Blessings to all that love Israel!
In this book, we have chosen to present 10 of the most beautiful locations in Israel, which we highly recommend that you visit. This includes current and detailed facts about the history of each place, as well as photographs and other useful information. With this book, you will become more familiar with the country even before you visit – and when you do get here, it will be that much easier to connect and to feel at home. For another high-quality content ebook, you can download “Jewish Recipes” free of charge from the following address: http:// unitedwithisrael.org/ebooks/recipes/index2.php In future, you’ll be able to download more great – and free – content ebooks from our links. For now, please pass on the link to this page and/or share this ebook with family and friends so that they, too, can enjoy learning about Israeli sites. We’re glad to be sharing!
Contents:
Experience Ein Gedi Jerusalem Biblical Zoo Masada Mountain Top Fortress The Dead Sea Herodium Mount Hermon Ramat Gan Safari The Kinneret The Western Wall The Tower of David
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Experience Ein Gedi
Where History, Hiking and Horticulture Meet!
Just west of the Dead Sea lies Ein Gedi ()ע ֵין גֶּדי, one of Israel’s most beautiful oases. The name Ein Gedi literally means “fountain of the goat,” combining the Hebrew and Arabic word for spring (ein) with the word for young goat or ibex (gedi in Hebrew and jadi in Arabic). As one might expect, the name Ein Gedi is derived from the wildlife that is traditionally drawn to the area’s refreshing water sources. Today, Ein Gedi’s natural beauty attracts visitors from every corner of the world.
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Ein Gedi in the Bible Ein Gedi’s rich history stretches back to biblical times and beyond. Indeed, a survey of the Bible reveals a number of references to Ein Gedi, as this site bore witness to several important events throughout the ages. One of the first appears in the Book of Genesis (14:7), where the area is referred to as Hazazon-tamar. In describing the conquest and settling of the Land of Israel by the Jewish people, the Book of Joshua (15:62) situates Ein Gedi as one of the cities belonging to the tribe of Judah. Later on, Ein Gedi plays a role in the fierce battle between Jehoshaphat, King of Judah, and the enemy nations of Moab and Ammon. (II Chronicles 20:2)
The Crossroads of Kings Ein Gedi also features prominently in the struggle between Kings David and Saul. By hiding in the desert surrounding Ein Gedi, David found refuge from Saul, who took 3,000 men to search for him “over the rocks of the wild goats” (I Samuel 24:1-3). In this episode, Ein Gedi served as the backdrop for a heartrending confrontation in which David opted not to slay Saul, proving that he was, in Saul’s own words, “more righteous than [Saul]” (I Samuel 24:18).
A Poetic Past The poetry of the Song of Songs also pays homage to Ein Gedi, referencing the henna flowers that adorn the area. According to the great Bible commentator Rashi, the blossoms of Ein Gedi (kopher) represent G-d’s infinite capacity for forgiveness through kapparah, or atonement (Song of Songs 1:14). Ein Gedi is also identified by name in the Book of Ezekiel (47:10).
Sweet Scents Evidence of Ein Gedi’s significance can also be found in major historical documents. According to the works of famous historian Josephus Flavius, Ein Gedi was the site of a major massacre during the time of the Roman siege on the Land of Israel. Ein Gedi was also a major source of scented plant products for the Greco-Roman world until Byzantine emperor Justinian destroyed the community as a part of his campaign to terrorize the Jews in his territories.
Farmers’ Find Fast forward to the last century and the establishment of the modern State of Israel, when pioneers established a collective living community (kibbutz) in the Ein Gedi area, focusing initially on fruit production and later on ecological research and education. In the 1960s, kibbutz workers made
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a major discovery when they uncovered the remains of a 1,500-year-old synagogue mosaic. The tiles included an enigmatic Judeo-Aramaic inscription alluding to the town’s “secret,” which many see as a reference to the unique resin-manufacturing methods pioneered by Ein Gedi townspeople. The mosaic remains a major tourist attraction.
Ein Gedi Nature Reserve In addition to its botanical garden, zoo and ecological park, Ein Gedi is best known for the vast nature reserve that was declared in 1971. As one of Israel’s most visited reserves, the park is conveniently located close to other major historical sites, such as the ancient military stronghold at Masada and the Qumran caves, in which a number of the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. Two spring-fed streams wind through the reserve year round, Nahal David and Nahal Arugot, in addition to the Shulamit and Ein Gedi springs. Remarkably, these springs generate three million cubic meters of water each year, some of which is sold as bottled water. The springs’ waters are also used for agriculture in the surrounding areas. These springs also provide refreshing pools of water for hikers navigating Ein Gedi’s labyrinthine trails. David’s Waterfall and its surrounding pools are a favorite for many, providing amazingly clear swimming holes in which to cool off. The reserve boasts nine hiking trails geared to various levels, ranging from half an hour to a full day.
Flora, Fauna, and Fun The reserve also serves as a sanctuary for a wide variety of plants and animals. In addition to the henna flowers mentioned in the Song of Songs, Ein Gedi is home to Mediterranean, tropical and desert plants, as well as poplar, Sodom apple, jujube and and acacia trees, among other species. Besides the resident birds at the reserve, more than 200 species flock to the area during spring and fall migration periods. Goats, rock hyraxes and Nubian ibexes are among the species that can be seen during hikes on the reserve’s grounds. For those seeking meaningful and memorable touring in the Land of Israel, Ein Gedi should be among the priority destinations. Whether hiking its trails, visiting its historical sites or stopping by for a swim in its springs, those who visit Ein Gedi are guaranteed an enjoyable and exciting time!
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Much More than Monkey Business Jerusalem Biblical Zoo Boasts World-Class Wildlife
The Tisch Family Zoological Gardens, or the Jerusalem Biblical Zoo, as it is commonly known, remains a must-see for animal lovers of all ages. Its founders created the zoo to present various species of wildlife discussed in the Bible as well as to breed endangered species whose very existence has been threatened in modern times. With over 50,000 members, the zoo frequently ranks as the top attraction in Israel. For most people, their first visit to the zoo marks the beginning of a lifelong connection to this incredible resource.
