on a safari. There will be live musical performances and activities for the whole family a the park becomes a zoo of puppets.a puppet showStory time – There will be story time for kids using puppets to act out the stories.Coffee with Puppets – Visitors are invited to enjoy a cup of coffee with the puppets while joining in the puppet technique workshop. There will also be puppet making and mask making workshops.Sing-along – There will be a public sing-along of well known songs using puppets.Animal Band – See a musical performance where the performers are puppet animals.Every evening at 10pm there will be musical performances, cabarets and parties for adults only in the courtyard Khan.Practical Details:Where: Train Theatre, Khan Theatre, Gerard Behar Center, The First Station and Beit Shmuel, JerusalemWhen: 15-18 August 2016Admission: 10ILS-100ILS depending on the performance.Contact: For more information call 02 5618514 or see the Train Theatre website.

The Osho festival has been taking place since 2008; it is a celebration of life and spirituality. Firstly, for those who are not sure, Osho is the name given to an Indian guru, professor of philosophy and spiritual leader called Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh (1931-1990). Osho was against organized religion; promoted meditation to music, the importance of humor, creativity and advocated an open attitude towards sex. The movement can loosely be described as one branch of Western New Age thought. The Osho Festival celebrates the teachings of Osho on the green Campus of Givat Haviva, 45 minutes north of Tel Aviv. Giv’at Haviva is a center dedicated to building a socially cohesive society. It is the largest Osho festival in the world.The festival is a moving and spiritual experience for many and influences many lives. The festival takes place over the course of three days during which the campus becomes a small village and vision of a utopic life. Over the course of the three days there are spiritual workshops, a conference of awareness, creative workshops, parties, dancing, relaxation and freedom. There is a large swimming pool, expansive lawns, quiet places to meditate, camping areas, sleeping rooms, kid’s activities and natural vegetarian food on sale. Drawing on the teachings of Osho there are more than 1000 different experiences on offer at the festival in 10 air-conditioned halls and across the green campus. Workshops include dance movement, silence workshops, nutritional awareness, breathing and feeling, yoga, body therapy, meditation and relationship workshops among others. At night there are musical performances on three stages by leading artists and a great festival atmosphere. The range of musical genres includes everything from spiritual music, punk and grove to mellow acoustic and mystical Indian music. The parties beneath the stars continue late into the night.Practical InformationWhere: Giv’at Haviva, off route #574 between Barkai, Gan Hashomron and Harish.When: July/August each year.Cost: Tickets include all festival events approximately 320ILS-420ILS depending when you buy the tickets. This price includes the use of the camp ground. If you prefer it is possible to rent a room on the campus.Contact: 052 888 3040

If you’re visiting Israel with kids you’ll find that they enjoy most of the famous attractions just as much as the adults like Jerusalem’s Old City, the Dead Sea and the Sea of Galilee. However there are some attractions that are specifically geared towards children and will please them even more!Steinhardt Natural History Museum, Tel Aviv.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinChildren’s Museum, HolonIsrael’s most famous children’s museum offers a number of tours through the museum suited to various age groups ranging from 2 to 11 years old. Each tour follows a specific theme: For 2.5-4-year-olds there is A Trip with Yanshul (owl-cat) where visitors learn about friendship. This age group can also take the Following the Butterflies tour which takes kids into a world of reptiles and introduces them to Zig Zag, a reptile character who doesn’t want to grow up. For 4-6 year-olds there is the Journey to Restore the Kingdom of Time. This route introduces kids to the cycle of life. 6-8-year-olds go into the Magical Forest on a journey led by a mischievous elf where kids learn about emotions and feelings. The 8 to 11 age group has a tour route called Aliens. The most famous of the museum’s experiences is Invitation to Silence for kids over 9 years old. The entire tour is conducted in silence and introduces kids to the world of the hearing impaired. The tour is led by deaf and hearing-impaired guides. Dialogue in the Dark is similar to Invitation to Silence but deals with the world of the visually impaired. This tour is led by blind or visually impaired guides. Dialogue with Time deals with old age and is led by guides over 70 years old. All of these tours must be booked ahead of time.Safari Park and Zoo, Ramat Gan.Photo credit: © ShutterstockSafari Park and Zoo, Ramat GanIsrael has a number of zoos but the only safari park is in Ramat Gan. At the Safari Park Ramat Gan, there is a section where animals can be seen in their “natural” environment as visitors drive through on a “safari” and there is also a conventional zoo. The Safari also has special tours at night and in the early morning. Another interesting Israeli zoo is the Biblical Zoo in Jerusalem. This zoo features animals that are mentioned in the Bible.Weizmann Institute Clore Garden of ScienceThis is a very kid-friendly museum completely outdoors and hands-on. Kids can learn about scientific principles by experimenting with sound, water, vibrations, and weights. The interactive museum is in the heart of the prestigious Weizmann Institute of Science in Rehovot. It challenges visitors to question their perceptions and enhance their understanding of the laws of nature and science. There are nearly 80 hands-on exhibits to demonstrate principles like solar energy, gravity, waves, sound, and more. Also within the 10,000m² facilities, there is a geodesic dome – an ecosphere where ecology is taught through demonstrations about microclimates and plants.Gan GarooThis is a zoo completely devoted to Australian animals and specifically kangaroos. Kids can get up close and feed the animals. They will see kangaroos roaming around freely and will be able to meet cassowary, flying foxes, koalas, and other Australian animals and birds. Gan Garoo also offers overnight camping in the park, a bush maze, aborigine cultural shows, and tours through the park.Children in Nimrod Castle, the Golan Heights. Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinGenesis LandGo back in time to the biblical era in the heart of the Judean Desert. This is the land where the biblical Patriarchs lived. Visitors are met by Abraham’s manservant Eliezer who tells you about his homeland and lifestyle. You are then invited to put on typical 1st-century smocks and head coverings before setting out on a short camel ride down to Abraham’s tent. Having dismounted your camel you will be invited into Abraham’s tent for some fresh dates, nuts, and water before helping to make pita bread on an open fire. All of this happens in the most stunning desert landscape. The attraction also offers workshops, special meals for groups, and desert camping.Kfar KedemAt Kfar Kedem the whole family can take part in hands-on, interactive activities like making bread, pressing olives for oil, and cheese making as it was done in ancient times. Visitors are given 1st-century smocks and head coverings to get in the mood and make the experience more authentic. Then you can go on to take a donkey ride, visit the pastures and see how wool is made, and making the traditional olive oil and pita bread. Kfar Kedem (ancient village) is set in the lush Galilee countryside not far from Nazareth and visits must be booked in advance.Children strolling in Acre, Israel.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinNazareth Jesus VillageJust outside Nazareth at Nazareth Village, a 1st-century village has been completely recreated. This attraction is geared towards Christian visitors who want to get insight into the life Jesus might have led in Nazareth. The staff is in 1st-century costume and there are people demonstrating traditional crafts and chores.Visitors are given 1st century-style clothing to wear so they complete the picture of an ancient village as they walk around the site. You can see inside a typical biblical era home, take part in various day-to-day 1st century activities and learn about the lifestyle of the villages. As part of the experience, visitors will learn about Jesus and his teachings and see biblical stories come to life. You can add a biblical meal to your tour to complete the experience.AcreThe ancient city of Acre (or Akko) was an important port city for thousands of years. Greeks, Romans, Crusaders, Mamluks, and Ottomans all left their mark here. You can explore the ancient Knights’ Hospitaller Fortress, walk through hidden underground tunnels used by the Templars, see an ancient Turkish bathhouse and an enchanted garden. There are a number of set routes through the Old City of Akko retracing the footsteps of Napoleon, the Ottomans, Crusaders, and others. Kids will love the many passages and secret rooms beneath the ground. Above ground, there is a bustling market among the ancient houses and through the cobbled lanes. At the end of the market street, you will reach the old Acre Port where there are short boat excursions and restaurants.Rosh Hanikra Sea Caves, Israel. Photo credit: © ShutterstockRosh HanikraKids will love going down in a cable car into a 200-meter network of passages through white limestone caves as the sea laps up against the edges of the Rosh Hanikra caves. Through the openings in the caves, you can see the sea which reflects the white cave walls and takes on a gorgeous turquoise hue. There are legends of pirates using the caves to store their loot and many stories of how these caves served various armies in the past.Ma’alit HaZmanJerusalem’s Time Elevator takes you on a journey through 3,000 years of Jerusalem’s history. The 4D experience is exciting and educational. Visitors get 3D glasses and watch a 3D movie while experiencing special effects like moving chairs, wind, and splashes of water. Some of the important historic events covered include the destruction of the 1st century Temple, the Roman conquest, and the birth of Christianity.For more information on the best family attractions in Israel feel free to read this article. Explore the above-mentioned attractions with Israel private tours.

Israel has amazing weather and incredible natural beauty which means that there are plenty of outdoor activities and exciting ways to keep kids entertained. Kids will love the top attractions in Israel like the Old City of Jerusalem and the Dead Sea but there are attractions which will give kids a chance to run around and have some hands-on fun!1. Kayaking and River Rafting in IsraelThere are two main locations in Israel for river rafting and kayaking, one is from Kibbutz Kfar Blum and the other from Kibbutz HaGoshrim; both are on the River Jordan and Hatzbani River. The rafting and kayak sites are set in lush green countryside and they offer all the equipment and variations of rafting and kayaking for the whole family. Anyone over five years old can take part and there are routes with instructors and routes that you can navigate by yourselves. There are raft boats for up to 6 people and kayaks for 1 or 2 people. The routes take 1-2 hours. Both sites have toilets, showers, snack bars and attractions for kids.2. Mey KedemGo for a daring adventure walking though an ancient water tunnel which extends 280 meters. 2000 years ago King Herod devised this engineering wonder to bring fresh water from Tzabirin Spring to the Roman city in Caesarea. The complete water system stretches for 6km but visitors can walk through 280 meters of the tunnel with water up to their knees. The adventure starts in Alona Park near Binyamina and visitors can see a short introductory film as well as get a tour of the water tunnel. It takes about an hour and you should bring a flashlight.3. Ein Gedi Nature ReserveJust west of the Dead Sea, off route 90, is this oasis in the desert, it boasts two streams which flow year round and lush vegetation surrounding this rare water source in the driest area of the country. The water and vegetation attracts animals and visitors can see ibex and cute hyrax (dassies) among the reeds, ferns and rock cliffs. There are a number of walking trails through the reserve including one alongside the Ein Gedi Stream and the David Stream. You’ll see waterfalls, gorgeous natural pools and the surrounding flora and fauna. Kids can take a dip in some of the streams and pools and will enjoy seeing the many animals.4. EilatThe whole city of Eilat is a wonderland for kids, from the ice skating rink in the middle of a mall to the diving with dolphins and gorgeous beaches. Take a few days to explore this ultimate resort city. Kids can go on camel rides in the desert, swim with dolphins or spend the day doing fun water sports like water skiing, motor boating and jet skiing.5. Old City Jerusalem RampartsKids will love walking along the ramparts high above the Old City walls. From here you’ll have brilliant views and a chance to teach kids a bit of history as they pretend they are defending the city. You’ll be able to circle the city and look down into some areas where tourists rarely go like the Armenian compound. The walls were constructed under Suleiman the Magnificent in the 16th century and have played an important role in the city’s history ever since. It isn’t possible to completely circumvent the Old City as there is a break at the Jaffa Gate and the Temple Mount section is closed. However you can start climbing the ramparts at the Jaffa Gate and continue on to the Zion Gate and Dung Gate. Alternatively access the ramparts from the Damascus Gate and walk on to the Lions’ Gate.6. Israeli Water ParksThere are several great water parks in Israel including Yamit 2000 in Holon; Shefayim near Natanyia; Sahek Ota in Emek Hefer (the only water park which operates year round) and Maimeidon in Tel Aviv. In addition there are several smaller water parks. Most of the parks open just for Jewish holidays and the summer months. As with water parks in other countries there are great water slides, open lawns, kid’s pools and wave pools.7. Amusement ParksIsrael’s most iconic amusement park is the Luna Park in Tel Aviv; it boasts many exciting rides for all ages. The Luna Park has bumper cars, carousels, a high Ferris wheel as well as thrilling roller coasters. Superland is another popular amusement park located in Rishon LeZion where there are wet and dry rides as well as three roller coasters and many exciting rides.8. Ice SkatingThere are ice skating rinks in Israel from Canada Center, Metulla in the extreme north to the Ice Mall in Eilat on the Red Sea. The professional ice skaters train in Metulla while the Eilat rink is in the middle of a shopping mall and is the largest rink in the country. You can also find an ice skating rink in the heart of Tel Aviv alongside the Luna Park. Tel Aviv’s iSkate is open to everyone over 6 years old or 3.7 meters tall. Jerusalem has a new ice rink in the Jerusalem Cinema City which is scheduled to open in 2017.9. Israeli BeachesAll along the Mediterranean coast you’ll find ideal beaches for the whole family. Whether you’re based in Tel Aviv, Hertzlyia, Natanyia or Ashkelon there are endless sandy beaches to choose from. For something a little more unusual visit the Dead Sea beaches or the Sea of Galilee beaches.10. Dig for a DayWith so much history in Israel there are constant archaeological excavations in progress. You can join in one of these digs for a three hour session that includes digging, sifting and analysis of the findings. This all takes place at the National Park of Beit Guvrin where you can crawl through the unexcavated cave system. The Dig for a Day program is for adults and kids aged 5 to 14 years. While here you can explore the amazing natural caves in the national park.

