The Galilee
In northern Israel, bordered to the east by the Jordan Valley, lies the hilly region of the Galilee — a land of Mediterranean character and timeless myth. For Christians, the Galilee resonates as the homeland of Jesus, with Nazareth as his town. There, you can visit the impressive Basilica of the Annunciation and explore beneath it the remains of an ancient village dating back to the time of Jesus. Equally compelling are the Galilean synagogues, remnants from thriving Jewish communities that flourished after the destruction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem by the Romans. As you drive down from the hills of the Galilee into the heart of the Jordan Valley — more than 200 meters below sea level — the view suddenly opens to reveal the turquoise waters of the Sea of Galilee, nestled within the Great Rift Valley. Here, you can visit many of the sacred sites mentioned in the Gospels: the Mount of Beatitudes, Capernaum, Magdala, and Kibbutz Ginosar, where a well-preserved boat from the time of Jesus is on display. You can even enjoy a memorable boat ride on the Sea of Galilee itself. And there’s more. If you're drawn to the era of the Kings of Israel, the archaeological site of biblical Megiddo (Armageddon) offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient times. For those interested in Jewish history, the necropolis of Beit She'arim — where Rabbi Yehuda HaNasi helped compile the Mishnah, the foundation of the Talmud — is a mysterious and moving site that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Key Sites: Galilee, Nazareth, Church of Annunciation, Capharnaum, Cana Wedding Church, Mount of Beatitudes, Beth Alpha Synagogue, Tzipori, Beth Shearim, Megiddo Armageddon, Jezreel Valley, Jordan River, Tabgha Church of the Multiplication, Jesus Boat