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From Humble Beginnings While the zoo covers 62 acres in its current incarnation in Jerusalem’s Malha neighborhood, it September 1940 in a private house. The zoo was the brainchild of famous academic and professor of zoology Aharon Shulov of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Mount Scopus. Shulov wanted not only to create a suitable facility in which his students could perform research; he also sought to break down barriers between academia’s ivory tower and the general public. To accomplish this, Shulov amassed a collection of reptiles, birds and animals mentioned in the Bible. Judging by the diverse crowds that enjoy the zoo today, which include Israelis of all ethnicities and religious backgrounds, in addition to tourists from around the world, Shulov surpassed his goals in every respect. Shulov began with a small animal corner in his tiny home in Jerusalem’s city center. The smells and noises emanating from his private zoo raised the ire of Shulov’s neighbors on Rav Kook Street as well as those living close by on Shmuel HaNavi Street, the slightly larger locale to which Shulov relocated for six years. By 1947 the zoo had amassed approximately 122 animals and found refuge at a plot that Hebrew University provided on Mount Scopus, where the zoo remained from 1947 until 1950. When Israel’s War of Independence broke out in 1948, the food shortage caused by the conflict forced zookeepers to hunt stray dogs to feed to the zoo’s carnivorous animals. Unfortunately, many of them perished or were released. After the war, the zoo relocated to the Romema neighborhood, where it remained for over 40 years. As had been the case in the War of Independence, the animals also suffered when Israel’s enemies attacked. During the Six Day War, for example, shrapnel and stray bullets took the lives of 110 animals. The zoo’s final move took the magnificent menagerie to the Malha neighborhood, where it opened its doors to guests in 1993. With over 2,200 animals in total, the zoo is home to approximately 104 bird species, 68 mammal species, 60 fish species, 28 reptile species and 11 amphibian species.
Don’t Fence Them In In keeping with the zoo’s animals-first ethos, its design eschews bars and cages and is built around open living areas surrounded by trenches, moats and windows. This design permits guests to get close to the animals and view them in naturalistic settings, while maintaining safe distances. Each area is constructed to resemble the natural habitats of the animals that reside there, such as the tropical rain forest and African savannah. In keeping with the zoo’s original vision, placards frequently include verses from the Bible in which the animals are specifically mentioned.
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The Bible and Beyond While the zoo was founded to house species specifically mentioned in the Bible, problems quickly arose with regard to this narrow focus. At the outset, sourcing many of these species was challenging; many of the animals were extinct. As a result, the zoo expanded its focus to include endangered species in general, the conservation of which became the zoo’s primary goal. As part of its conservation efforts, the zoo launched a hugely successful program through which it succeeded in breeding a number of endangered animals. Some of these animals were species mentioned in the Bible that gradually became extinct in Israel, such as the Asian lion, the cheetah and the Nile crocodile. A number of other endangered species have been nurtured at the zoo, such as the golden lion tamarin, the Asian elephant and several rare macaw species.
Conservation and Reintroduction The zoo’s conservation efforts culminated in the reintroduction to nature of species that had previously completely disappeared from this region. To date, the zoo’s programs have resulted in the reintroduction of 11 species, including two types of fallow deer, the Syrian brown bear and the addax, among others. The species that the zoo’s breeding colonies are rescuing from extinction also include the Negev tortoise, which is bred from artificially incubated eggs, and various breeds of raptors, whose eggs are cared for at the zoo’s National Center for Artificial Incubation of Raptor Eggs. The Griffon vulture is another endangered species that has benefited from the zoo’s research. Remarkably, the zoo successfully mated vultures with crippled wings, which ornithologists had previously believed would not be possible due to balance issues. The zoo facilitates a small, touching ceremony when birds are returned to the wild. These gatherings serve as platforms to honor the bravery of various Israelis, such as captured serviceman Ron Arad. In one of the most remarkable initiatives, the zoo revived a species of mammal called the Persian fallow deer. While conventional wisdom held that the species was already extinct, one remaining family of deer was located in Iran’s mountainous region and was sent to Israel on the last El Al flight to leave that country. This breed is among the animals specifically mentioned in the Bible. To their credit, zoo staff were able to breed the animals to a point at which it was safe to reintroduce them to the wild. Persian fallow deer now live in areas in northern Israel and the Jerusalem hills. The zoo’s attention to the environment also extends to the way its physical plant and facilities are run. The zoo takes responsibility for its own sewage system and irrigates its gardens with recycled water. A large-scale composting program is also in place through which natural waste is combined with other organic material to fertilize the zoological park’s plant life. The zoo even sells its organic compost to visitors.
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Animals Benefit from Torah Laws Feeding thousands of animals requires an inordinate amount of fruits and vegetables each day, the cost of which could cripple an institution as large as the Jerusalem Biblical Zoo. Fortunately, much of the animals’ food is provided free of charge through an arrangement designed to adhere to Torah law. Specifically, the Torah requires a portion of all fruit and vegetables to be separated and given to the priestly class, which in the time of the Holy Temple could enjoy the produce as they saw fit. After the Temple was destroyed, the rabbis decreed that the separated produce could no longer be used, requiring instead that it be separated and destroyed. Through an agreement arranged by Shulov and the local religious council, ownership of the zoo’s animals is technically assigned to a priest (kohen). Local fruit and vegetable producers donate their separated produce to this kohen, who provides it free of charge to the zoo’s animals. In this way, the zoo’s animals receive daily almost a ton of the best fruits and vegetables Israel has to offer.
Veterinary Medicine’s Cutting Edge The zoo’s breeding programs have blossomed into a variety of other initiatives that are helping push the boundaries of veterinary science. Close to 10 years ago, the zoo was able to breed its elephant Gabi using artificial insemination, with his birth being viewed by over 350,000 citizens of 108 countries via the zoo’s live stream. The zoo has also pioneered methods to prevent dangerous inbreeding of species as well as methods to care for newborn animals that may be ignored or endangered by their parents. In addition, the zoo serves as a first-class treatment center for wild animals injured in their native habitats. At the zoo’s animal medical center, experts perform surgery, treatment and research. Injured animals are nursed back to health in the medical facilities and then reintroduced to nature or placed in other zoos. In a recent example of the world-class care the zoo provides its animals, veterinarians observed that one of the zoo’s mandrills had lost an alarming amount of weight. After further tests, staffers determined that the sickly primate had actually developed Type 2 diabetes, a condition that develops when insufficient quantities of a hormone called insulin are produced, thus making it difficult for the body to digest food. Veterinarians altered the mandrill’s diet and even began giving him insulin injections, resulting in healthy weight gain and a return to wellness.