In Israel you can literally follow in the footsteps of Jesus, visiting the many locations where he preached, lived and died. The Gospel Trail (also called the Jesus Trail) is a moderate hike route which has been devised linking several significant points mentioned in the Gospel so that those following the trail can not only enjoy the gorgeous countryside of northern Israel but also visit biblical sites.Stones With The Colorful Christian Religious Drawing.Photo credit: © ShutterstockThe Gospel Trail runs through Galilee, often called the cradle of Christianity because it was here that Jesus grew up and where he returned to preach during his ministry. Jesus grew up in Nazarethand later based himself in Capernaum during his ministry when he went from village to village preaching God’s word.The Gospel Trail opened in 2011 today it covers 60 km of signposted footpaths and roads which trace historical and biblical routes where Jesus is believed to have walked when he left Nazareth for Capernaum on the northwestern shore of the Sea of Galilee. The signposts which mark the route are hewn into basalt rock to blend into the natural surroundings. Each signpost features scriptures relating to the Biblical events which took place at that location. Along the way, there are also information stands, picnic sites, and benches.It is possible to follow the trail on foot, bike, by car, or combine those using different forms of transport on different stretches of the trail. You can choose which segments of the route you follow according to your interests and your fitness level. There are even stretches of the trail which are wheelchair accessible.The thorn crown.Photo by Samuel Lopes on UnsplashThe Gospel Trail RouteThe Gospel Trail runs from Nazareth to Capernaum. The route begins at Mount Precipice, on the southern outskirts of Nazareth, and travels through valleys and limestone hills via Beit Qeshet Oak Reserve, Magdala, Tabgha and finally reaches Capernaum on the edge of the Sea of Galilee. The route incorporates pathways that have been used by shepherds, travelers, farmers, and merchants since ancient times. The route ends at the Capernaum Center from where you can reach the Sea of Galilee where a dock has been constructed so that followers of the trail can pray at the water’s edge and enjoy the breathtaking views across the water.Gospel Trail Points of InterestNazareth – The city where the Angel Gabriel appeared to Mary to tell her of her future pregnancy and son. It is also the city where Jesus grew up. One of the highlights of Nazareth is the Church of the AnnunciationTsipori National Park – This was the administrative capital of Galilee in Jesus’ lifetime. In addition to the amazing nature, there is an archeological site dating back to the 2nd century. It is most famous for its Byzantine mosaics on an ancient synagogue floor.Cana – Here Jesus performed his first miracle turning water into wine. Visitors can see the Wedding Church and museum.Mount of Beatitudes, Israel.Photo credit: © ShutterstockIlaniya – This small Jewish community was one of the earliest farming community settlements. Today the community offers visitors a model 20th century farm, the ruins of a Byzantine synagogue, and some ancient caves.Roman Road – The route crosses an ancient Roman road that would have been used by Jesus. During his lifetime it was a major thoroughfare running east to west.Kibbutz Lavi – One of only a few orthodox religious kibbutzim; it was founded in 1949 and today is known as a major producer of synagogue furniture.Horns of Hattin – A decisive battle took place here between the Crusaders and Saladin in 1187. From the double hills, there are brilliant views across the Galilee.Nebi Shu’eib – The site of the traditional Tomb of Jethro, father-in-law of Moses. Today the site is marked by a large Druze mosque and complex.Arbel National Park – There are gorgeous views from these dramatic cliffs where the Romans conquered the Hasmonean rebels.Interior of the Church of the Multiplication, Tabgha. Photo credit: © ShutterstockMigdal (Magdala)– This is the site of the ancient town of Magdala, the hometown of Mary Magdalene. Here there are several Roman-era ruins.Sea of Galilee – Israel’s largest freshwater lake is also the site of many biblical events. It was here that Jesus walked on water and calmed the storm. Today you can take short cruises on the lake, swim and enjoy the beaches.Jesus Boat – A 1st-century fishing boat was discovered in the Sea of Galilee; it has been preserved and is on display at Kibbutz Ginosar.Tabgha – Visit the Church of the Multiplication of Loaves and Fishes and see where Jesus appeared to his disciples after his resurrection.Mount of Beatitudes – This was the site of the Sermon on the Mount. Today the mount is topped by a beautiful church.St. Peter’s Primacy, Tabgha– This church on the water’s edge was built in 1933 and marks the site where Jesus made Peter head of the church. The church holds the Mensa Christi, a slab of rock thought to be where Jesus sat with his disciples.Capernaum – Jesus based himself in Capernaum while preaching in Galilee and there are several mentions of Capernaum in the Bible. This is also where Jesus performed a number of miracles and where you can see St. Peter’s House.You can continue on from Capernaum to visit the city of Tiberias, the Jordan River, Mount Tabor, and Mount Precipice as a continuation of the Gospel Trail. Most of these sites can be covered with Nazareth and Galilee toursor Christian Israel tour packages.Sea of Galilee view. Photo credit: © Shutterstock

Safed (Tsfat) is often overlooked by tourists but is another fascinating corner of this amazing and diverse country. The mountain top city of Safed in the Galilee is known as the birthplace of Kabbalah, the ancient mystic side of Judaism. The city is in the clouds perched 900 meters above sea level; it has a spiritual and mysterious atmosphere, old synagogues, and is steeped in history. Its location offers gorgeous mountain views, the weather is mild and there is even snow in Safed in the winter.Galilee landscape near Safed.Photo credit: © ShutterstockThe History of SafedA legend tells us that Safed was established by the son of Noah after the flood. During the Roman era, it was a fortified Jewish town and it is mentioned in the Jerusalem Talmud as one of five elevated locations where bonfire would be lit to announce the timing of the new moon and festivals during the Second Temple era. The city was a Crusader city in the 12th century and the site of the largest Knights Templar fort in the Middle East. In the 13th century, the Egyptian Mamluk Sultan Beibars took the mountain top city but a community of Jews remained further down the mountain. The Muslim city grew and new structures were built; this continued into the Turkish Ottoman era when Safed was the capital of the Safed Sanjak (district). The Seraya Ottoman fortress has survived.After the expulsion of the Jews from Spain in 1492 many respected rabbis settled in Safed including Kabbalists Moshe Kordovero, Shlomo Halevi Alkabetz, Isaac Luria, and Joseph Caro. During the 16th century, Safed became known as the center of Kabbalah thanks to the many learned Jewish scholars in the town and Safed’s close proximity to the area where Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai (Rashbi) wrote the Kabbalistic Book of Zohar.Safed street. Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinAlthough still a Muslim town there was a strong Jewish community. In 1577 a Hebrew printing press was established in Safed and there were 32 synagogues in the town. Safed was affected by an earthquake in 1759 and again in 1837 and the town also suffered at the hands of Druze rebels and the plague. Moses Montefiore visited Safed several times and helped finance the repair of the town.During the British Mandate Jews and Arabs continued to live in Safed under tense relations. By 1948 and the establishment of the Jewish state Safed was home to about 1,700 Jews and about 12,000 Arabs. A battle ensued when the Muslim Arabs attacked the Jewish Quarter; after an intense conflict the Jews prevailed and almost all the Safed Arabs fled. In the 50s and 60s, the city became known for its artists’ colony; Jewish artists from around the world settled here to enjoy inspiration from the beautiful scenic surroundings and spiritual atmosphere. In the 2000s many Ethiopian and Russian Jewish immigrants settled in Safed joining the predominantly Ashkenazi Jews and adding to the diverse culture of the city. The city remained a place of religious learning and spiritual enlightenment and has a community of both religious and secular Jews as well as small Russian Christian and Maronites communities.The city of Safed, overlooking the Sea of Galilee.Photo credit: © ShutterstockWhat is Kabbalah?Kabbalah is a Jewish discipline and school of thought consisting of esoteric teachings intended to explain the relationship between man and God; the nature of the universe and the meaning of existence. It is the philosophical study of the nature of being through Jewish writings; the origin of evil; the role of man; reincarnation and the concealed and revealed God. Kabbalah has become more widely known in recent years thanks to well-known followers like Madonna and Justin Kuchner.Visiting SafedAny visit to Safed should start at the Tourist Information Center on Alkabetz Street. The center provides information to tourists as well as hosting several impressive exhibits and an introductory film about Safed. The Tourist Center encompasses excavated homes from the 1500s which are open to the public for free.The Old City of Safed is built of stone similar to Jerusalem with narrow cobbled lanes flanked by stone houses. There are ornate arched entrances to the homes, colorful wooden shutters on the windows, bright window boxes, domed ceilings, and other features reminiscent of a Spanish Kahal (Spanish Jewish Quarter) of the Middle Ages.The Safed Artists’ Quarter consists of several lanes with artists’ studios, stores, and galleries. Most of the artwork is inspired by the Kabbalah, Torah, or the general spiritual feel of the city. The works include paintings, drawings, textiles, metalwork, and sculptures. There are also handmade candles, religious items, Judaica, glassware, handmade musical instruments, and microcalligraphy where a picture is created using minute Hebrew letters and texts from the Bible as the lines and shapes in the design.At Safed Synagogue, the Old City of Safed, Israel.Photo credit: © ShutterstockSafed’s has two famous synagogues with similar names both of which are top tourist attractions. The Ari Synagogue is named after Rabbi Isaac Luria (The ‘Ari Hakadosh‘) who arrived here in 1570 and developed the Lurianic Kabbalah which teaches that secrets embedded in the Torah can reveal how to strengthen our relationship with God and our fellow man. The synagogue has a small alcove where the Ari is believed to have sat and studied with the spirit of the Prophet Elijah.The Gerigos Synagogue was built by Spanish Jews who had adopted Christianity under duress during the Spanish inquisition and arrived in Safed via the Greek island of Gerigos. On arrival in Safed, they were not readily accepted by Safed Jews and built their synagogue on the outskirts of the city. The Ari would come to the field next to the Gerigo Synagogue to sing Psalms on a Friday afternoon welcoming the Sabbath. Following Ari’s death, the Gerigos Jews were accepted into the Jewish community and their synagogue was renamed Ari Ashkenazi after Ari’s Ashkenazi mother. The Ari Ashkenazi Synagogue holds the precious Elijah’s Chair where traditionally the godfather would sit during a baby’s circumcision ceremony. Abuhav Synagogue, Safed. Photo credit: © ShutterstockTradition holds that if an infertile couple sits on the chair they will be blessed with a child within the year. The Joseph Caro Synagogue is named after Rabbi Joseph Caro a 15th-century Spanish exile who had settled in Safed. He is believed to have been charged by God with the task of compiling an easily understandable yet comprehensive book of Jewish Law which would ensure the continued practices and customs of the Torah by Jews at the time. It is believed that God sent an angel to sit with Caro in a Safed cave where he wrote this summary of Jewish Law called the Shulhan Aruch. Rabbi Caro was head of the Rabbinical Court in Safed. The Joseph Caro Synagogue was built on top of the cave where he wrote the Shulhan Aruch. The synagogue has an ornate handmade wooden Ark (where the Torah scrolls are kept) and it is possible to see the famous cave beneath the synagogue.The Abuhav Synagogue is an ornate place of worship with a domed ceiling painted with Kabbalistic images. The synagogue holds ancient Torah scrolls which are still used in religious services including a 100-year-old scroll written by Rabbi Abuhav.If you have time to include a visit to Safed in your Israel itinerary, you won’t be disappointed! Liked this article? If you do, you are welcome to join our one-day to tour to Safed.The artist's studio in Safed, Israel.Photo credit: © Shutterstock

Israel may not be the land of skyscrapers like some other countries but it does have a number of places where you can get a great view of the famous skylines and natural wonders. Here is a list of some of the best places in Israel to get a bird’s eye view. The list goes from northern Israel to Eilat in the south.Azrieli Towers at night, Tel Aviv.Photo by Shai Pal on Unsplash1. Mount ManaraTake Israel’s longest cable car 1940 meters to the top of this mount which is part of the Naftali Mountain range. The mountain top is 750 meters above sea level. From the top, you can see the Golan Heights, Galilee, Hermon Mountain,Hula Valley, and Israel’s most beautiful farmlands. There is a range of fun activities at Mt. Manara including a mountain slide back to the bottom.2. Eshkol Tower, HaifaThis is the main campus tower of the University of Haifa on Mount Carmel. The observation deck is on the 27th floor of the 102-meter high tower and gives you sweeping views down the mountainside and across Haifa. It was designed by Oscar Niemeyer and was the first building in Israel to use the curtain wall system. The observation deck is not always open to the general public so call the Hecht Museum ahead of time.3. Yefe Nof Balcony, HaifaLooking down the beautiful terraced garden past the golden-domed Shrine of the Bab in Bahai Gardens you can see the city below and the sea beyond that. On a clear day, you can see up and down the coast. Tel Aviv Port Area Aerial View. Photo byShai PalonUnsplash4. Azrieli Center ,Tel-AvivThe ultimate observation deck in Tel-Aviv (and perhaps the most famous in the country) is on the top floor of the Azrieli Center Circular Tower, Tel-Aviv’s tallest building. The tower is one of a complex of three towers, a circular, square, and triangular tower. The observation deck is completely enclosed and gives you a 360° view of the city below. It is on the 49th floor and also has a kosher fine-dining restaurant. There are telescopes and informative maps indicating the sites below. The observation deck is accessed by an elevator from the mall at the bottom of the tower.5. Rehavam Ze’evi Observation Point, JerusalemThis promenade on the edge of the Mount of Olives looks down over an ancient Jewish cemetery. You can look out across the hills of Jerusalem and across the Old City walls to the Dome of the Rock.Eilat waterfront with a whale in the Red Sea.Photo by Et Yan on Unsplash6. Mitzpe Ramon Visitor’s CenterPerched 300 meters above the Ramon Crater this center provides not only an amazing view across the crater and Negev Desert but also informative audio-visual presentations and models of the local geography. There is a rooftop observatory where you can look down onto the dramatic desert landscape of Mitzpe Ramon.7. Underwater Observation Tower, EilatOn a visit to the marine park where there are aquariums, 3D films, and many marine-related attractions you can also enjoy a view across the Eilat coastline. A distinctive white tower is located at the end of a walkway that juts out into the Red Sea. You can walk up a spiral staircase to the windy top of the tower and look out across Eilat. You can also descend beneath sea level and visit the underwater observation deck!View of Bahai gardens and Haifa Bay, Israel.Photo by Levi Meir Clancy on Unsplash

