Old City of Jerusalem
No visit to Israel will be complete without seeing the Old City of Jerusalem. Dating back several centuries ago, it houses the Temple Mount, the Western Wall, the Dome of the Rock and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, making it the ideal destination for those wanting to embark on Israel connection pilgrim tours. Historically, it was also the site of two Jewish temples, the first being destroyed after the Babylonian siege, while the Second Temple, which stood for a longer time, was similarly obliterated by the Romans centuries later.
The Old City also has several traditional markets and bazaars that you can visit, but simply walking around the streets and looking at the unique and beautiful architecture is a cultural experience in itself.
The Dead Sea
If you enjoy the water but aren’t the best swimmer, there’s no better place than the Dead Sea, a mineral-rich lake where you’ll float effortlessly. It is also said to have therapeutic properties, and it’s the location of one of the first health resorts in the world. There are many facilities nearby, too, for those who want to take a dip and spend some time in this natural wonder.
Timna Valley
Situated in southern Israel, Timna Valley has been an important spot for copper mining since the 5th millennium BCE. It is home to several unique geological features formed through wind and water erosion over many years. The Mushroom is one of the most emblematic, a giant red sandstone surrounded by smelting sites dating back to the 14th century BCE. Solomon’s Pillars are another one, formed by water chipping away at the sandstone hill, making them look like standalone pillars.
Monastery of Saint George of Choziba
This spectacular monastery is a cliff-hanging complex in the Wadi Qelt Valley. Greek Orthodox monks inhabit it. You’ll have to walk about one kilometer to reach the monastery but be prepared for the heat. You can also ride a donkey on the way in exchange for a fee. The monastery is open daily, except on Sundays and during certain holidays. There’s also a strict dress code upon entering, dictating that visitors must be dressed modestly.
Beit She’an
Located in the Northern District, Beit She’an is around 120 meters below sea level. It is one of the oldest cities in the country, and the ancient ruins of the old settlement are incredibly well-preserved. After the conquest of Pharaoh Thutmose III in the 15th century BCE, Beit She’an became the center of Egyptian administration in the area.
Walking through the ancient streets is a must for any history lover. Many of the relics uncovered at the site are currently in museums. Knowing the local language would also help in this instance, as you’ll be able to get a fuller picture of the cultural aspect of the landmark. Hebrew From Scratch is one of the best textbooks helping students take their first steps into studying this ancient, culturally-significant language.
When you visit Israel, you must be prepared for a soul-enriching experience that’ll also lead you to want to return the following year.