Child-friendly Adventures Await While the entire facility is geared toward families, the zoo also provides several areas specifically designed with children in mind. For example, there are a number of spots where children can 10 Best Places to Visit inb Israel
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enjoy direct contact with animals, such as Lemur Land, the interactive pool at the aquatic exhibit and the petting area, which includes pygmy goats, rabbits and sheep. The zoo’s motorized train is also a favorite with kids, as is the Noah’s Ark model. The zoo’s landscape also includes a beautiful play area with an animal-themed jungle gym and a sculpture garden with whimsical animal sculptures by French sculptor Niki de Saint Phalle. There are also 3-D animal films for children to view in one of the zoo’s theaters. The entire facility is wheelchair-accessible.
Learning Outside the Classroom While conservation and entertainment remain the zoo’s primary goals, the zoo is also dedicated to educating the public and raising awareness about important issues. The zoo also provides an environment in which Jews, Arabs and tourists from around the world can interact with each other in a positive context that encourages mutual understanding. The zoo also offers special programs for school groups in which children can interface with the animals in up-close-and-personal ways that impact them for a lifetime. In addition, the zoo operates a Zoomobile that brings animals to hospitals, schools and other locations. As any child or adult who has visited would attest, the Jerusalem Biblical Zoo brings the Bible to life in new and exciting ways.
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Masada The Mountaintop Fortress That Remains a Top Attraction
Few historical sites in the Land of Israel evoke the strong emotions that Masada ( )מצדהinspires in visitors of all ages. Literally translated as fortress or stronghold, Masada served as a critical military fortification overlooking the Dead Sea nearly 2,000 years ago. The fortress itself sits atop a mesa on the Judean Desert’s eastern edge, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding areas. Whether trekking up Masada’s winding ascent or surveying the desert landscape below, visitors leave the rocky plateau with memories that last a lifetime.
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Triple Threat With its hiking trails, historical tours and dynamic cultural offerings, Masada draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. While some choose to hike Masada’s famous snake path, others ride the cable car to the mountaintop, where much of the real action begins. In addition to the daily activities offered, Masada has a number of special events each year, such as light shows and concerts. One of Masada’s annual highlights is the opera festival held at the base of the steep ascent. Enthusiasts from around the globe flock to the Dead Sea to experience this one-of-a-kind musical production.
What Really Draws Visitors to Masada? While Masada’s aesthetic appeal is undeniable, its fascinating past and the tragic historical events that unfolded there are the real draw. Masada’s story begins in the time of King Herod, a turbulent period in Jewish history in which Rome controlled the lands that now constitute modern-day Israel. Political and religious life devolved into a general state of turmoil and Herod ruled the land in despotic ways, punctuated by brief flashes of concern for the Jewish nation. While the impact of his legacy remains the subject of debate, Herod was undeniably a prolific builder who constructed palaces and fortified military strongholds throughout the land, many of which were repurposed throughout the ages by various foreign powers. Masada represents the first fortress Herod fortified after he took the reins of the kingdom. Development of the fortress at Masada occurred during an approximately 20-year period through several stages, the first of which involved construction of the Western Palace, storerooms and barracks. During subsequent stages, other palaces were added, along with water cisterns, banquet halls and a swimming pool. Finally, the entire fortress was surrounded by a casemate wall to provide extra protection for this mountaintop stronghold. The remains of many of these 2,000-year-old structures can still be seen at Masada.
A Fight that Ended in Flames After Herod perished, Rome launched an all-out siege on the land to crush the Jewish insurgence that resisted Roman rule. The Romans’ path of destruction claimed the Holy Temple and the city of Jerusalem, which lay in ruins. One group of Jewish resistance fighters sought refuge in Herod’s old haunt atop Masada’s mesa, seeking to preserve the laws of the Torah and its mandates for the Jewish way of life. Eleazar ben Ya’ir helmed this 1,000-member community, who availed themselves of the infrastructure, water and food left there from Herod’s rule. Eventually, the Roman governor would tolerate the rebels’ activity no longer and laid siege to the
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fort at Masada with a force of approximately 15,000 men. Eleazar’s men fought tirelessly, but their Roman pursuers eventually constructed an assault ramp with which they were able to access the fortress’ walls and ultimately break them down using a battering ram. When breach of the final wall appeared imminent, Eleazar’s men opted to carry out a mass suicide rather than abandon the Torah and submit to the Romans’ sacrilegious ways. After burning the fortress to the ground, community members were left to carry out their gruesome charge. According to the record published by the Roman-Jewish historian Josephus, two women and five children survived and related these events. Josephus also recorded two stirring speeches delivered to the rebels, urging them to take their own lives. While Josephus provided the only contemporaneous account of this episode, modern historians claim that the archaeological record does not support the occurrence of a mass suicide, with the human remains found at the site numbering far less than 1,000. While the precise details of the events at Masada may never be known with complete certainty, the mystery surrounding this episode remains a source of great fascination for many people.
Window into the Past Masada was last occupied close to 1,500 years ago by a small church. Excavations in the 20th century, however, revealed that the arid environment had largely preserved the fortress’ remains. The attack ramp can still be seen and mounted on the western face, and many of the buildings’ features, such as wall paintings and bathhouses, have been restored. The fortress’ elaborate water system and huge cisterns, which served as a key source of survival for the Jewish rebels, can also be explored. Perhaps the greatest finds at Masada were unearthed in the rebel’s synagogue. Among the artifacts discovered there was a fragment of a utensil with an inscription referring to the priestly tithe (ma’aser cohen). Eleven similar fragments were found in front of other places, with each bearing a single name, one of which is perhaps an abbreviated version of the rebel leader Eleazar ben Ya’ir Segments of scrolls containing portions of the Bible were also discovered in the synagogue, bearing fragments from Deuteronomy 33–34 and Ezekiel 35–38. These sacred pieces of parchment had been hidden in a depression in the floor of a tiny room within the synagogue. Segments of other parts of the Bible from sections in the Books of Genesis, Leviticus, and Psalms were also located in other places at Masada. In addition to the aforementioned artifacts and structures, archaeologists discovered the skeletal remains of 28 people in total. These include the remains of a male in his early 20s, a teenage female and a child of approximately 12 years old, which were all found in one of the palaces. In the bathhouse, the remains of two other adult men were discovered, which some suggest were Roman soldiers captured by rebels. The remains of an additional 24 people were found in a cave 10 Best Places to Visit inb Israel
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at one of the cliff’s bases, which rabbinical authorities conclusively determined had belonged to Jewish rebels. These remains were provided a proper burial in a state ceremony in the late 1960s. Various textiles originating from the period of the rebellion, according to carbon dating, were also recovered on Masada. Other artifacts discovered include remnants of Roman soldiers’ belongings, including the bones of non-kosher animals that they may have used for animal sacrifices at the site.