Coins have always been, first and foremost, a means of payment, but they have also been used to communicate messages. We also look at coins for the evidence they provide for commercial, religious and cultural relations. The coins that found their way to Jerusalem, are testimonies to the importance of the capital as a cosmopolitan center and focus of pilgrimage. In times of peace, Jerusalem attracted visitors, traders and pilgrims of all religions. In times of war, the political and strategic importance of Jerusalem brought invading and conquering armies into the city. All these visitors also left their mark in the coin finds in Jerusalem, especially from the excavations close to the Temple Mount.This exhibition focuses on the international character of Jerusalem, and of the Temple Mount in particular, by showing a selection of hoards and isolated coins discovered during the excavations of Prof. Benjamin Mazar between 1968 and 1977. The wide geographic provenance of these coins extends from the Sasanian empire in Persia, Chartres in France and Carthage in North Africa. The coins provide exceptional insight into the relationships between different peoples, the coins they used and the value they placed in those coins.All the Roads Lead to JerusalemDuring excavations in Jerusalem, and close to the Temple Mount in particular, a large number of coins coming from distant places in the Mediterranean was found. The ten coins exhibited here represent a wide range of mints, periods and materials. Some of the coins are most unusual in our region, such as the silver drachm from Ephesos in Ionia, southwest Turkey; the gold aureus of emperor Tacitus struck in Rome and the bronze follis of the Byzantine emperor Constantine IV minted in Syracuse, Sicily. Other coins, such as Carthage or Ravenna – whose provenance might seem curious – were actually integral part of the coins in circulation during the fifth and sixth centuries CE. Some of the cities mentioned here, such as Constantinople (today Istanbul), Antioch in Syria and Alexandria in Egypt constitute the most common mints from which coins circulated in our region in the Hellenistic through the Byzantine periods. Some of these “foreign” coins also figure in the Jewish tradition. For instance, the silver sheqels and half-sheqels minted in Tyre (in Lebanon), were singled out as the ideal means of payment of the half-sheqel head tax to the Jerusalem Temple.The Sasanian Coin HoardEleven Sasanian silver drachms from the hoard are exhibited here. The hoard was discovered within a drainage channel which was part of the central sewage drain of a large public latrine, built in the Roman period and still in use during the Byzantine period. It seems that the owner lost this handful of coins around 535 CE, at the time he was in the public latrine. The coins in the hoard date from the period between governor Peroz (463-484 CE) to the days of king Khusro I (531-535 CE). The coins come from several cities in Iran, among them Shiraz, Kerman, Ray, Hamadan (Echbatana) and Merv. These types of coins are characteristic of the Sasanian rulers in Iran. On one side is the bust of the king and an inscription in Pahlevic; on the other side is an altar flanked by two priests. Depicted is a sacrifice scene, deriving from Zoroastrianism. Sasanian coins minted before the Persian conquest of 614 CE are quite rare finds in Israel. The coins are evidence of the peaceful relations between the Byzantine empire and the Sasanian kingdom during that period.The Fatimid Coin HoardThree gold Fatimid hoards were discovered in 1968-1969. The hoard exhibited here includes fifty-one gold coins, dinars and quarter-dinars, dated from 982 to 1095 CE. Most of the coins were minted during the last fifteen years of reign of caliph Al-Mustansir (1036-1094 CE). This ruler is known as the one who brought the Fatimid dynasty to its zenith. The high gold content of the coins gives evidence to the dynasty’s prosperous economy. The design on most of the coins is a central “bull’s eye” with three concentric circles of legends around it. The majority of the coins were struck in Egypt and North Africa, in Misr (Cairo, Fustat), Alexandria, al-Mansuriyya and Mahadiyya; a number of coins were struck in Syria-Tripolis, Akko and Tyre. One dinar is not Fatimid but Almoravid, from the city of Sijilmasa in Algeria.The latest coins in the hoardare dated to year 1095 CE, when Jerusalem was under Seljuk rule. Therefore, it seems likely that the coins were brought to the city when the Fatimids reconquered Jerusalem in 1098 CE. A short time later, in 1099 CE, the city was conquered by the Crusaders. Presumably, coins were hidden in this occasion. The uniformity of the hoard, and the historical circumstances, suggest that this is an emergency hoard, abruptly concealed upon the Crusader’s arrival and never recovered by its owner.A Hoard of Feudal French Coins and a Papal BullaA hoard of French coins and a lead papal bulla dated to the Crusader period were uncovered during the excavations in 1968 and 1971. Both exceptional finds are dated to the twelfth century CE and were found in a sector that was under the control of the Order of the Templars. The hoard was discovered in a drain channel; the bulla within a room surrounded by walls of the Crusader period. The hoard yields seventy-five debased silver thin deniers, seventy-four struck in the city of Chartres, and one minted in Blois. The coins are anonymous, most probably dated to the time of count Thibaut V (1152-1191). All the Chartrain coins belong to the same type, depicting a stylized head of a king on the obverse, and on the reverse a Maltese cross surrounded by the inscription: +CARTIS CIVITAS.Similar hoards were discovered in France and elsewhere in the Mediterranean, along the routes used by the Crusaders. Due to the chronic lack of local coinage in the Latin Kingdom’s treasure, European currencies flood the East and circulated alongside with the local coins. The uniformity of the hoard suggests that the coins arrived in Jerusalem from Europe already as a single group, most probably belonging to a pilgrim or knight who deposited them for safekeeping with the Templars. The lead bulla, naming Pope Alexander III (1159-1181 CE) was impressed in Rome. Lead bullas were used as official seals on important documents, and were frequently utilized by officials of the Latin Kingdom. While several bullas have been discovered in our region, papal bullas are extremely rare. This is the first bulla of its type ever discovered in an archaeological excavation. The name of the pope is inscribed on one side; the portraits of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, fathers of the Christian church, appear on the other side, together with abbreviations of their names: S(ANCTVS) PA(VLVS) S(ANCTVS) PE(TRVS). The appearance of this bulla in Jerusalem is evidence to the close relations existing between Rome and the Holy City during the tenure of Alexander III. His papacy is characterized by a large number of edicts issued to the Latin Kingdom in general and the Order of the Templars in particular. It seems most likely that the hoard and the bulla were among the possessions which the Templars abandoned when the city of Jerusalem capitulated to Saladin in 1187.Acknowledgments:Curators: Gabriela Bijovsky, Dr. Hava Katz, Israel Antiquities AuthorityDesign and Production: Studio Avidani, JerusalemProject manager: Gad KlierStudio photography: Clara Amit, Israel Antiquities AuthoritField photography: Israel Antiquities Authority; Dr. Eilat MazarCoin illustrations: Pnina AradArabic translation: Fawzi IbrahimEditing: Dr. Zvi Gal, Dr. Donald T. Ariel, Israel Antiquities AuthorityCoin Loans: Israel Antiquities Authority

In Israel a mall is referred to as a “canyon” pronounced the same way as the Grand “Canyon”. You will find many Israeli brands, international brand stores and a wide range of entertainment opportunities in the malls. Jerusalem in particular has a number of large and impressive malls.Malcha MallLocated in the affluent south west Jerusalem Malcha neighborhood this is the city’s largest shopping mall. The mall has more than 250 stores spread over three levels with a total of 37,000m² of commercial space. The stores include Zara, H&M, Office Depot, Mango, SuperPharm, Toys R Us and supermarkets. In addition to the stores there are service oriented businesses like banks, tailoring services, ATMs, opticians, money changers, hairdressers, florists, post office and spa treatment services. You can even find play areas here and a synagogue as well as cinemas. There is a huge food court which is completely kosher. There is parking for up to 3,000 cars, the first two hours are free and after that each hour costs 5ILS. Open hours are Sunday to Thursday 09:30 – 22:00 and Friday 09:30 – 15:00. The mall is closed from 15:00 on Friday until an hour after sundown on Saturday and until 23:00 on Saturday night.Mamila MallLocated next to Jaffa Gate of the Old City this is one of the most attractive malls in the city. The mall consists of a central promenade with boutique-style stores on either side. Following the mall promenade from the entrance on King David Street all the way to the end you will be able to walk right into the Old City. There are two levels to the mall which also connects to a luxury hotel. There are a number of cafes with outdoor seating; the café’s on the upper level have great views onto the Old City. Mamila Mall is open from Sunday to Thursday 10:00 to 23:00; Friday 09:30 to 15:30 and on Saturdays from one hour after sundown until 23:00. The mall parking is free for the first hour, 12ILS for each consecutive hour (or 3ILS for each 15 minutes) and alternatively 48ILS for the whole day.Center 1 MallLocated at the Central Bus Station this is a very convenient mall to reach. The mall has two floors with about 70 stores spread over 15,000m² of commercial space. There is covered parking for a fee. The mall is geared towards the Orthodox Jewish community with all of the food outlets being Kosher Mehadrin (Glatt) and the lady’s only gym, Lady Giraffe Gym is located here. Perhaps the biggest plus point of this mall is that you can wait for your bus in the air conditioned mall! The mall is open Sunday to Thursday 10:00 to 21:00, Friday 10:00 to 15:00 and on Saturday from an hour after sundown until midnight.Lev Talpiot MallThis is a mall for those looking for plenty of activities as there are a number of great places of entertainment especially for the young and young at heart. The mall is located at 17 Haoman in the Talpiot neighborhood and has about 90 stores. The entertainment venues are concentrated on the roof top where there is mini-golf, trampoline bungee, water ball (where you are inside a giant ball rolling on the surface of the water) and a dance bar. The mall is across the street from a movie complex. The mall has a bowling alley, restaurants and cafes. The mall is open Sunday to Thursday 09:00 to 20:30; Friday from 09:00 to 14:30 and Saturday from half an hour after sundown until 23:00.

Hipsters are always looking for cool unusual things to do no matter if they are in their local neighborhood or on vacation. Even Tel Aviv has its hipster hang-outs and hipster clubs, pubs, cafes and attractions. Here are some great ideas for hipsters in Tel Aviv.Hipsters love the urban vibe, melting pot of cultures, indie music, alternative styles, non-mainstream fashion from vintage to thrift stores and organic artisan food. These gentrified bohemians will feel right at home in Tel Aviv.Tel Aviv Hipster HotelsTel Aviv is full of hipster-friendly hotels like Brown Hotel TLV where there is a hot bar scene and worn leather wing chairs in the lobby. Mendeli Street Hotel is a chic beach-side hotel popular with solo hipster travelers who enjoy the integrated local art and the boutique feel of this remodeled 70s Brutalist building.Tel Aviv’s Hipster NeighborhoodsYou’ll find yuppie hipsters hanging out in cafes in the Neve Tzedek neighborhood. This is a picturesque part of the city with many restored historic buildings. The neighborhood boasts quaint book stores, art galleries and trendy bars along Shabazi Street.Neve TzedekFlorentin is Tel Aviv’s ultimate Hipster neighborhood and it has been compared to New York City’s Brooklyn. Florentin took second place in a list of top international Hipster neighborhoods. The neighborhood even inspired a television series about the cool young residents of this area. If you ignore the more run down parts of Florentin you can enjoy the many cozy cafes, friendly bars and delicious food with local artists, students, foreign residents and up and coming entrepreneurs. Check out Taxidermy Bar with its unique décor or mellow at The Pasaz Allenby. Rothschild 12 is a good place for free live entertainment and urban-chic while Satchmo is the place to go for hip jazz. Tel Aviv has some innovative art museums and independent galleries; many are located on Gordon Street. In Holon hipsters will love the Design Museum and the Israeli Museum of Caricature and Comics. Hipsters should also check out Shenkin Street for bohemian chic, Rothschild Boulevard and the organic farmers’ market at Tel Aviv Port.Hipster Nightlife in Tel AvivFlorentin is also the neighborhood to head to when the sun goes down as the best nightclubs are here including Hoodna. Radio EPGB is a bar for trendsetters but it is not easy to find and so maintains some of its exclusive feel. You’ll hear great music like the Beatles, Don McLean and Radiohead and on Sundays there is a drag show. HaMinzar at Allenby 60 is one of the cool hipster bar/restaurants in Tel Aviv. It is an unassuming space but the food is delicious and the people fascinating.Tel Aviv is literally hipster heaven. Everywhere you look there is some cool individual trying something new or reinventing what already exists in the most hip and indie way.