Encouragement for Jewish Soldiers Throughout the 20th century, the Masada revolt remained an important theme in military sagas involving the Jewish people. During World War II, for example, the British devised a strategy called the Masada Plan to fight German forces that threatened to enter territories comprising modern-day Israel. The plan involved establishing defensive positions with Palmach squadrons, an elite Jewish fighting force that predated the establishment of the State of Israel. For years, Masada also served as the backdrop for Israeli Armored Corps soldiers’ swearing-in ceremonies at the conclusion of their basic training. Traditionally, the soldiers climbed the snake path at night and were sworn in by torch light. The ceremony culminated in the pronouncement, “Masada shall not fall again.” The ritual was established Moshe Dayan, a pioneer of the Israeli Defense Forces whose military career began in the British Mandate era at the age of 14. For anyone visiting the Land of Israel, Masada is an experience that should not be missed.
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The Dead Sea Loving Life at the Lowest Point on Earth
Known in Hebrew as the Sea of Salt (מלַח ה ֶּ י ָם ַ/ Yam HaMelach), the Dead Sea is actually a lake in Israel that separates the Holy Land from Jordan. A number of features make the Dead Sea a truly unique body of water. Not least of all the Dead Sea is the lowest point on earth, with its shores dipping to over 1,400 feet below sea level. Without question, the Dead Sea’s salinity remains its distinguishing feature, with salt levels creating an otherworldly experience.
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Super Spa Dating back to Biblical times, the Dead Sea served as a healthful retreat for kings and commoners alike. What continues to entice visitors and industry alike remains the incredibly intense concentration of salt in the Dead Sea, which boasts a salinity level of around 35 percent, which is about 10 times saltier than regular sea water. The water is so salty that bathers actually float, due to the fact that the human body is actually less dense than the water here. While the novelty of the Dead Sea’s physics never seems to wear off, the water can leave freshly shaven areas of the body and tiny cuts smarting. The Dead Sea’s natural minerals provide staple ingredients for a variety of products, from fertilizers to popular beauty lines and cosmetics. The key difference between the Dead Sea’s mineral composition and run-of-the-mill ocean water is the presence of sodium chloride, the levels of which are around 85 percent lower in the Dead Sea. Instead, the salt that is found in the Dead Sea consists of a number of other minerals with a variety of reported health benefits.
To Your Health The Dead Sea’s health benefits remain a major draw for visitors who flock to its shores for relief from conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and allergies. Bathers absorb the minerals by soaking in pools of Dead Sea water, the soothing and calming effects of which are often a boon in and of themselves. Many visitors also report anti-aging results and a major reduction in wrinkles. The Dead Sea’s mineral mud has even been credited with alleviating sore joints, among other positive effects. The dazzling hues that reflect off the Dead Sea’s waters frequently remain emblazoned in visitors’ minds, as the lake changes colors depending on the position and elevation of the sun. Indeed, the Dead Sea may appear blue, green, teal and even pink. The scent surrounding this body of water is also unique, albeit less pleasant than the colors it reflects. Many visitors notice a strong sulfuric aroma that resembles rotten eggs, which actually emanates from hot springs that line the roads along the way to the Dead Sea.
The Dead Sea in the Bible The Dead Sea is not only a magnificent modern day destination, it is also a significant locale in the Bible. Excavations of the area reveal that the region served as home to a society identified in the Bible as Sodom and its surrounding cities. As described in the Book of Genesis, the people of Sodom devolved into a depraved society lacking any redeeming qualities. Despite the prayers of Avraham on their behalf, the Sodomites could not be saved and G-d resolved to destroy the area
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and its inhabitants, turning the region into a salty desert. Eventually, the Jordan River’s waters pooled there, forming the waters of the Dead Sea. In addition to the reference to this region in the Five Books of Moses, the Dead Sea is also mentioned at various other points in the Bible. For instance, King David hides in the area when King Saul is pursuing him. Similarly, the prophet Ezekiel relates that the Dead Sea will eventually be transformed into a body of sweet water from which fishermen will harvest nets full of fish.
The Bluest Dye The Dead Sea has also been the site of major archaeological discoveries of late. Most recently, a 2,000-year-old garment was discovered that had been dyed a special shade of blue (techelet), which is the same color required by Jewish ritual law for traditional prayer fringes (tzitzit). According to the Torah, tzitzit must be tied on all four-cornered garments, which Jewish men specifically purchase to fulfill this commandment. After the Roman period, the method for making techelet dye was lost, and Jews were resigned to wearing undyed, white tzitzit. This discovery comes 100 years after former Chief Rabbi of Israel Yitzchak HaLevi Herzog published his doctorate on the subject of techelet, which helped facilitate a rebirth in attempts to reintroduce ancient dying techniques. With the discovery of Murex snails (chilazon) at ancient dying sites in the area, rabbis and scientists were able to hypothesize that this animal provided the necessary ingredients for the biblical-era dye. With the discovery of an actual piece of fabric from that era, experts now believe they have definitively proven that chilazon-based dying techniques correctly reproduce the shade required by Torah law. This represents a major breakthrough for Jews who seek to fulfill the Bible’s commandments in the most complete and accurate manner possible.
Israel’s Future The Dead Sea not only sheds light on the Jewish people’s ancient past; it is also in many respects a key component of Israel’s bright future. Currently, plans are in the works to link the Dead Sea to the Red Sea via a pipeline that should produce millions of cubic meters of drinking water. The project is a joint initiative between Israel, Jordan and the Palestinian Authority, facilitated by the World Bank. The output from the pipeline would not only supply vacation destination Eilat with much-needed drinking water; it also could serve as a harbinger for greater cooperation with Israel’s neighbors.
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Herodium An Acropolis for the Ages Few historical figures from the era of Roman rule over the Land of Israel remain as controversial as King Herod. As the descendant of forced converts to Judaism, King Herod’s motives, legacy and impact on history remain shrouded in mystery to this day. Herod was reared in Rome and counted the sons of Caesar as childhood friends. Deemed both a genius and a schizophrenic, Herod was eventually appointed king over Judea, which he ruled with an iron fist. Herod’s mercilessness and brutality spared few victims, with his own family members and bodyguards faring no better than sworn enemies. A wife and several sons were among Herod’s victims, one of whom he killed just five days before his own death. Among Herod’s accomplishments were the massive building campaigns for which he is frequently remembered. These included a major renovation of the Holy Temple and the construction of several palaces, the most spectacular of which bore his name, Herodium. This palace represents a masterwork of architecture and design that has stood the test of time. Thanks in large part to the excavation and archaeological work of Professor Ehud Netzer of the Hebrew University, modern visitors to Herodium can get a glimpse at royal life in the Holy Land at the turn of the Common Era.
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Man-Made Mountain Nestled in the Judean desert, Herodium sits about seven and half miles south of Jerusalem and a little over three miles from Bethlehem. To build his namesake palace, Herod directed a massive team of slaves, contractors and architects who constructed the massive fortress by building a seven-story-high double wall against which earth was piled up to create a man-made mountain. Within this massive mound, the royal palace and all its accoutrements were built. At the foot of the mountain, Herod stationed a large pool and bathhouse, creating what some called a royal country club. The palace relied on an intricate system of cisterns to collect water, which was diverted to the palace via a series of channels. A teeming city sprouted up in the surrounding plain.
A Palace Fit for a King The palace itself appears to have spared no luxury, with mosaic floors and ornate frescoes depicting landscapes of foreign lands such as Italy and Egypt. One of the palace’s primary features was a state-of-the-art Roman bathhouse divided into three areas, with a large dome that has survived thousands of years of wars and earthquakes, as well as the ravages of time. The complex also housed a Roman theatre complete with a loggia so that Herod and other dignitaries could receive VIP treatment.
Requisition by Rebel Forces King Herod eventually met his demise, which was followed by a massive rebellion by the Jewish population against their Roman oppressors. Popularly known as the Bar Kochba Revolt after its primary leader Shimon bar Kochba, the period involved intense resistance during which Jewish forces took control of Herodium, building a synagogue on the premises which can still be toured today. As one of the oldest houses of worship in the region, the synagogue was built in the Galilee style with stone benches against the walls and stone columns supporting the roof. Bar Kochba eventually designated Herodium as his secondary headquarters, and overwhelming evidence of his forces’ presence there was discovered during modern excavations. The rebels had apparently developed a system of caves in the water system and external buildings to which they could retreat when necessary.
Herod’s Tomb? The precise location of Herod’s Tomb remained unknown for centuries, with adventurers and scholars from Israel, France, Rome and America searching the premises but coming up with no
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hard evidence. Several investigators pinpointed locations that turned out to be far from the actual site of the tomb. In perhaps his greatest find, Professor Netzer discovered what he believed was the tomb of Herod on a flattened plateau midway up the east side of Herodium’s security hill. The base of the site was revealed and opened to visitors prior to Netzer’s death in 2010. Herod himself apparently oversaw the creation of his own mausoleum and ultimately increased the mountain’s height in a final act of self-aggrandizement. It appears that his goal was to turn the entire mountain into a monument to his life. What Netzer discovered was hundreds of red limestone fragments with rosette designs that were de rigueur at the time of Herod’s death. The extent to which the sarcophagus had been fragmented indicated that the tomb had been smashed on purpose, which seems unsurprising in light of the sentiment in the nation towards this despotic ruler. Several of Netzer’s colleagues are not convinced that this site is in fact Herod’s tomb. Not least of all, they maintain the sarcophagus is not ornate or lavish enough to match Herod’s well-documented megalomania. They also maintain that the location makes historical accounts of the funeral procession logistically impossible. The fact remains, however, that the world’s foremost archaeological expert on Herod definitively identified the tomb as belonging to Herod.
Future Excavation While Netzer oversaw the excavation of large portions of the premises, it appears that much of the palace has yet to be exhumed. Other archaeologists are eager to search for more mosaics and frescoes, which must be painstakingly unearthed to avoid any additional damage. In its current state, Herodium still presents a tremendous opportunity for visitors to get a peek at a well-preserved fortress and palace from the dawn of the Common Era.
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Hermon’s Holy Heights A Major Draw Any Time of the Year
erched on Israel’s northern border sits a cluster of three summits known collectively as Mount Hermon. As the highest point in Israel, Mount Hermon rises 9,232 feet above sea level at its peak. Celebrated as one of the few places in Israel that regularly experiences snowfall, Mount Hermon remains a popular destination for native Israelis as well as tourists from all over the world. For visitors, Mount Hermon provides a variety of recreational activities, making it a surefire destination for family fun in any season.
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Hit the Slopes in the Holy Land According to most estimates, Mount Hermon hosts several hundred thousand visitors during the winter season. Skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts can enjoy the winter resort on Mount Hermon’s lower slope, which include trails for a variety of skill levels. The winter action doesn’t end there, with Mount Hermon offering cable car rides and snow sledding, among other activities. Many visitors also enjoy the amazing views on Mount Hermon’s HaMa’apil summit, from which the Golan, the Galilee and southern Lebanon can be seen.