When you camp around the Kinneret (the Sea of Galilee) you are literally camping “around” the Sea of Galilee as you can see from the campground names which are usually identified with the name of the beach they occupy. Israelis love to camp and you can find campgrounds suited for families and others more suited to youngsters. Here we have listed some of the facilities on offer at each site but there may be more facilities.Camping Around the Sea of Galilee. Photo by Adam Sherez on UnsplashTake into account that during the Israeli school holidays the campgrounds get very full and very noisy with individual sound systems and all-night gatherings around a BBQ. But another thing about Israelis is they love to include all those around them so you won’t be left out. Camping is a great way to meet the locals. There is no ideal location to camp on the Kinneret as the total distance around the Sea of Galilee is 55 km so everything is pretty close. Whether you want to be close to Tiberias would perhaps be the only factor to consider in terms of location. Otherwise, choose the style of campground you prefer and the one with the facilities you need.Jordan Park CampgroundThis campground is run by the JNF (Keren Kayemet L’Yisrael or KKL) and is within Jordan Park which covers 250 acres northeast of the Kinneret alongside the eastern channel of the Jordan River. It is one of the area’s largest campgrounds. The campground is free to enter if you walk in but there is a fee per car. At several points in the park, there are streams from the Jordan River, and some deep enough to swim. Here you can find electricity outlets, lighting, restrooms, showers, water coolers, camping tables, a small amusement park, mini-market, lawns, and a place to pitch your tent. Uba Kayak, a popular kayak rental business is located in the park. You can kayak on the Jordan River from here. Nearby there is an opportunity to go horseback riding. This is considered a unique campsite and is operated from April to November.Tiberias. Photo by Thalia Tran on UnsplashAmnon BeachLocated near Kfar Nahum at the northern end of the Kinneret this campsite has many facilities and is popular with Christians who recognize this site as Capernaum. Tents and caravans can use this site and there are picnic tables, benches, shaded areas, showers, restrooms, and parking.In the summer there are water sports and attractions for the kids. You can enjoy a buffet breakfast from the beach cafeteria and if you keep Shabbat you can pre-order food for the Sabbath. You can rent mattresses and chairs from the cafeteria as well. The beach is not serviced by a lifeguard. Price of camping (at time of publication) 150ILS per car for 24 hours.Bereniki BeachStretching for over 2.5 km to the west of the Sea of Galilee this is a quiet beach near Tiberias which is popular with Israeli families and youths. It has shady trees, night lighting, showers (cold water only), restrooms, cafeteria, tables, umbrellas, chairs (no charge), BBQ stands, and campers are allowed to play music.There is a small area which is serviced by a lifeguard and swimming is only allowed in this area from 9 am to 5 pm. The rest of the beach is an unofficial beach and swimming is at your own risk. The beach is wheelchair-friendly. Here as with many of the camp beaches, you pay for the parking rather than the camping. It costs 5.9ILS for each of the first 3 hours and 2.1 for each hour after that so 24 hours camping would cost you 61.8ILS.Shores of the Sea of Galilee, Israel.Photo credit: © ShutterstockDugit BeachThis campsite is located on the northeastern side of the Sea of Galilee and is considered one of the most beautiful beaches surrounded by a picturesque forest. Here you can canoe, sail and partake of other water sports. There is room for tents, a mini-market, cafeteria, and restaurant. There are cold water showers, restrooms, lighting, and lifeguard service. Playing loud music and even bringing loudspeakers into the area is strictly forbidden. Here (like most of the Sea of Galilee campgrounds) you pay for the parking (62ILS for 24 hours) and can then camp. The fee is by the hour. The campsite is wheelchair accessible and chairs and tables can be rented.Gofra BeachOffering room for up to 300 tents this campground on the eastern shore of the lake 2km north of Ein Gev has restrooms, showers, a mini-market, cafeteria, camping equipment, small refrigerators for rent, playgrounds, and moorings for boats. The facilities and accommodation options are expansive. The site only operates during the spring and summer.There is daily cleaning of the beach, lifeguard service, BBQ stands, and a beautiful 1,500-meter long beach, and a small forest. Access to the beach is only on foot. This campsite is suitable for caravans or you could rent one of their caravans for 250ILS for 24 hours. You can even rent a tent which has 6 mattresses, chairs, and tables.View of the Sea of Galilee.Photo credit: © ShutterstockGreen BeachThis is a Blue Flag beach and one of the most beautiful in the area. This beach-park campground is 3km north of Nof Ginossar on the northwestern side of the Sea of Galilee. It is a well-kept beach with lawns up to the sand and shady trees. There are parking, showers, restrooms, camping tables, lighting, and a convenience store.The park operates year-round. Animals, jet skis, sound systems, and generators are prohibited. It is possible to rent tents, mattresses, tables, and chairs. One tent, a table, and 4 chairs will cost you 245ILS for the night. You can bring your caravan to this campsite or rent one (750ILS-1799ILS). The campground offers several deals like tent, mattress, chair, table, and breakfast for 119ILS per person.Haon BeachThe campsite is next to the Haon Holiday Village, south of Kibbutz Haon and the beach is shared by guests of the Holiday Village and campers. The beach runs for 1km and there is a lifeguard service. There are restrooms, showers, tables, benches, umbrellas, refrigerator rental, electrical outlets, and BBQ stands. There is wheelchair access to the campsite but no organized wheelchair access to the water.Camping supplies.Photo by Brina Blum on UnsplashJordan-Kinneret BeachThis beach runs for 0.5km and is a family beach campground. For this reason, it is a quieter beach than others and amplifying sound systems are prohibited. Playing music (not using an amplifier) is allowed from 8 am to 11 pm. There is no lifeguard service. The campground offers restrooms, showers (with 24 hours hot water), picnic tables, a mini-market, refrigerator rental, lighting, and a place to recharge mobile phones. The campsite is not suitable for wheelchair access.Lavnun BeachThe Lavnun Beach is a string of three beaches together with Halukim and Kursi so there are three areas for pitching a tent. The site offers water sports (kayaks, water skiing, paddle boats, etc). You will find drinking water, a place to wash your dishes, ball courts, a restaurant, cold water showers, a place to recharge mobile phones, and an exciting, young atmosphere.This beach is popular with the young Israeli crowds so expect plenty of noise especially during the Israeli holidays. Israeli teens like to camp here and bring their karaoke machines, so expect an all-night party. There is a lifeguard service but limited wheelchair access. Cost is approximately 70ILS for 24 hours for parking and camping.Water sports at the Sea of Galilee. Photo credit: © ShutterstockSussita BeachJust north of Ein Gev this beach is about 0.5km long on the eastern shore of the Sea of Galilee and is managed by the Ein Gev Kibbutz. It is named after a car that used to be produced in Israel and has sentimental significance for a lot of Israelis. This is an unofficial beach so there is no lifeguard service and swimming is not allowed.The campground operates from April to the end of October. Groups camping on the grass area near the beach should be pre-arranged but you can pitch your tent on the beach as well. There are tables, restrooms, shade, lighting, showers, and a cafeteria. The beach is not wheelchair-friendly as there are 11 steps down from the parking lot to the beach. The cost of camping here is 100ILS per car.Tzinbari BeachThis is one of the Kinneret’s most famous beaches and campsites, it is a venue for many summer festivals. The beach runs for 1km and there is a lifeguard service in a small central area from 9 am to 5 pm. Here you will find water slides, a baby's pool, electrical outlets, lighting, a place to pitch your tent, indoor lodging, beach umbrellas, shade, chairs, locker rooms, cold water showers, a place to recharge mobile phones.There are also restrooms, water sports, lighting, a restaurant, loads of parking, and wheelchair access is limited due to stones and pebbles plus reaching the water requires going down several steps. Amplified sound systems are not allowed in the southern part of the area which is indicated by signs.Sunset view at the shores of Kinneret. Photo credit: © Shutterstock

As with other Christian communities across the globe Israeli Christians celebrate the traditional religious holidays although as a Jewish country the Christian holidays are not national holidays. If you want to enjoy Christian holidays in Israel you should head for the largest Christian communities which congregate in Nazareth, Jerusalem and Bethlehem. Israel is home to a number of Christian denominations including Greek Orthodox, Roman Catholic, Armenian Orthodox, Syrian Orthodox, Ethiopians and Copts as well as other smaller denominations. Sometimes the denominations celebrate the Christian holidays on different days and have additional holy days unique to their faith.Lighting candles in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinChristmas in IsraelChristmas in Israel is observed by most Christians on December 25th. Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas on January 6th– 7th 2014 with a procession from Jerusalem’s Old City to the Monastery of Mar Elias and on to the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem where midnight services are held. Armenians celebrate Christmas on January 19th.Holy Week in IsraelHoly Week begins with the celebration of Christ's triumphal entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, culminating in the commemoration of the Mystical or Last Supper on Holy or Maundy Thursday and the Passion of Jesus on Holy or Good Friday. Holy Week concludes with Christ's repose in death and descent into Hades on Good or Holy Saturday.Palm Sunday in IsraelPalm Sunday in Israel is celebrated by Catholics and Protestant Christians who walk from the Mount of Olives down into the Old City as they sing and hold palm fronds. The Orthodox and Armenian communities together with other Christian denominations enjoy a Palm Sunday procession through the Church of the Holy Sepulchre with palm fronds. A priest taking part in the Palm Sunday Procession. Photo byGrant WhittyonUnsplashGood Friday in IsraelGood Friday in Israel sees Christians following the Via Dolorosa through Jerusalem’s Old City. Other ceremonies are held at the Garden Tomb.Holy Saturday in IsraelHoly Saturday sees the Patriarch perform the Ceremony of the Holy Fire as he lights a candle in the tomb and soon the church is full of Christians holding lit candles.Easter in IsraelEaster Sunday the Orthodox Armenian and Catholic communities attend mass in churches across the country including the Holy Sepulchre. Protestants attend the Sunrise Service at the Garden Tomb in Jerusalem. Easter Monday at Emmaus is marked by masses in various Catholic churches and some pilgrims make the 30km walk from Jerusalem to Emmaus-Latrun for mass. More information on Easter celebrations in Israel can be found in the articles Easter in Jerusalem and Easter in Israel.Ascension Day in IsraelAscension Day is celebrated by Catholics at the Chapel of the Ascension, a midnight mass continues until morning followed by a procession to ViriGalilaei Church and back. Pentecost is celebrated 50 days after Easter when the Holy Spirit descended upon the Apostles.Exaltation of the Holy Cross is celebrated by Catholics with mass at Calvary in the Holy Sepulchre; an Orthodox evening procession goes from the Chapel of St. Helena in Deir el-Sultan to the Holy Sepulchre and the Armenians celebrate with morning Divine Liturgy in St. James Cathedral, Jerusalem.Garden Tomb, Jerusalem.Photo byJonny GiosonUnsplashOther Christian Holidays in IsraelIn addition to the above Christian holidays in Israel, Catholics celebrate many additional feast days and events including the Eve of Epiphany; the Feast of the Annunciation is celebrated with a procession through Nazareth to the Church of the Annunciation where vespers are held and mass the following day. The Visitation of the Virgin Mary is celebrated in Ein Kerem and Jerusalem culminating with a procession through the Christian Quarter; Nativity of St. John the Baptist; on Assumption Day Catholics gather at the Abbey of Dormitionon Mt. Zion; Nativity of Mary is celebrated with a mass at St. Anne’s Church in Jerusalem and the celebration of the Immaculate Conception.Additional Orthodox Christian holy days include the Feast of St. Basil; the Feast of St. Simeon is celebrated in the house of St. Simeon in Katamon, Jerusalem; the Dormition of Theotokos and the Nativity of Mary are celebrated in Jerusalem’s St. Anne’s Church. The Russian Orthodox Church celebrates the finding of the head of St. John the Baptist at the monastery on the Mount of Olives with morning services.The Ethiopian Orthodox Christian community celebrates Timkat in Jerusalem Old City’s Ethiopian Church. Many of the events mentioned for Orthodox Christians are observed by the Ethiopian community.In addition to the other Christian holidays, the Armenian community celebrates the Feast of St. James the Minor with a service in St. James Cathedral in Jerusalem; the Feast of St. Vartan the Warrior is celebrated with morning services in St. James Cathedral and the Feast of the Holy Cross of Varak is celebrated in the Holy Sepulchre.If you wish to bookChristian day tours in Israel or to join a Christian tour package, feel free to visitour websiteArmenian Catholic Patriarchate, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © Shutterstock