What’s in a Name? The summer months also provide a host of activities at Mount Hermon. While visitors may take advantage of the plethora of guided tours offered, Hermon’s hiking paths are some of the most majestic trails Israel has to offer. Among Hermon’s most beautiful trails are those a slight distance from higher traffic destinations. Other nearby year-round destinations include the Banias, the Saar Waterfall and Stream and Nimrod’s Fortress, a 13th-century stronghold described by Mark Twain as “one of the finest ruins of its kind in the world.” While Nimrod’s Fortress has no apparent connection to the scriptural figure from whom its moniker is taken, there are a number of prominent references to the region in the Bible. In the Five Books of Moses, Mount Hermon is described as one of the borders circumscribing the land seized from the two Amorite kings. Similarly, in the Book of Joshua, Mount Hermon serves as a landmark defining the territory given to the various tribes of Israel. In yet another reference in Chronicles I, Mount Hermon is identified as the outer limit of the tribe of Manasseh.
Tactical Advantages Affectionately termed the “Eyes of the State” due to the strategic advantages it provided in the Yom Kippur War, Mount Hermon continues to serve as a key military outpost for the Israel Defense Force’s Northern Command. The location also represents the United Nation’s highest permanent manned position on the globe. One group of particularly highly trained fighters that operates in the region is the IDF’s Alpine Unit, which uses a specialized cache of equipment and weapons to secure Israel’s northern border. The Alpine Unit’s soldiers rely on skis, sleds, and snowmobiles to traverse the wintery terrain. Remarkably, these soldiers are capable of firing their weapons and reloading while skiing. GPS systems permit Alpine Unit forces to maintain communications, as do specially designed headphones that block wind noise. To battle the climate, troops rely on special footwear and synthetic fur, seeking refuge in snow caves when temperatures require retreat from the elements.
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From Sand to Snow In just a few hours, explorers in Israel can travel from desert climes to wintery play lands. Whether viewed off in the distance or explored up close and personal, Mount Hermon’s snowy peaks present yet another facet of Israel’s unsurpassed natural beauty.
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Ramat Gan Safari Let the Journey Begin!
Combining a drive-through African safari area with a massive outdoor zoo, the 250-acre Zoological Center Tel Aviv-Ramat Gan (Safari Ramat Gan) is home to diverse wildlife in exquisite natural habitats. If you are excited by the thought of seeing giraffes and lions merely inches away – from behind the window of your vehicle, of course – then a visit to Safari Ramat Gan would be perfect for you. With over 600 species of mammals, birds and reptiles, Safari Ramat Gan attracts more than 700,000 guests every year. In its fourth decade of operation, the park keeps visitors coming back, year after year.
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Elephants, Rhinos, and Hippos, Oh My! The word “safari” means journey in Swahili and that is exactly what visitors can expect when they arrive at Safari Ramat Gan, the Middle East’s largest wildlife collection in human care. Among the animals on display are a large number of African and Asian elephants, many of whom were actually born at the park. Indeed, Safari Ramat Gan has an internationally renowned breeding program with 14 Asian elephants and 21 African elephants born in the park to date. Hippopotamuses and rhinoceroses are among the other popular wildlife living at Safari Ramat Gan. At its height, the hippo herd reached 40 animals, providing visitors an unparalleled opportunity to watch these huge creatures in action. White rhinos also roam the park, which has served as the birthplace of 17 surviving calves.
Unique Animal Behavior on Display Safari Ramat Gan gives visitors one-of-a-kind opportunities to watch animals engage in unique behavior that they may not see at any other zoological park in the world. Take, for instance, the park’s African lions, who actually climb the trees in their habitat. While lions in the wild rarely do this, the park’s pride began scaling saplings after a few of the younger lions discovered the amazing views of other wildlife in the park, including the giraffes and rhinos that live nearby. Zoo officials attribute this conduct to the park’s layout, which permits the lions to meander around the premises far more freely than at other, similar facilities.
Emergency Care for Animals The safari provides much more than mere entertainment, as the park also runs a wildlife hospital treating critically wounded animals from around the region. Migratory birds, which routinely pass through Israel on their annual treks, are among the distinct populations that benefit from the hospital. While birdwatchers look forward to these visits, local farmers are often less than thrilled with the birds’ impact on their crops and fish. When farmers shoot the birds with lead pellets, their injuries may land them at the wildlife hospital, where the caring staff nurses them back to health. Recently, the hospital tended to a badly wounded pelican, one of more than 2,200 animals treated there each year. Unfortunately, most of the animals cared for at the hospital were injured by humans. Relying on the latest in veterinarian technology, the hospital is able to return over 60 percent of its charges to the wild.
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Special Programs Safari Ramat Gan also operates a training and enrichment department to help animals participate in their own care. The program helps to reduce social stress in creatures such as chimpanzees by teaching healthy behavior, which improves their quality of life while making them better subjects for visitors to the park. This type of innovation is at the core of the experience the park offers its guests.
Spend the Day Safari Ramat Gan provides hours of fun for children and adults alike, with unparalleled opportunities to interface with African and Asian wildlife. Whether watching zebras gallop across the savannah or orangutans swing from the trees, Safari Ramat Gan is the place in the Middle East to witness the wonders of nature in a zoological park setting.
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The Kinneret Israel’s Great Lake
With shores starting at 705 feet below sea level, the Kinneret (Sea of Galilee) is not only the largest freshwater lake in Israel; it is also the lowest freshwater lake in the world. Located in northeast Israel just south of the Golan Heights, the Kinneret remains a popular destination for travelers in the Holy Land. The Kinneret also nurtures a fishing industry and serves as one of the nation’s most precious natural resources.
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Birth Place of the Oral Torah Mentioned several times in the Bible, the Kinneret has served as an important source of water for the Jewish people for thousands of years, as well as a key landmark delineating the nation’s borders. One of the most important chapters in the area’s rich history occurred following the Roman expulsion of Jews from the holy city of Jerusalem, when many sought refuge in Tiberias. In this community, which sits on the western shore of the lake, a group of the era’s greatest sages gathered and compiled the Jerusalem Talmud, one of the central components of Jewish doctrine.
Resting Place of Giants To this day, one can visit the graves of some of the greatest spiritual leaders and scholars of all time, many of which sit not far from the banks of the lake. In the Jewish tradition, there is a special power associated with praying to G-d at the graves of very righteous individuals, and this region provides wonderful opportunities for spiritual elevation. On the shores of the lake lie the tombs of Talmudic giants such as Rabbi Akiva, Rabbi Yochanan ben Zakkai and Rabbi Meir Baal HaNes, all of whom played major roles in Jewish history and the codification of Torah law. In the center of Tiberias sits the tomb of the Rambam (Rabbi Moshe ben Maimon), also known as Maimonides, who is recognized as one of the greatest philosophers of all time. Born in the 12th century, the Rambam earned great acclaim not only for codifying Jewish law and authoring incredibly complex philosophical works, but also for his accomplishments as a physician. Not far away is the tomb of the Shelah HaKodesh (Rabbi Isaiah Horovitz), one of the great precursors of the Chasidic movement.