Plan Your VisitOpen Times:Petra Archaeological Park is open from 06:00-18:00 and until 16:00 in winter. Prices: Entrance to the site is 90 JD. Pro Tip:Buy the Jordan Pass for a discount atPetra Archaeological Park.Average Visit Duration:The average time spent at the Winged Lion Temple is 30 min. Why so short? because you cannot access the remains or walk “inside” the temple.Popular Times:Generally speaking it is best to visit Petra in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the sun. There is no shade at the Winged Lion Temple.Special Events:There are no special events at the Winged Lion Temple but you could enjoy the Petra by Night show that takes place three nights a week in front of the Treasury. Relevant Tours:The Winged Lion Temple can be included in an organized Petra tour from Israel Petra. Make sure you'll take a 2-day tour so you'll have the time to see this gem of ancient splendor, without missing more famous spots such as the Petra Treasury.The Temple of the Winged Lion is one of the free-standing Nabataean structures in Petra Jordan. It was not carved out of the red-hued rock cliffs of Petra like most of the ancient city. It was constructed during the reign of NabateanKing Aretas IV (9 BC-40 AD) and was part of a temple complex at the end of Petra’s Colonnaded Street that includesQasr al-Bint, and theGreat Temple.The Temple of the Winged Lions (Image source: Fallaner CC BY-SA 4.0)Pro Tip:Stand at the Winged Lions Temple for great shots of Petra. Although experts aren’t sure which god was worshiped here, they think it may have been the goddess al-Uzza. One of the most precious finds during the excavation of the temple was an “eye-stele”, a stone slab featuring a pair of eyes. On the stele was inscribed “Goddess of Hayyan, Son of Nayibat". The main reason to include the Winged Lion Temple in your Petra visit is that it is free-standing and different from the other rock-hewn Petra structures.History of the Petra Winged Lion TempleThe temple was used for worship at the beginning of the 1st century AD. At the time a bridge would have crossed the wadi and connected the temple to the Colonnaded Street. The temple remained in use until the 363 AD earthquake. Like the rest of Petra, the temple was forgotten for many years. It was only when explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt rediscovered Petra in 1812 that Westerners became aware of the hidden archaeological gem. Many parts of Petra were excavated and the city was slowly uncovered one structure at a time.The temple's columnsIt was only in 1973 that the temple was discovered using electronic sounding and excavation began, led by archaeologist Dr.Philip C. Hammond. The winged lions featured on the column capitals inspired the name of the site. Excavations continued until 2005 and today further exploration of the site is underway. The remains of the temple have given researchers insight into the religious life and customs of the Nabataeans.What to See at the Temple of the Winged Lion, PetraGrand EntranceAs you approach the temple you’ll see a grand entrance with a double colonnade that continues for 85 meters leading to a porch that is 9.5 meters long. The entrance is flanked by large 13-meter-high columns.The beauty of the Temple of the Winged LionsInner Chamber (Cella)Through the entrance is a 100m² antechamber or entrance room typical of Greco-Roman temples in Israel and Jordan. The inner chamber or cella is flanked by columns.Temple InteriorIn the main area of the temple’s interior, there are the remains of twelve columns with capitals featuring winged lion figures. At the far end of the chamber are stairs to a raised platform where priests would have made sacrifices on the altar. The wall behind the altar has niches that once held stone idols and religious objects. When it was first built the inner temple walls would have been adorned with paintings and stucco decoration. But in the years that followed the structure was repurposed and the artwork was wiped out.Temple WorkshopsOn the western side of the temple interior is a complex of small “rooms” where workmen would have created paintings, metalwork, and stonework. They would have produced figurines from marble, bronze, and iron, as well as painted ceramics, and aromatic oils for the temple and for export.

The Petra Archaeological Park in Jordan is home to many fascinating historical sites, and no visitor should miss the Petra Byzantine Church. This ancient building - dates back to the 5th century - is a popular attraction for visitors who are interested in history, culture, and religion. Oh, and don't forget the beautiful mosaics!The Petra Byzantine church, also known as the Petra Church (by Bernard Gagnon CC BY-SA 1.0)History of the Byzantine ChurchThe Church was built in the 5th century AD, during the Byzantine era. It was originally a small chapel, later expanded to become a larger church. It was constructed using local sandstone and adorned with beautiful mosaics and frescoes.The Byzantine Church is believed to have been dedicated to St. Elijah, a prophet from the Old Testament who was revered by early Christians. It was an important pilgrimage site for Christians in the region, and it was also used for baptisms and other religious ceremonies.Mosaics at the Petra Byzantine Church (by David Stanley CC BY 2.0)During the Islamic period, the Church was abandoned and left in disrepair. It was not until the 20th century that the site was rediscovered and restored. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the Byzantine Church and gain a better understanding of the history and culture of the region.What to See and Do in the Petra Byzantine ChurchVisitors can explore the ruins and take in the beauty of the site. The church is located on a hill overlooking the Petra Archaeological Park, providing visitors with stunning views of the surrounding area. The church is also adorned with beautiful mosaics and frescoes, which are well-preserved and provide a glimpse into the art and culture of the Byzantine era.Amazing photo ops? right here, at the Petra Church (by Guillaume Baviere CC BY 2.0)Many visitors also come to the Byzantine Church to experience the spiritual energy of the site. The church was an important pilgrimage site for early Christians, and many people believe that the site is still imbued with holy energy. Many travelers take a moment to reflect and connect with their faith.ProTip: The Byzantine Church is also a popular spot for photography, with many visitors capturing the stunning views and intricate details of the church. Try catching The ruins of the church provide a unique backdrop for photos, and visitors can create lasting memories of their time at this remarkable site.The Ridge ChurchAnother Christian house of worship, dates back to the 3rd century CE. The Ridge Church combined classic Nabatean architecture with Roman influences, and researchers believe it remained active later than the rest of Petra's churches – even after it was damaged in the 363 CE earthquake. Located 120 meters northwest of the Byzantine Church, it offers great views of the Petra Archeological Park. You'll be able to catch the whole Royal Tombs area in a single shot.The Blue ChurchThis Church got its name from the granite columns used to support it, believed to be of Egyptian origin. It was destroyed and rebuilt, and like its neighbors – the Byzantine church and the Ridge Church – offers awesome photo ops for visitors.The Royal TombsThe lost Nabatean City had many prominent sovereigns, all given exceptional palace-like burial facilities carved into the rock wall. Don't miss the giant Urn Tomb which presents incredible views of the city, the multicolor Silk Tomb, and the magnificent Palace Tomb. These spots are ideal for everybody who adores ancient architecture, and Indiana Jones movies; if you come across levers on the walls, remember: never touch any!Plan Your VisitOpening Times:Summer 06:00-18:00; Winter 06:00-16:00.Prices:90 JOD, but travelers who join a Petra tour from Israel will have the entrance price included in their price.Pro Tip:If you’re not visiting Petra with a guided tour, buy the Jordan Pass for a discount to the Petra Archaeological Park.Average Visit Duration:20-30 minutes,Popular Times:The best time to visit Petra is in the early morning or late afternoon.Special Events:A magnificent candlelight spectacle takes place in front of the Treasury on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 20:30. The path leading towards the Treasury and the Treasury itself is lit up with over 1,500 candles. The show features bedouin music, a light show, and tea.Relevant Tours:APetra 1-Day Tourwon't leave you with enough time to see the Petra Church. But note that thePetra Archeological Parkholds many marvelous attractions, you just won't reach unless you plan a2-day Petra tour. That way you could see MUCH more, such as the amazingPetra Monastery, andQasr Al-Bint temple. With aPetra tour from Tel Aviv, you’ll see two countries on one trip.

When you visit the Petra Archaeological Park, don’t miss the Temple of Qasr Al-Bint. It is one of the best preserved of Petra’s ancient structures; This unique monument has the largest facade in Petra, making it a popular photo op.Qasr Al-Bint temple(by ChrisYunker CC BY 2.0) The Temple of Qasr al-Bint is one of the few free-standing structures in Petra that was not carved out of the sandstone cliffs. Qasr al-Bint is also known as the Temple of Dushara as it may have been dedicated to the important Nabataean god, Dushara.History of the Qasr al Bint TempleThe temple was built by the Nabataeans around 30 BC and dedicated to Nabataean gods. It was one of the most important Petra temples. It was built on a raised podium and originally stood 23 meters high. Qasr al-Bint had a grand marble staircase of 27 steps leading up to the entrance. Inside there was a vestibule, chamber, altar, and cella where the image of a god would have been placed. The structure was decorated with plaster and stone reliefs.The temple's entrance(by Derpierreder CC BY-SA 4.0)Pro Tip: You can see some of the reliefs that once adorned the Qasr al-Bint temple at the Petra Visitor Center. Experts think that this would have been Petra’s main place of worship and that the entire surrounding area would have been part of a religious complex. An enclosing wall would have encircled the complex and two inscriptions tell us that during king Aretas IV’s reign (9BC-40AD) seats were added.Later the structure was repurposed by the Romans for cult worship and eventually it was destroyed in the 3rd century AD. Excavation of Qasr Al-BInt began in the late 50s and is still underway. Today we know this structure as Qasr Al-Bint or Qasr al-Bint al-Faroun, a name given to the structure by the local Bedouin meaning Castle of the Pharaoh’s Daughter. Legend has it that the pharaoh who chased the Israelites out of Egypt got tired of pursuing them and eventually settled in Petra. The legend is not based on facts but does make the Castle of the Daughter of Pharaoh a little more romantic.Where is Qasr Al-Bint?This Petra temple lies almost at the end of the main trail through the Archaeological Park, northwest of the Great Temple and southwest of the Temple of the Winged Lions. Pro Tip: The Basin, the only restaurant in Petra Archaeological Park is next to Qasr Al-Bint. The food is great, but it is a bit pricey.Qasr al-Bint, from the High Place of Sacrifice in Petra (by Bernard Gagnon CC BY-SA 3.0)You’ll find Qasr al-BInt if you follow the main trail through Petra from the Petra Visitor Center, pass the Petra Treasury, and on up the colonnaded street. Keep going and you will reach Qasr Al-Bint before the path that leads to the Petra Monastery.Pro Tip: If you’re a hiker you can take the Umm Al-Biyara Trail from Qasr al-Bint. It is a difficult trail but you’ll get some amazing bird’s eye views of Petra. The Jabal Haroun Trail also starts at Qasr Al-Bint and is probably Petra’s hardest hiking trail.Suggested Route to Qasr Al-BintVisitor Center-Siq-Treasury-High Place of Sacrifice-Roman Theater-Royal Tombs-Colonnaded Street-Great Temple-Byzantine Church-Qasr Al-Bint.If you are on a two-day Petra tour you can split this suggested itinerary in two and add the Monastery.What to See and Do at Qasr al BintQasr al Bint FacadeThe temple has a square base and stands on a 3-meter-high raised platform with a flight of stairs leading up to the entrance. The wide stairs span the entire front of the facade and would have been covered with marble slabs. This temple at Petra has a facade that is 4 meters wider thanthe famous Treasuryand the Great Temple of Petra.Pro Tip:For a great shot of the temple crouch down in front of the facade and get a view of the temple above the stairs.Columns of Qasr Al-BintAt the top of the entrance stairs, you can see the remains of four columns. The column spacing is about 8 meters compared to the distance between the columns ofthe Artemis Temple at Jerashwhich is only 4.9 meters, and the column spacing in the Hercules Temple inAmmanwhich is 5.18 meters. Each of the sections of the Qasr al Bint columns must have weighed about 7 tons and required incredible engineering and manpower to get them into place.Pro Tip:Spot the square structure in front of Qasr Al-Bint which could have been a separate structure or a marble-covered altar.Plan Your VisitOpening Times: Petra Archaeological Park's open hours are 06:00-18:00 in summer and 06:00-16:00 in winter.Prices: 90 DOJ. If you are on a Petra tour from Israel the admission price will be included in the tour. Pro Tip: If you’re not visiting Petra with a guided tour, buy the Jordan Pass for a discount at Petra Archaeological Park.Average Visit Duration: The average time spent at the Qasr Al-Bint Temple is 30-40 min.Popular Times: Petra is a large site so to fit everything into one day you need to start early in the morning.Special Events: Petra at Night is a dazzling candlelight spectacle that takes place in the Petra Archaeological Park on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 20:30 in front of the Treasury. Relevant Tours:If you haveone day in Petrayou won't be able to include Qasr al-Bint; the temple is rather far from the entrance. But with atwo-day Petra tour, you will see more of the site, and have time to soak up the atmosphere. Join aPetra tour from Tel Avivif you want to see two countries on one trip.

The High Place of Sacrifice is one of the most significant historical and cultural sites in the Petra Archaeological Park. This place - sacred for ancient Nabateans and modern Christians alike - has captivated the imagination of visitors for centuries and has been a crucial spot for cultural, and spiritual practices for over two millennia.History of the High Place of SacrificeThis site was used for sacrificial rituals and is believed to have been dedicated to the gods of the Nabateans, the ancient Arab tribe who built Petra. Visitors can still see evidence of these practices in the many niches carved into the rock, which once held sacred offerings.The High Place of Sacrifice (by Dosseman CC BY-SA 4.0)the Nabateans, a polytheistic culture, worshiped many deities, including Dushara - the main god of the tribe - and Al Uzza, the goddess of prosperity and fertility.Archeologists found remains of grain, as well as sheep, goats, and other farm animals, sacrificed in Nabatean rituals.Additionally, the High Place of Sacrifice is an important pilgrimage site for Christians, who believe that it was used by the Prophet Aaron, brother of Moses, as a place of worship. Many Christian visitors also come to the site to experience the spiritual energy of the place and connect with their faith.Where is the High Place of Sacrifice?Located on the top of the cliff shadowing the Petra Theater, getting to the High Place of Sacrifice is an adventure in itself - but the journey is just as breathtaking as the destination.The views definitely worth your efforts (by Michael Gunther CC BY-SA 3.0)The site is accessible through a hike from the main Petra pathway, throughWadi Al-Farasa. This valley is a scenic route that takes visitors through rugged terrain and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.The hike to the High Place of Sacrifice takes around 1-2 hours, depending on the pace of the hiker and the time of day.Tourists hike to the High Place of Sacrifice It is advisable to start the hike early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat. The trail is well-marked, but visitors should wear sturdy shoes, as the terrain can be rough in places.What to See and Do at the High Place of SacrificeThe High Place of Sacrifice offers some of the most amazing views in the entire Petra Archeological Park, and since the path isn't for everybody, you'll find fewer tourists around you once you'll get there.The way to the High Place of Sacrifice is filled with tombs (by Dosseman CC BY-SA 4.0) The way to the High Place of Sacrifice offers several nice stops: Wadi Al-Farasa, on the way to the place of sacrifice, is a valley filled with tombs carved into its walls. Some of these, like the Soldier Tomb and the Colored Triclinium, have lovely columns and facades. The northwest entrance to the Wadi path is close to some of the park's other popular attractions, which you shouldn't miss:Qasr Al-Bint TempleThis large, rectangular temple has a square base and stands on a 3-meter-high raised platform with a flight of stairs leading up to the entrance. Qasr Al-Bint has a facade 4 meters wider than the famous Petra Treasury and the Great Temple of Petra - making it a great photography spot.Pro Tip: For a great shot of the temple crouch down in front of the facade and get a view of the temple above the stairs.Qasr Al-bint TempleThe Great Temple of PetraThis complex of worship was completed in the early 1st century, by order of Aretas IV, one of the greatest Nabatean kings. The Great Temple of Petra used to be about 20 meters tall, and you can still see how elaborate its halls, temples, and holy groves were In ancient times. Pro Tip: This temple is elevated enough to offer great views of its surroundings, and get a nice picture of the Royal Tombs area to the East.Plan Your VisitOpening Times:Petra Archaeological Park's open hours are 06:00-18:00 in summer and 06:00-16:00 in winter.Prices:90 DOJ. If you are on a Petra tour from Israel the admission price will be included in the tour.Pro Tip:If you’re not visiting Petra with a guided tour, buy the Jordan Pass for a discount at Petra Archaeological Park.Average Visit Duration:The way to the High Place of Sacrifice takes up to 2 hours.Popular Times:Petra is a large site so to fit everything into one day you need to start early in the morning.Special Events:Petra at Night is a dazzling candlelight spectacle that takes place in the Petra Archaeological Park on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 20:30 in front of the Treasury.Relevant Tours:If you haveone day in Petrayou won't be able to include the High Place of Sacrifice; the shrine area is pretty far from the entrance. But with atwo-day Petra tour, you will see more of the area, and have time to soak up the atmosphere. Join aPetra tour from Tel Avivif you want to see two countries on one trip.

Plan Your VisitOpen Times:Petra Archaeological Park's open times in summer are 06:00-18:00 and in winter it closes at 16:00.Prices: Admission to the Petra Archaeological Park is 90 JD, but travelers who join aPetra tour from Israelwill have the entrance price included in their tour.Average Visit Duration: The average time spent in Petra is 4-5 hours but if you plan on hiking to the Garden Temple you will need to move very fast through the main part of Petra, or make it a two-day visit.Popular Times: The best time to visit Petra’s Garden Temple is early morning or late afternoon.Special Events: The Petra by Night evening candlelight spectacle is a sight to behold.It takes place on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 20:30. The show features Bedouine music, a light show, and tea.Relevant Tours: On a tour of Petra you will see the most important and most impressive sites but to visit the Garden Temple you should take a private Petra tour or just stay longer, and opt for 2 days in Petra;Usually, the first day of the tour is guided and on the second day, you are left to explore on your own and visit the Garden Temple. You can also get to Petra from Israel on your own.The Garden Temple at Petra in Jordan has also been called the Garden Tomb and the Garden Triclinium because for a long time, experts were unsure of the role this structure played in Nabataean society. Welcome to the Garden Temple (Image source: Bernard Gagnon CC BY-SA 2.0)The structure was built by the Nabateanpeople in the 1st century AD. Today it is part of thePetra Archaeological Parkwhich covers the expansive Nabataean city and its many structures that were hewn into the surrounding cliffs.Gardens and Water in the DesertAfter extensive research, experts concluded that the Garden Temple was not a burial site and not a temple. It had a secular function. It might have been a residential dwelling surrounded by the greenery of Wadi Farasa East. Thanks to the ingenious water system created by the Nabataeans, they had an abundance of water despite being in the middle of the desert. The Garden Temple is close to a large cistern that connects to the channels and basins of the ancient water system so their garden could have remained watered and green year-round.Pro Tip: Spot the 8-meter stone wall next to the Garden Temple which may have been a retaining wall that formed part of a water reservoir or cistern.The view from the Garden TempleThe Garden Temple’s proximity to the cistern and its lack of burial niches has led experts to believe that the structure may have been part of Petra’s water system. Perhaps the people in charge of the water supply stayed here or ran the system from the Garden Temple.The Gardens of PetraThe upper area of Wadi Farasa East was named Garden Valley in 1904 by explorer Gustaf Dalman. He came across a cool valley where flowers bloomed and the grass grew green and so he named it Garden Valley.Where is the Petra Garden Temple?When you are on a Petra tour or visiting the Petra Archaeological Park independently, you can find the Garden Temple located in Wadi Farasa, a canyon on the southeastern outskirts of Petra at the foot of Jabal al-Madhbah where the High Place of Sacrifice stands. You can visit the Garden Tomb and other sites in Wadi Farasa East after descending from the High Sacrifice Place along the west face of Jabal al-Madhbah.Why You Should Visit the Garden Tomb in PetraIf you want to get away from the crowds and see parts of Petra that are less famous yet just as impressive then go the extra mile to visit Wadi Farasa East. Here you can quietly explore several structures cut into the rocks of the valley and enjoy a little shade, thanks to the soaring cliffs on both sides of the wadi.The road to the Garden Temple (Image source: Jean Housen CC BY-SA 2.0) A visit to Petra’s Garden Temple will also give you a better idea of the immense size of the Nabataean city which is much larger than the well-trodden tourist area along the Street of Facades. The Garden Temple also gives you a new perspective because it is one of the few Petra structures where you can actually enter the chamber inside the rock. Pro Tip: Get an Insta-worthy shot from inside the Garden Temple looking out to the wadi.The Hike to Petra’s Garden TempleThe hike takes at least 3 hours and begins at the Collonaded Street of Petra. Follow the path up to the High Place of Sacrifice.Pro Tip: This is one of the best lookout points for views across Petra. Then continue to Wadi Farasa. You will see the Lion Monument, Garden Tomb, the Roman Soldier‘s Tomb, Renaissance Tomb, and Broken Pediment Tomb. At the far end of the wadi, you will reach Zantur Hill (where excavations are ongoing) and Pharaoh’s Column. Finally, you will arrive at Qasr al-Bint.This is where you can take a rest at one of the restaurants near Qasr al-Bint. This hike is recommended for your second day in Petra when you have already seen the main sites. It can also be visited with a private Petra tour.

As the name suggests, “Little Petra” is like Petra but smaller! also known as Siq al-Barid, it is much smaller than the main Petra Archaeological Park, and it also has fewer structures and fewer tourists. Little Petra can be visited on its own or as part of your trip to Petra. Note that Little Petra is also an alternative entrance to the main Petra Archaeological Park. Welcome to Little Petra, JordanLike the main Petra site, Little Petra was created by the Nabataeans about 2,000 years ago and has facades hewn from the cliffs and chambers dug into the rock. Experts are unsure about the purpose of these structures but they believe that Little Petra was perhaps a residential suburb of the larger Petra. Little Petra may have housed visiting traders passing through Petra along the ancient trade routes from Arabia to Syria and beyond.ProTip: The Arabic name, Siq al-Barid means cold canyon, and its location in a narrow gorge means it doesn’t get much sun, so pack a warm jacket.History of Little Petra, JordanIn the 1st century AD, the Nabataeans expanded their growing city by building into the rock cliffs of Little Petra. After the decline of the Nabataeans Little Petra was abandoned and forgotten just like the larger city of Petra in the 7th century.Ancient structures in Little PetraIn the west people had heard of the Lost City of Petra but they were unable to visit the region while it was under Islamic rule. In 1812 Swiss explorer Jacob Burckhardt reached Petra but he didn’t report seeing Little Petra. Between the 1950s and 1983 archaeologists were working on further excavations north of the main site of Petra when they came across Little Petra.In a later exploration of the site in 2010 a chamber was discovered that still had Nabataean decorative frescos. The frescoes depict grapes, vines, and cherubs in the Hellenistic style. This is the only surviving example of Nabataean interior art in situ.In 1985 Petra became a UNESCO World Heritage Site together with Beidha and Little Petra.Where is Little Petra, and how to get thereLittle Petra is located about 8 km north of Wadi Musa. It can be reached via a small road that stretches around Petra from Wadi Musa and through the Bedouin village of Umm Sayhoun. Pro Tip: Go a little further and explore the Neolithic site of Beidha.What to See and Do in Little PetraLittle Petra SiqLike its bigger namesake, Little Petra is entered through a narrow canyon. Along the way, the canyon widens at several points where you can see temples carved in the cliffs with rock-cut steps leading to the entrances.After the first Nabataean dwellings, the canyon narrows again and continued for about 50 meters to an open area. Here you will find the highest concentration of structures.Stairs of the little Siq, Little PetraTriciniaThere are four tricliniums, a Greco-Roman style formal dining area with seating on three sides. This area may have been used to entertain merchants.Little Petra BicliniumThe Biclinium or dining room is where you can see rare Nabataean frescoes on the back wall and ceiling of the chamber. The paintings have earned the Bicinium the name the Painted Room. The paintings show the Nabataean connection to the Dionysiac religion. Experts believe that the paintings date back to about 40BC-25AD. The Painted Biclinium has a flight of rock-cut stairs leading up to the opening that accesses two connected chambers. The first larger chamber has stone benches on both sides of the entrance.Little Petra biclinium On the south wall of the first chamber are stucco decorative architectural embellishments. The second smaller chamber has a vaulted ceiling and paintings of small animals, birds, vines, flowers, and cherubs. The paintings depict local flora and fauna as well as grape cultivation that took place in the valley 2000 years ago. One of the most important elements of these paintings that makes them unique is the depiction of human figures.CisternThis ancient cistern is what remains of a complex ingenious water system devised by the Nabataeans.ViewpointThis is the best place to get a birds-eye view of the wadi. From the western end of Little Petra, there are steps carved into a hill that leads up to a hilltop. From here you can get panoramic views of Petra.ProTip: You can continue for another 6 km from this elevated viewpoint down a rough path to ad-Deir in the Petra Archaeological Park. If you are not continuing into the Petra archaeological Park then you need to double back and retrace your steps back to the car park.Plan Your VisitOpen Times: Little Petra and the Petra Archaeological Park are both open from 06:00-18:00 in summer and 06:00-16:00 in winter. Stay up-to-date with COVID regulations in Jordan. If you're getting there by car, note that there is a convenient parking lot at the Little Petra entrance. Prices: Little Petra and the Petra Archaeological Park are operated separately. Little Petra has no entrance fee and is free. However, there is an entrance fee of 90JD to the Petra Archaeological Park which can be entered via Little Petra. If you are on a Petra tour from Israel the admission price to the Petra Archaeological Park will be included in the tour. ProTip: If you’re not visiting Petra with a guided tour then buy the Jordan Pass for a discount at Petra Archaeological Park.Average Visit Duration: The average time spent at Little Petra is 1-2 hours.Popular Times: Get there as early as possible to enjoy Little Petra with very few tourists. If you plan on visiting Petra Archaeological Park and Little Petra on the same day you will need to move at a fast pace as there is a lot to see. But if you take a 2-day Petra Tour, you could visit the main park on the first day and Little Petra on the second. Pro Tip: From Little Petra, you can continue to Wadi Rum or enter Petra Archaeological Park.Special Events: Petra at Night is a candlelight spectacle in the Petra Archaeological Park on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 20:30 in front of the Treasury. There is no similar show in Little Petra.Relevant Tours: If you have one day in Petra you should probably focus on the main Petra site and this is why most visitors recommend a longer trip. Join a Petra tour from Israel if you want to see two countries on one trip.