Alive and Well As the graves attest, there has been a continuous Jewish presence in this area for thousands of As the graves attest, there has been a continuous Jewish presence in this area for thousands of years. When Jews began to return to the Land of Israel in large numbers in the late 1800s, the region served as home to some of the first agricultural endeavors attempted by the new pilgrims. Tiberias is now a delightful city on the shores of the lake, with beautiful beaches and recreation areas to accommodate all types of visitors. The Kinneret also hosts a number of special events each year. Every September, the Kinneret Crossing open water swim race – or Speedo Sea of Galilee Swim, as it is now known – attracts competitors from across the globe. Another fun event is Rafsodia, which involves raft-building
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contests and culminates in immediate maiden voyages for the handmade crafts. Fishing and sailing are other popular activities on the Kinneret.
Regional Water Supply The Kinneret flows from a number of sources, including the Jordan River, underground springs and other sources in Israel’s Golan Heights. The lake feeds Israel’s National Water Carrier, which has been moving most of the nation’s drinking water from northern Israel to population centers for close to 50 years. Each year around 400,000,000 cubic meters of water is pumped for Israel, with another 50,000,000 cubic meters redirected to Jordan under the terms of the Israel-Jordan peace treaty. In the recent past, higher demands and dry winters have caused water levels in the Kinneret to drop precipitously, seriously threatening the region’s water supply. The primary danger is salinization from the salt water springs under the lake, which are held at bay by the freshwater that rests on top of them. During the past few years, water levels have begun to climb again thanks in part to new desalination technology.
Conical Structure One of the most fascinating discoveries in the area in recent years was a massive conical structure on the lake’s floor. The structure appears to be constructed of unhewn basalt boulders and cobbles, weighing about 60,000 tons in total and rising up about 32 feet in height. Archaeologists from the Israel Antiquities Authority and Ben-Gurion University believe the structure dates back 4,000 years and belonged to a community called Bet Yerah that was established in this area.
Sea to Sea Trail One of the most popular multi-day hikes in Israel takes backpackers from the Sea of Galilee to the Mediterranean Sea. Most hikers spread the trek out across three or four days, stopping at other popular sights along the way, such as the city of Tzfat and Mount Meron. In total, hikers cover about 55 miles (89 kilometers) and can spend the night at free camping sites or inexpensive cabins. Whether visiting the graves of holy sages, taking a dip in the lake or enjoying the camp sites on the shores of the Kinneret, the Sea of Galilee remains one of Israel’s treasures of the north.
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The Western Wall In the Shadow of the Holy Temple
For millions of people throughout the world, the Temple Mount in Jerusalem stands as the holiest site on earth. According to the Bible, this place is home to the Foundation Stone, which served as the location for many seminal moments in history, including the creation of human beings (Adam), the binding of Isaac by Abraham and Jacob’s dream of a ladder climbing into the heavens. Later on, the Mount housed the Holy Temples, to which the nations of the world flocked for over 800 years to pray and offer sacrifices to the One Above. While the Holy Temple may be gone, one last physical vestige of this awesome edifice remains. Known as the Western Wall, the Kotel (wall in Hebrew) is a remnant of the structure that surrounded the Holy Temple. With the exception of the Temple Mount itself, the Kotel is recognized as the Jewish People’s holiest site. To this day, members of all faiths visit the location to offer prayers and supplications.
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Make a Sanctuary for Me Among the commandments that G-d gave the Jewish people in the Bible was the directive to build a sanctuary in which to serve Him. The Holy Temple was thereby designated as the place to offer sacrifices, to ignite the eternal flame, to intone prayers and to celebrate festivals. King Solomon oversaw construction of the first Holy Temple, which was completed in approximately 950 BCE, according to the Divine design communicated to his father, King David. The first Holy Temple was the most glorious place on earth, serving as the spiritual epicenter for all nations. The Temple provided a physical location in which the Divine Presence (Shekinah) could dwell, creating an unparalleled opportunity for closeness to G-d. Through this physical edifice and the holy service that was performed within it, people were able to cleave to their Maker in a special way. After more than 400 years, the Temple was destroyed via the Babylonians, who drove the Jewish nation into exile. More than 50 years after the destruction, the Temple service was reinstituted by a small group of Jews who returned to the Holy Land. This paved the way for construction of the Second Temple, which stood for close to 400 years until it, too, was destroyed through the hands of Roman invaders.
A Constant Reminder Despite the destruction, the western retaining wall of the Temple Mount remained, providing a landmark for the Jewish people at which to mourn the loss of the beloved House of G-d. Symbolizing the deep anguish Jews feel at having lost the Temple, there is a custom to tear one’s garment when the Temple Mount comes into view, provided it has been 30 days since the previous visit. The Kotel also reminds Jews that they are awaiting the building of the Third and Final Holy Temple.
Much More than Mourning The Kotel is recognized as an extremely auspicious place to pray, since many believe that the holiness of the Temple remains at this site with the Divine Presence resting upon the Western Wall. According to other opinions, the power of thousands of years of prayer in this single location has added to its sanctity. Wherever they may be, Jews pray facing the Holy of Holies, which was a location in the Holy Temple just behind the Western Wall. Each year, people travel from all corners of the earth to pray at the Kotel. Some people even have
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the custom to pray at this site for 40 days in a row, through which they hope to merit an answer to their prayers for health, finding marriage partners or being blessed with righteous children, among other requests. Each year, people travel from all corners of the earth to pray at the Kotel. Some people even have the custom to pray at this site for 40 days in a row, through which they hope to merit an answer to their prayers for health, finding marriage partners, or being blessed with righteous children, among other requests.