The magnificent Royal Tombs are carved into one continual cliff face along the western face of Jabal al-Khubtha that rises above the center of the Petra Archaeological Park. These large mausoleums were the tombs of Nabataean kings over 2,300 years ago. In a few minutes, you'll know everything you'll need to make your visit to the tombs exceptional and unforgettable.History of the Royal Tombs of PetraThe Royal Tombs date back to the first half of the 1st century AD. The size and decoration of these Petra tombs indicated that they belonged to rich and powerful Nabataeanians, possibly Petra royalty.Welcome to the Petra Royal Tombs! The Urn Tomb may have belonged to Petra King Malchus II. The Nabataeanians had been in Petra since about the 3rd century BC, so by the time these tombs were built Petra had been exposed to Hellenistic architectural ideas. This is seen in the blend of eastern and western architectural traditions.What to See and Do at the Royal Tombs PetraUrn TombThe first of the Urn Tombs is built high on the mountainside and has a 26 by 16.49-meter facade. To reach it you will have to hike up a flight of stairs. A large colonnaded courtyard stands in front of the tomb. If you'll look carefully at the rear wall, you'll see an inscription carved into the stone recording the consecration of the tomb as a church in 447 AD.The Urn Tomb in Petra (by Bernard Gagnon CC BY-SA 3.0)Pro Tip: Get amazing shots overlooking Petra from the courtyard. It is thought to have been the tomb of Petra King Aretas IV, or King Malchus II who died in 70AD. A row of columns lines the front courtyard and a doorway leads into the main chamber. Look above the doorway to see the openings of three burial chambers. In the large main chamber, you can see three asps or semi-circular niches that were added to the structure when it was repurposed into a church during the Byzantine period.Silk TombThe Silk Tomb stands alongside the Urn Tomb. It is smaller but gets a lot of attention because of the sandstone’s rich color. The dramatic pigment makes it one of the most popular photo ops in Petra - and a must-see for every visitor.The Silk Tomb. Just look at these colors!Corinthian TombNext in line after the Urn Tomb and Silk Tomb is the Corinthian Tomb, fittingly named for the Corinthian-style pilasters (columns that are not free-standing but carved onto the side of the cliff or wall). If this tomb had been better preserved, it might have rivaled the famous Treasury of Petra. It has a facade measuring 27.55 meters wide and 26 meters high. Spot the four water basins in front and on the side of the tomb, used for ritual cleansing. Inside the tomb are four chambers.The Palace Tomb PetraThe broad facade of the Palace Tomb is three stories high and is intended to resemble the facade of Nero’s palace in Rome. In front of the facade is a large courtyard and stage. This area might have been used for funeral ceremonies.Pro Tip:For the best shot of all the tombs standing beside each other go across the valley opposite the tombs.Left to Right: the Palace Tomb, the Corinthian Tomb, and the Silk Tomb(by David Stanley CC BY 2.0)Plan Your VisitOpening Times: the Petra Archaeological Park is open from 06:00-18:00 in summer and until 16:00 in winter. Prices: There is a 90 JOD admission fee to the Petra Archaeological Park. For visitors on a Petra tour from Israel, admission is included.Pro Tip: If you’re visiting Petra independently, buy the Jordan Pass for a discounted admission ticket to Petra Archaeological Park.Average Visit Duration: The average time spent at the Royal tombs is 60-120 min, this might vary if you are on a Petra tour.Popular Times: Try to get to the site early to avoid crowds and to cover all the essential Petra structures.Special Events: Petra By Night is a dazzling candlelight spectacle that takes place in the Petra Archaeological Park on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 20:30 in front of the Treasury. Relevant Tours: If you took aone-day tour of Petrayou will be able to include a stop at the Royal Tombs. But to explore them in depth and see much more, it's better to choose atwo-day Petra tour. This way you won't miss the amazingPetra Monastery,Qasr Al-Binttemple,The Colonnaded Street, and include the Petra by Night show. With a Petra tour from Tel Aviv, you’ll see both countries on one trip.

The Petra Museum stands next to the Visitor Center at the entrance to the Petra Archaeological Park. This is a great place to see some of the most important finds made at Petra and learn more about the site's fascinating history.The Petra Museum (by Davide Mauro CC BY-SA 4.0)Visitors love to explore and discover the hidden mysteries of the Lost City through the museum's chronological exhibitions - from the Stone Age to the present day. Allow enough time to visit the (air-conditioned) museum before or after you enter the archaeological site to see the famous Petra Treasury; it will make your visit much more interesting.Pro Tip: There is an excellent museum store if you’d prefer to get your souvenirs from a shop rather than a street vendor.History of thePetra Archaeological MuseumThis museum is sometimes called the “new” Petra Museum because an earlier museum once stood inside the archaeological park. Work began on the Petra Museum in 2014 and it was completed in 2019. The museum is run by the Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority in collaboration with the Japanese Government. The museum was made possible thanks to a $7 million grant from Japan and the modern museum building was designed by Japanese architect Yamashita Sekkei.Where is the New Petra Museum?You’ll find the museum about 1.6km from the center of Wadi Musa, at the entrance to the Petra Archaeological Park next to the ticket office. It is about a 3-hour drive from Amman. The museum is open seven days a week. Pro Tip: The museum stays open later than the archeological park so it is best to visit the museum after your time at the archaeological site of Petra.The Museum also holds art representing structures such as The Petra Monastery pictured hereWhat to See at and Do the Petra MuseumAll of the galleries in thePetra Archaeological Museum are on the same level and with ramps so that the place is accessible to all visitors. Information is displayed in Arabic, English, and Japanese.The Rise and Fall of the Nabataean CivilizationThe museum explains Nabataean history through eight galleries. each displaying a part of Petra’s history - with about 3,000 artifacts on display. The exhibits will show you what made the Nabatean culture so great, why it settled in Petra, and how it eventually declined. Don't Miss the computer-generated imagery showing how the iconic Treasury was built. Not all the artifacts are from Petra; some have been excavated from surrounding areas. In addition to the Nabataean history and culture, you can also see Greco-Roman sculptures found in the region. Many of the pieces on display have only recently been discovered. See historic photographs from the explorers who first rediscovered Petra after the city had been “lost” for centuries.Bedouin Culture and HeritageLearn about Bedouin culture through traditional clothing, textiles, utensils, and detailed written explanations. The newest section of the museum is the Petra Life Exhibition for Traditional Heritage. Here you can experience the Bedouin way of life in a Bedouin tent, and see household items, pots, pans, agricultural equipment, traditional crafts such as weaving, and the system of weights and measures. Learn about the traditional medication and aromatic herbs used by the people of Petra, and about their annual celebrations. The museum gives you a glimpse into the people of Petra and Wadi Musa then and now, preserving and presenting cultural heritage elements to tourists.A Hellenistic exhibit in the Museum of PetraPro Tip: You don’t need a guide to visit the museum but it is worth using the audio guides that are available for 40 of the artifacts on display.Plan Your VisitOpening Times:The Petra Archaeological Museum is open April to October from 08:30-20:30 and November to March from 08:30-19:30. The museum closes for 6 days a year for maintenance.Prices: Admission to the Petra Museum is free. Pro Tip: Even though the museum is free, you still have to pay to enter the archaeological site at Petra. Buy the Jordan Pass for a discounted admission ticket to Petra or join a Petra tour for free entry.Average Visit Duration: The average time spent at the Petra Museum is 30-60min.Popular Times: Visit the museum before or after you enter the archaeological park. Pro Tip: As the museum stays open longer than the park, visit the museum at the end of the day. Alternatively, you could take advantage of the museum's air-conditioning and visit at the hottest time of day.Special Events: The museum shows occasional temporary exhibits on loan from other archeology museums. Relevant Tours:On aone-day tour of Petrayou will see the museum and some of Petra's hotspots, but not much else; If you take atwo-day Petra touryou could see MUCH more, such as the amazingPetra Monastery,Qasr Al-Binttemple,The Colonnaded Street, and include the Petra by Night show. With a Petra tour from Tel Aviv, you’ll see two countries on one trip.

Al-Balad is the downtown area of Jordan’s capital city, Amman. It is also the oldest part of the city and dates back thousands of years. It is surrounded by the seven hills of Amman, nestled tightly between the other neighborhoods of the city. You can see many fascinating attractions in the area as well as bustling markets. Looking down on Al Balad is the incredible Amman Citadel - another must-see for every visitor in Jordan. While exploring the lanes of Al Balad you’ll hear music, see locals going about their daily business, and you can visit some of the excellent and authentic local eateries. Al Balad is the real heart and soul of Amman and a true delight.History of Al Balad AmmanAl Balad was first inhabited around 6500 BC. And later the citadel was built on Citadel Hill overlooking Al Balad. By the 19th-20th century, the city had spread out onto the surrounding hills, and Al Balad remained the central meeting point where locals and traders would come to market their goods. As technology and engineering progressed in downtown Amman, Al Balad was connected by public transport to the rest of the city.Today it is still considered the market area and consists of several souqs (street markets). Here everything is sold from fresh produce to clothing and household items. If you want an authentic souvenir, you’ll probably find one in Al Balad. The downtown area is also known for its thriving restaurants.What to See and Do in Al Balad AmmanAs the city has grown around Al Balad it is surrounded by the city’s top attractions includingthe Jordan Museum, Umayyad Palace, the Amman Citadel,the Roman Theater, the Odeon, the Roman Nymphaeum, and Hashemite Plaza. The best way to discover Al Balad is just to wander through the labyrinth of lanes, and stop to taste some of the local cuisines or visit an interesting shop.Al Balad Market, AmmanHundreds of street vendors set up their stalls in Al Balad with a mix of products being sold across the downtown area. There is a specific souq for most sectors including furniture, food, hand-made clothing, and household goods. Pro Tip: There is an interesting Friday market run by Asian vendors who have made Amman their home.Al Husseini MosqueThe mosque stands in the middle of Al Balad dividing the downtown area into East and West. It was completed by King Abdullah I on the site of another mosque built by Omar Bin Al-Khattab in 640 CE. Locals say it's not only a place of worship but also a symbol of the city's history:Al Husseini was the first major architectural project in the kingdom, predating the Royal Palace and even the city's old markets. Pro Tip: just a 5-minute walk north to the Mosque you'll find the Al Habibah Sweet Shop, home of the best Knafeh in Amman. This middle eastern treat is so good it's almost addictive.Duke DiwanThe oldest residence in Al Balad was built in 1924 by Abdul Rahman Madi. Today it is a protected historical structure. The English-sounding name came from the benefactor Mamdouh Bisharat, the “Duke'' of Mukheibeh, and Diwan is Arabic for a house that is always open. The Duke can still be found here welcoming visitors and today the house is used for cultural events and exhibits. Duke Diwan is open from 09:00 to 19:00 and entrance is free although a donation is appreciated. You can find Duke Diwan on King Faisal Street.Pro Tip:Just a 2-minute walk northwest of Duke Diwan, you'll find reach one of the most popular casual eateries in Al Balad: Hashem restaurant, where you must try the delicious falafel. This famous establishment has been servicing everyone from the royal family and celebrities to local workers since 1952.Rainbow StreetAlthough this street has been hyped up so much that it has lost some of its lusters, it is still worth stopping by for a quick photo-op. The street has stairs each painted in a bright color of the rainbow. But in addition, Rainbow Street has cute boutique stores, galleries, the best restaurants, and some interesting stone houses. Pro Tip: Try the ice cream at Mr. Lollies; you won't be disappointed.Plan Your VisitOpening Hours:Shops in Al Balad are usually open about 09:00 or 10:00 until 22:00 at night, except for Friday when there are shorter open hours.Price: freeAverage Visit Duration: Plan to spend 2-3 hours at Al BaladPopular Visiting Times: 12:00, when all the shops are active, and before the local rush hour.Special Events:The Al Balad Music Festival is held throughout the city biannually, with plenty of shows, exhibits, and concerts. This is a place to explore on foot so wear comfortable shoesWhen you’re searching for info online about Al Balad don’t be confused with the Al Balad neighborhood in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.Al Balad is close to the marvelous Amman Citadel, where you can add some interesting ancient culture to your day.

The beautiful St. John the Baptist Church stands on a hilltop overlooking Madaba. The church was dedicated to St. John to mark the place where he is believed to have been beheaded.History of St. John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church at MadabaMadaba was first mentioned in the Bible when it was conquered by the Israelites along with the rest of Moab. The Bible mentions that the town was inhabited about 4,500 years ago and it is referred to as the Moabite town of Madaba. It features prominently in the Old Testament stories of Moses and the exodus.In the 1960s a girl’s school and nursery school were built alongside the church and in the 1990s a boy’s school and kindergarten were added. A library and other schools were added nearby in the early 2000s.This magnificent structure was built in 1913 and since then has been used as an active place of worship. In 1967 the Vatican recognized the church as belonging to the Patriarchate of Jerusalem and as a shrine for St. John the Baptist. Since getting recognized by the Pope, the church has become increasingly popular as a pilgrimage destination.What to See and Do at the Church of Saint John, MadabaThe church was built in a classic Roman basilica style with traditional columns topped with Corinthian capitals and connected by arches.Church of St. John Bell TowerIt has a free-standing bell tower in the church courtyard, and if you’re lucky you’ll visit when the tower’s three bells are rung. If you want stunning views across the surrounding landscape as far as the Dead Sea, go to the top of the church bell tower. But be prepared for a steep metal ladder up to the belfry where there is not much room to maneuver around the bells.Mosaic Church EntranceAs you enter the church you can’t miss the mosaic above the doorway that depicts John’s severed head. The entrance is adorned with semiprecious stones. Also, see the western windows where stained glass is used to illustrate scenes from St. John’s life.Acropolis Museum of St John’s Church MadabaGo beneath the church where there is the small Acropolis Museum and a 3000-year-old Moabite well that is still operational. The museum holds a replica of St. John’s severed head!Plan Your VisitOpening Times: 08:00-17:00 daily, and from 10:00 on Sundays. The church is closed to tourists during Mass and sometimes on SundaysPrices: FreeAverage Visit Duration: Plan to spend about an hour at the Madaba Baptist Church.Popular Visiting Times:If you manage to attend Sunday services, you’ll be treated to a performance by the church choir and organ music. You can find the church Mass times on the church’s Facebook page.St. John the Baptist Church at Madaba is close to Mount Nebo which is another famous pilgrimage site worth visiting. Madaba itself is only 30km from Amman, where you can find highly recommended attractions such as the Jordan Museum, the Amman Citadel, and the lovely Al-Balad downtown center.