Liberating Judaism’s Holiest Site Prior to the establishment of the State of Israel, Jews had limited access to the Western Wall and were prohibited from gathering there in large numbers by the presence of various occupying forces throughout the ages. Even after Israel’s War of Independence the area surrounding the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, a walled section called the Old City, remained controlled by Jordanian forces. During the 1967 Six-Day War, the Jewish people finally regained control of the Western Wall during a valiant battle. Just in time for the festival of Shavuot, the Jews were able to return to the Kotel and pray at G-d’s great Gate of Mercy. Eventually, the area in front of the Kotel was transformed into a grand plaza capable of accommodating over 400,000 visitors. In addition to daily prayer at all hours, the Kotel hosts a variety of special occasions. For example, it is customary for boys to travel from all over the world to celebrate their bar mitzvahs at the Kotel, a rite of passage in which Jewish males are called up to the Torah scroll, giving them the legal status of adults according to religious law. The Kotel’s plaza is also a popular place for prayer on all of the Jewish festivals, when tens of thousands of Jews descend upon the area. The fast day of Tisha B’Av is a particularly popular time for prayer at the wall, as this is the day on which Jews mark the destruction of the Temple. Israelis also fill the plaza on Jerusalem Day, when the nation commemorates the 1967 reunification of Jerusalem and the return of the Kotel to the Jewish people.
Prayer Notes One of the most common customs for visitors of all faiths is the insertion of prayer notes into the Kotel’s crevices. On these notes, guests inscribe requests, give thanks for blessings and express their deepest emotions and sentiments to the Creator. Each year, more than a million notes are inserted into the Wall’s cracks. Some organizations even accept notes via email, which they print out and insert into the Kotel. Generally, visiting dignitaries find time for this practice.
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Tunnels and Tours After two decades of work by teams of archaeologists and other dedicated workers, guests can now explore extended tunnels running the length of the Western Wall. These tunnels extend far past the portions of the Wall that are exposed on the plaza, stretching out over a quarter of a mile past the plaza. Visitors can enjoy guided tours in which they witness layer after layer of the Wall, through which they get a glimpse at life in Jerusalem throughout the centuries. Another popular nearby attraction is the City of David, which lies due south of the Western Wall. In this area, King David located his palace and established Jerusalem as the capital of the Jewish kingdom approximately 3,000 years ago. Among the sights on display in the City of David are a structure from the period of the Judean kings, remnants of homes from biblical times and various components of the Gihon Spring. Remarkably, this underground water system was in use beginning in Abraham’s time. Visitors can view the ruins above ground, as well as venture on a flashlight-lit trek through tunnels in which cool water still flows.
First Stop in the Holy Land Upon landing in Israel, many visitors head straight to the Kotel to pray, even before dropping off their luggage at their final destination. For some, communing here with the One Above is a powerful experience that proves to be life-changing. For others, the historical nature of the site provides hours of enjoyment. Regardless of one’s nationality, background or religion, a trip to the Western Wall leaves an indelible imprint that lasts a lifetime.
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A Citadel by Any Other Name
Ancient History Comes Alive at the Tower of David
To many, Jerusalem’s Old City remains the spiritual capital of the world. While its significance is rooted in the Biblical Era, the Old City is also home to a modern day community built on the ruins of over 3,000 years of civilization. Huge stone walls wrap around the Old City, providing a reminder of the fortifications defenders used to protect this precious area throughout the ages. Most sections of the current walls were actually built by the Ottoman sultan Suleiman the Magnificent in the 16th century. Hearkening back to biblical times, a series of impressive gates were the access points through which visitors entered the Old City. While the original structures may be long gone, some vestiges of these gates exist at various points in the Old City. One of the primary entry points is Jaffa Gate, which sits at the western side of the Old City. Waiting for visitors just beyond Jaffa Gate is the Tower of David, a military citadel that dates back over 2,200 years.
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History Jewish kings in the centuries leading up to the Common Era were the first to build military fortifications in this location, with monarchs from the Hasmonean dynasty surrounding the entire area with a wall and watchtowers. Later, King Herod expanded the citadel, building additional towers. Successive invaders from Europe and the Arab lands later took control of the fortification. The last major overhaul of the site was undertaken by Ottoman forces in the 1500s who built a mosque there, the minaret of which stands to this day.
What’s in a Name? The citadel’s name is itself misleading, as the site is not historically associated with King David, whose palace was a short distance from the Tower of David’s current location. The association with King David resulted from Byzantine Christians’ erroneous belief that they had found the ruins of King David’s abode. The title Tower of David was eventually accepted during the Ottoman Era, a moniker that actually alludes to the disused minaret that continues to protrude from the site.
Cultural Gem The Tower of David is now home to one of Israel’s foremost museums, which takes up several medieval era halls and presents over 4,000 years of the area’s history. The exhibition halls and galleries surround a magnificent courtyard dotted by stone walls and archways. To present the various epochs in Jerusalem’s illustrious history, the museum relies on maps, holograms and videos. In the basement, visitors can view a large model of Jerusalem as it appeared in the 19th century. In the museum’s entrance hall, a chandelier created by famous glass artist Dale Chihuly hangs from the ceiling. To date, millions of visitors have enjoyed the Tower of David Museum.
Truly Spectacular The evening is perhaps the best time to visit the Tower of David, which presents an amazing multimedia production known as the “Night Spectacular” once the sun goes down. The show includes giant projections on the massive stone walls of the citadel’s courtyards, which tell Jerusalem’s story in a series of moving artistic vignettes. The show is set to a score by French composer Etienne Perruchon, which reaches a crashing climax that is not be missed. The production relies on 20 projectors in two projection rooms to provide a family-friendly event with state-of-the-art technology that holds the attention of viewers of all types.
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Ramparts Walk Visitors seeking a more active experience can climb up to the Ramparts Walk, which begins at the Tower of David and snakes around the environs on top of the Old City’s walls. The views of Jerusalem from these stone catwalks are unparalleled, providing peeks into the Jewish, Christian, Armenian, and Muslim quarters of the Old City. As the promenade descends, breathtaking glimpses of the Temple Mount come into view.
Where It All Begins Due to the wealth of historical information visitors can find there, as well as its location at the entrance to the Old City, the Tower of David is the perfect starting point for Holy Land explorers. After getting a broad survey of the region’s history, visitors can make their way to the Western Wall, the City of David and Mount Zion, among other locales.
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