Plan Your VisitOpen Times:08:00-17:00Prices: 3 JD, but if you are part of an organized tour, the entrance will be included in the tour price. Ajloun Castle is covered by the Jordan Pass.Average Visit Duration:You will need about an hour to explore Ajloun Castle.Popular Times: The castle has areas that are undercover and other areas that are out in the open so it is best not to visit during the hottest time of day. If you want the place to yourself, aim to get there early.Relevant Tours:The castle can be visited independently or you can join an organized Jordan tour from Israelto see more of the region's historical gems.Ajloun Castle (Qal’at ar-Rabad) rises from the pine forests of the Ajloun-Dibbine area in northern Jordan. The 12th-century hilltop structure was built by Muslim rulers to watch over the ancient trade routes that passed by. Ajleun Castle (Image source: Fabio Poggi CC BY 3.0)A small community grew around the castle, and today it is the town of Ajloun. And if you’re wondering about the name, Ajloun was the name of a Byzantine monk who lived on Mount Auf where the castle now stands.History of Ajloun CastleIn the Byzantine era (324-636AD) a monasterystood where the castle stands today. But very little remains of the monastery because in 1184 Izz al-Din Usama, one of Saladin’s generals (and his nephew) built a castle on the monastery ruins. The castle served an important purpose for the Ayyubids. As the castle overlooked the road between Damascus and Egypt the Ayyubids could control the comings and goings of Bedouins and Crusaders along this route. The Muslim castle was specifically built to protect north Jordanfrom the Crusaders who had already occupied the south and built massive castles including Kerak Castle and Showbak.The castle ruins (Image source:Adeeb Atwan CC BY 3.0)In the 13th century, the castle was enlarged by the Mamluk governor but it was no longer needed to guard the valleysbelow as the Crusaders had lost their hold on the region. So the castle was used as an administrative center.Conflict with the Mongols in 1260 left Ajloun Castle damaged but it was soon restored once the Mamluks beat their opponents. When the Ottomans arrived in the 16th-century soldiers were posted in the castle. And when Swiss explorer Johann Burckhardt traveled through Jordan he found the castle inhabited. Burckhardt was also responsible for rediscovering Lost City of Petra and Kerak Castle.Earthquakes in 1837 and 1927 left the structure in disrepair, and it lay abandoned until the Jordan Department of Antiquities began restoring the site.Pro Tip: If you’re a nature-lover visit the nearby Ajloun Forest Reserve. The ancient city of Jerash is a short drive from Ajloun Castle.What to See at Ajloun CastleAt Ajloun Castle you’ll see parts of the original structure as well as rebuilds that have happened over the years. Originally the castle had defensive walls with towers on each corner and a double gate that led into the fortified castle. A 16m-wide and 12-15m-deep moat surrounded the castle. Explore the chambers with their beautiful stone-brick walls and high vaulted ceilings. You can walk along the passageways and climb the towers.Museum of Ajloun CastleIn the ancient chambers of Castle Ajloun is a small museumthat teaches visitors about the site’s history through authentic artifacts, mosaics, and historic weapons.The AJleun Museum (Image source: D-Stanley CC BY 2.0)Pro Tip: While you're in the area visit Tal Mar Elias, an archaeological site just 11 minutes from the castle. And just 13 minutes away is Our Lady of the Mountain Church in Anjara. The church is built in a cave and is believed to be a place where Mary and Jesus stopped.Photo Ops at Ajloun CastleApart from some brilliant shots of the ancient structure with its towers and vaulted ceilings, the castle’s elevated location overlooking valleys and lush forests makes it an excellent place for taking panoramic photos of northern Jordan. Walk around the castle or climb one of the towers for views of the Jordan Valley and beyond.*Title Image source: D-Stanley CC BY 2.0; Top Image source:Adeeb Atwan CC BY 3.0

If you want to get a real understanding of Jordanian history and culture, don't miss the Jordan Museum in Amman; this is the kingdom's largest museum, dedicated to telling this land's amazing story through rare archaeological artifacts - some of which are over 9,000 years old. Even Tourists who are not big fans of museums will enjoy how this one links Jordan’s past, present, and future.About the Jordan Museum, AmmanThe museum was established in 2014 in a brand-new building in one of Amman’s most up-and-coming areas, Ras al-Ayn. Besides being a tourist attraction, the museum is a national center for learning for Amman’s residents and a great place to meet the local crowd.What to See and Do at Jordan MuseumThe museum includes thematic displays along with chronological exhibits - prehistoric, historical, Islamic period, classic period, and modern. The two must-see highlights of the Jordan Museum are the Ain Ghazal statues and the Dead Sea copper scroll.The Ain Ghazal StatuesThe 9,000-year-old Ain Ghazal statues are large figures made from lime plaster and reed. They were uncovered at Ain Ghazal in Jordan and are from the Pre-Pottery Neolithic C Period. There are 15 statues in all as well as 15 busts. They represent the earliest known statue of the human form and they really are lifelike. The faces are especially realistic. More of the Ain Ghazal statues are on display at the Jordan Archaeological Museum and Citadel, as well as the British Museum in London, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and the Louvre in Paris. But none of the other exhibition sites rival the statues on display here in terms of quantity and quality.The Dead Sea ScrollsThe Dead Sea Scrolls are a collection of scrolls from over 2,000 years ago that was discovered on the Israeli shore of the Dead Sea. Today most of the scrolls are on display in the Israel Museum’s Shrine of the Book. But the Jordan Museum is lucky enough to have the Copper Scroll. This unique scroll was the only one of the Dead Sea Scrolls not written on parchment or papyrus, but rather on metal. But it is not just the metal that makes this scroll unique. Instead of bearing passages from the Bible, this scroll has a list of places where gold and silver were hidden. You could say it is a treasure map from c.50-100 AD. Two separate sections of the original copper scroll are on display here.The LIving History GalleryLearn about Jordan’s rural, urban, and Bedouin lifestyles as well as cultural traditions, costumes, and utensils for preparing food. Outside on the museum grounds is a traditional Bedouin tent and you can also see reef village houses.The Modern Jordan GalleryThis part of the museum covers the period from the Great Arab Renaissance through to the establishment of the Kingdom of Jordan. There are displays illustrating the achievements of Jordan and the development of modern Jordan in different fields.The Archaeological and Historical GalleryThe largest part of the museum is dedicated to archaeological findings within the kingdom. It highlights the country’s history and culture from the prehistoric period to the Islamic Period. There are some impressive reconstructions of famous sites in Jordan and a range of interactive devices and video clips.Plan Your VisitOpening Hours: 09:00-16:00 on weekdays, 14:00-17:30 on Fridays, and Closed on Tuesdays.Prices: Entrance Fee is 5 JOD for tourists. Average Visit Duration: Plan to spend 2-3 hours at Jordan Museum.Special Events: The Jordan Museum hosts special art exhibitions from time to time.You can combine a visit to the Jordan Museum with a tour of the Amman Citadel and the Amman Roman Theater which are located nearby. Even if you are on a short tour from Israel to Petra, try to extend your stay in Jordan to include time in Amman and visit the wonderful Jordan Museum. A visit to Amman can be combined with a trip to Israel where you can see the rest of the Dead Sea Scrolls at the Israel Museum in Jerusalem.

Plan Your VisitOpening Times:The museum is open Sunday to Thursday from 10:00-19:00; Friday from 11:00-19:00, and Tuesday the museum is closed.Prices: The entrance fee is 3 JOD; We recommend taking the audio guide for 5 JOD to get the most out of the museum.Average Visit Duration:About 2 hours; most visitors tour the museum in chronological order to get a sense of the progression of history.Popular Times:The best time to visit the museum is in the early morning or late afternoon.Relevant Tours:You can combine a visit to the Royal Automobile Museum with a Jordan tour from Israel,The Royal Automobile Museum is located alongside the Al Hussein Public Park inAmman, Jordan. It holds an impressive collection of rare vehicles and motorcycles from Hussein bin Ali’s personal car collection.History of the Royal Automobile MuseumThe vehicles on display in this museum began arriving in Jordan as early as 1909. The museum was established by King Abdullah of Jordan in 2003 and was the first automobile museum in the region. Today it holds cars spanning from 1916 to the present day and served as a tribute to the late King Hussein.Luxury Cars in the Museum (Image source: Hosse CC BY-SA 3.0) The car collection tells the story of Jordan’s history together with the historic photos that form a backdrop for the cars. Through the cars, Jordan’s history can be traced back to the Great Arab Revolt, and tells a unique story of the country under the rule of His Majesty King Abdullah I in the 1920s, through King Hussein’s 47-year reign, and up to the present era of King Abdullah II.What to See at the Royal Automobile Museum, AmmanOn display are 80 cars and motorcycles from King Hussein's personal collection.The Martian Rover and Real-Life TroncycleSee the Rover used in The Martian, one of the Hollywood movies filmed in Wadi Rum. This propwas gifted to the country in thanks for their hospitality. The Museum also has a Neutron Motorcycle, a bike designed after the famous lightcycle from the movie TRON.The Neutron Bike (Image source:Ankur Panchbudhe CC BY 2.0The Packard Dual Cowl PhaetonThis stunning vehicle was specially built for King Faisal of Iraq in 1938. Faisal ascended the throne in the same year as King Husein in 1953 and was assassinated in 1958. The car was found in Lebanon in 1970 and exported to the US, before arriving in Jordan. It is the only vehicle of its kind in existence.Mercedes Benz 280GEThis car carried the casket of King Hussein during his funeral procession.

The Mujib River (also called the Arnon Stream) is a river that runs through Jordan and empties into the Dead Sea. The river runs for 70km, 4m of which flows through Wadi al-Mujib, the Mujib Gorge. Sections of this beautiful wadi have become popular tourist sites like the Mujib Biosphere - the lowest Nature Reserve in the world - that stands at the western end of the river. The river stretches from the Desert Highway to the Dead Sea, and the gorge has a 1km drop to the water below.History of Wadi al-MujibThe canyon was formed during the last ice age when the Dead Sea's water level was much higher than it is today. It flooded into the lower areas of the canyon and ran along the banks where sediment formed. As the climate changed over thousands of years, the water level of the Dead Sea dropped, but the river remained flowing through the canyon.The gorge was known as Aron Stream in the Bible and is mentioned as a borderline between the Moabites and the Amorites. This is also where Moses is believed to have led the Israelites on their journey into the Promised Land.In 1987 the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature created a 212km² reserve to help preserve the environment and indigenous birds. In 2011 the biosphere reserve was declared a UNESCO site.What to See and Do at Wadi al-MujibVisit the Biosphere ReserveThis wildlife reserve stretches from the Kerak mountains in the north to the Madaba mountains in the south and between the King’s Highway and the Dead Sea. The elevation within the reserve varies from 410m below sea level on the shore of the Dead Sea to 900m above sea level in some places.Seven tributaries flow through Wadi Mujib year-round, feeding natural springs and creeks, and creating magnificent biodiversity: Over 300 distinct species can be found here, including rare predators such as the Syrian Wolf and the Mountain Cat. Birdwatching fans will relish in the avian variety, which peaks during migration seasons. Pro Tip: The Biosphere Reserve is about 1.2 hours from Amman, so you can combine it with your visit to the city.Hike Through Wadi al MujibYou can take a wet hike along the river and see waterfalls and gorgeous scenery. There are several excellent hike trails of different lengths. The most popular route is along the Mujib Trail which covers 15km. For an easier course, try the Siq Trail which ends at a picturesque waterfall. Perhaps the most challenging trail through Wadi al Mujib is the Canyon Trail which starts at the Mujib Adventure Center and follows the Dead Sea Highway to the south. The route includes a descent through a 20m-high waterfall. The Ibex Trail is the only one available in the winter and takes hikers along the shore of the Dead Sea. Pro Tip: keep your Camera handy; animals just tend to pop by when you walk near the water. Canyoning, Abseiling, and ZipliningSeveral companies offer extreme sports activities in Wadi al-Mujib including canyoning and abseiling. For canyoning in Wadi al-Mujib, you should book a trek through Amman or Madaba. There is also a zipline in the Mujib Biosphere Reserve that is made up of two parallel cables so that two people can take the ride simultaneously. The Zipline travels for 100m along a slope of 9m extending from the Visitor Center. Ma’in Hot Spring ResortThis beautiful resort was created around a natural hot spring on the shore of the Dead Sea. It is located about 30km from the Jordanian city of Madaba - famous for the Madaba Map. Both locals and tourists love to relax at the Ma’in Hot Spring Resort and enjoy excellent restaurants, spa treatments, and pampering.Plan Your VisitOpening Hours:An open reservation; The Ibex Trail tour starts at 08:00.Prices: The Siq Trail (unguided) and the Ibex Trail (guided tour) cost 21 JOD each. Average Visit Duration: Plan to spend 2-4 Hours at Wadi al Mujib.Popular Times: Most of the reserve trails are open from April to October, but this site has lots to offer during winter as well. Either way, mornings are the best time to visit the reserve.When visiting the reserve you will need your passport or ID. To participate in the wet trails you must be over 18 years old.All trails through the Biosphere Reserve need to be booked in advance. Bookings can be made through the RSCN Wild Jordan office in Amman.Accommodation and refreshments are also available in the reserve.